
Eastbridge Hospital
A medieval religious hospital dating from 1190, offering a unique glimpse into pilgrim life with Gothic archways and a rare 13th-century mural.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Eastbridge Hospital
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval religious hospital dating from 1190, offering a unique glimpse into pilgrim life with Gothic archways and a rare 13th-century mural.
"Wonderful place with a rich history. Absolutely worth it to take a look inside."

🎯 Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour to uncover the hospital's fascinating history and stories.
💰 Joint Ticket Savings
Save money by purchasing a joint ticket with the Franciscan Gardens next door.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Pilgrim Rooms
Upper floors
Experience where pilgrims rested centuries ago. Feel the history in these remarkably preserved rooms.
13th-Century Mural
Chapel area
Marvel at a rare surviving mural, offering a vibrant splash of medieval art and history.
River Stour Underneath
Lower level viewing area
See the River Stour flowing beneath the hospital through a glass floor – a unique medieval engineering feat.
Gothic Archways
Exterior and interior
Admire the striking Gothic architecture, a testament to the hospital's enduring medieval design.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour to uncover the hospital's fascinating history and stories.
💰 Joint Ticket Savings
Save money by purchasing a joint ticket with the Franciscan Gardens next door.
🚶♀️ Walk in Pilgrim's Footsteps
Imagine medieval pilgrims staying here; the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and spiritual.
👀 See the River Flow
Don't miss the unique view of the River Stour flowing beneath the building through the glass floor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour to uncover the hospital's fascinating history and stories.
💰 Joint Ticket Savings
Save money by purchasing a joint ticket with the Franciscan Gardens next door.
🚶♀️ Walk in Pilgrim's Footsteps
Imagine medieval pilgrims staying here; the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and spiritual.
👀 See the River Flow
Don't miss the unique view of the River Stour flowing beneath the building through the glass floor.
⛪ Near Canterbury Cathedral
Easily accessible after visiting the Cathedral, making it a perfect addition to your Canterbury itinerary.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Eastbridge Hospital for its profound sense of peace, rich history, and unique architectural features like the river flowing beneath. The guided tours are highly recommended for bringing the stories of medieval pilgrims to life. Some find the experience more meaningful when combined with the adjacent Franciscan Gardens.
"We were able to stay in the Yeomans apartment in the Hospital and it was wonderful to walk, pray and stay where pilgrims walked, prayed and stayed in medieval times. The building is so quiet and peaceful one feels the presence of God very strongly."
Andy Sheppard
"Beautiful medieval building with great guided tour from Perry followed by a visit to the Franciscan gardens next door. Wonderful afternoon in Canterbury"
Jan Andrews
"This is an ancient hospital where pilgrims used to stay when visiting Canterbury. It also has an area of glass floor where you can see the river and even boats going underneath.
You can get a joint ticket with the neighboring gardens to save money."
Karen B
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eastbridge Hospital is conveniently located in Canterbury, just a short walk from Canterbury Cathedral. You can easily reach it on foot from the city center. If arriving by train, the Canterbury East station is closest, followed by Canterbury West.
Parking in central Canterbury can be challenging. It's best to use one of the city's park-and-ride services or public car parks, then walk to the hospital.
Yes, many Canterbury walking tours include Eastbridge Hospital due to its historical significance and proximity to other major attractions like the Cathedral.
Exploring on foot is highly recommended to soak in the medieval atmosphere of Canterbury. The hospital is situated in a charming part of the city.
While the ground floor and some areas are accessible, certain upper floors with pilgrim rooms may have stairs. It's advisable to check accessibility details directly with the hospital if you have specific concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply, but visitors can often save money by purchasing a joint ticket that includes entry to the adjacent Franciscan Gardens. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Eastbridge Hospital website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
While walk-in visits are often possible, booking tickets in advance, especially for guided tours or during peak tourist seasons, is recommended to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings. Inquire directly with the hospital or check their website for details. The joint ticket with the Franciscan Gardens is also a form of saving.
Your admission ticket typically grants access to the historic building, including the pilgrim rooms, the chapel with its mural, and the unique viewing area of the River Stour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the medieval pilgrim rooms, admire a 13th-century mural, and see the River Stour flowing beneath the building through a glass floor. Guided tours offer deeper historical insights.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. They provide a comprehensive understanding of the hospital's history, its role for pilgrims, and the significance of its features.
Founded in 1190, it served as a religious hospital and hospice for pilgrims traveling to Canterbury Cathedral, most famously those visiting the shrine of St. Thomas Becket.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions upon arrival.
A self-guided visit might take around 30-60 minutes. With a guided tour and exploring the grounds, you could spend 1-1.5 hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The Gothic archways, the exterior views with the medieval architecture, the chapel mural, and the unique perspective of the river flowing underneath are prime photo opportunities.
Photography for personal use is usually allowed, but flash photography is typically prohibited to protect the historic artifacts and murals. Always confirm onsite.
Architectural photography focusing on the Gothic details, historical reenactment shots (if permitted), and capturing the serene atmosphere are popular.
Drone usage is generally not permitted over historic sites like Eastbridge Hospital due to preservation and privacy concerns.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that some areas might involve stairs, so stroller accessibility could be limited. The overall atmosphere is quiet and reflective, which might be best suited for families with children who can appreciate a more subdued experience. Combining the visit with the nearby Franciscan Gardens offers more space for kids to explore.
⛪ History Buffs & Religious Travelers
The opportunity to stay in the Yeomans apartment, as mentioned by one reviewer, offers an unparalleled immersive experience, allowing you to truly walk, pray, and stay where pilgrims once did. The well-preserved architecture and the surviving mural provide tangible links to the past, making it a deeply rewarding visit for anyone fascinated by this era.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Pilgrimage to Canterbury
The hospital's architecture reflects its long history, with notable Gothic archways and a 13th-century mural that offers a rare glimpse into medieval religious art. The very act of walking through its halls allows visitors to connect with the thousands of pilgrims who passed through before them, making it a deeply evocative experience. The presence of the River Stour flowing beneath the building adds another layer of historical intrigue, showcasing medieval ingenuity in urban planning.
Today, Eastbridge Hospital continues to offer a sense of peace and reflection, allowing visitors to imagine the lives of medieval travelers. It serves not just as a historical site but as a place where the echoes of faith and human endeavor can still be felt.
Experiencing the Medieval Atmosphere
The unique feature of the River Stour flowing beneath the hospital is a highlight for many. Seeing boats pass under the building through the glass floor is a fascinating and unexpected sight that sparks conversation and wonder. This blend of historical architecture and natural elements creates a truly memorable experience.
Many recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the stories and context behind the building. The guides often bring the history to life, sharing anecdotes that make the experience more personal and engaging. This immersive approach helps visitors connect more deeply with the hospital's legacy.
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