A Day out ....to riverside Canterbury
Most people will know the main shopping streets
of Canterbury, and probably much more of Canterbury too but many
miss the slightly more hidden aspects of the river Stour as it
flows through the town.
The river passes through Canterbury on its way to
the sea from havng passed through Ashford earlier in its travels.
To pass through Canterbury it divides into two halves, both of
which pass through scenic parkland on their way through the town.
The most obvious point of the more northerly branch of the
river is Westgate gardens.
Westgate gardens are at the end of the main shopping
street and are difficult to miss. Wandering through them upriver
brings you out into a more open area with plenty of space to relax
away from the hustle and bustle of town.
One of the best views of these gardens is to be
had form the top of the gatehouse itself. It only costs about
as pound to go up and also gives a good view of the main shopping
street.
Views from the Westgate
There is more to the northern branch of the river than this,
however. To see it, go through the Gate and turn right. (if you
are coming from the town centre direction).
The river first runs alongside some flats but following
the path along soon brings you to a very attractive converted
mill.
At this point, the river splits up into all sorts
of different directions. The island in the picture above is usually
home to a fair few ducks relaxing away from the tourist crowds.
Following this branch of the river around eventually
brings you to a junction with the main southern branch of the
river through the town.
From this point, you can continue to follow the
riverside past a long term car park (one of the few good places
to park in town), a Sainsburys and beyond. Or you can turn back
to explore the southern branch of the river stour as it flows
through the town...
Canterbury Riverside...Part
Two
Other Days Out
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