Dane John Gardens

Gardens in Canterbury

Recently judged one of the best parks in the country, Dane John Gardens has been awarded both the Green FlagAward and the Green Heritage Site Award.

Stroll along the city walls which border one side of the gardens and wander up to the top of the Dane John Mound for an excellent view of the city. On the top of the mound is a monument commemorating Alderman James Simmon's gift of the gardens to the people of Canterbury.

Before the nearby Norman castle was built, a wooden castle keep summounted the mound. The name Dane John is thought to have been anglicised from the French word donjon meaning a castle keep. A children's playground featuring a castle is sited in the shadow of the mound.

Many events are held in the gardens. Most weekends in the summer months there will be a band concert. Concerts range from Brass to Pop, Military to Rock with something to suit all age groups and tastes.

In November, the city's famous Christmas Euromarket is held here.

Photos of Dane John Gardens