Eastbridge Hospital, Greyfriars Chapel and The Franciscan Gardens

Eastbridge Hospital

Welcome to the Eastbridge Hospital of St. Thomas the Martyr. It is a hospital in the old sense of the word - a place of hospitality.

Since its foundation in the 12th century the Archbishop of Canterbury has been the patron. In recent years the Master of Eastbridge was also the Parish Priest of the City Centre, this link has now ceased but the Master continues as patron of the local parish of Blean where the hospital still owns a small area of land from its medieval farms.

For 800 years the Eastbridge has given shelter and help to pilgrims, soldiers, local societies and schoolchildren. For over 400 years it has provided a permanent home to a number of elderly people.

Tour of Eastbridge Hospital

Today the Eastbridge Hospital welcomes visitors at the following opening times. A tour of the historic Eastbridge Hospital includes

The Undercroft.

Chantry Chapel The Undercroft with Gothic arches The Refectory with an early 13th century mural Pilgrims Chapel

13th century mural.

The Eastbridge Hospital Today

The residents are a lively Christian community who worship together in our chapels and share in welcoming visitors. The Eastbridge Hospital cooperates closely with the City Centre Parish, making its buildings available for worship and as a centre for Christian mission to those who live and work in the city.

Through the Hospital's oversight of Franciscan Garden with its Greyfriars Chapel a link is maintained with the Franciscan community which first came to Canterbury in the 13th century.

Brother Austin SSF
Master of the Eastbridge Hospital.

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