Eastbridge Hospital, Greyfriars Chapel and The Franciscan Gardens
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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. From the middle of the last century the Master of Eastbridge has also been Rector of churches in the city centre, now consisting of St. Peter's and St. Mildred's. More recently the Master has been appointed the Priest in Charge of the Parish of Blean which has been in the Patronage of the Hospital since the Middle Ages.
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. |
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 13th century mural. |
The Eastbridge Hospital today
The residents are a lively Christian community who worship together daily 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.