THE SHAKESPEARE
DOVETAIL COTTAGE
OLIVER ’ S BAR AND RESTAURANT
More of Canterbury ’ s Christian history can be explored during the daytime at the Franciscan Gardens . After arriving in Canterbury from Italy in 1224 , the Franciscans were gifted a small island of land in the middle of the River Stour . Active members of the community , these friars gained respect and popularity by aiding the sick and needy . The garden itself has lived many lives , having been an estate for a wealthy Tudor family , a tea garden and a commercial plant nursery . Today , there is now one-and-a-half acres of the original site for visitors to enjoy ; it has been restored to evoke a taste of how the Franciscans would have seen it , complete with chapel , cloister garth and cutting garden . Ghost sightings of a grey hooded figure , said to be one of the Franciscans , have been seen flitting about the city and cathedral at twilight .
For those seeking refuge from the strange happenings of the city , look no further than Dovetail Cottage , available through Bloom Stays . A charming property in the heart of
Canterbury , this delightful Victorian cottage offers a perfect blend of history and modern comforts , making it an ideal choice for couples and families . Step inside and be greeted by a beautifully decorated interior that effortlessly combines Victorian elegance with contemporary style . One of the standout features of this property is the superb cinema room , a rare find in a cottage . Treat yourself to a cinematic experience – whether it ’ s a horror movie ideal for Halloween or something a little more lighthearted . It doesn ’ t matter if you forget the popcorn - the shops are only a quick walk away .
Canterbury Cathedral is not the only cathedral in Kent . The historic town of Rochester , famous for once being the home of Charles Dickens , himself a committed ghost story lover , has its very own too . Standing opposite Rochester Castle , these two magnificent monuments truly are a sight to behold . Visit the castle and prepare to be perplexed at its complex history of destruction and rebuilding ; this protector of an important crossing on the River
Medway is immersed in stories of bloody battles , treachery and tragic romance , the most famous being the ghostly tales of the White Lady , who was shot accidentally by her lover through the heart . Her ghost is said to wander restlessly through the castle , the bloody arrow still embedded in her chest , her flowing black hair a vivid contrast to her spectral white dress .
To prepare yourselves for taking on lots of historic tales , breakfast at Tiny Tim ’ s Tearoom and go all out with their ‘ Artful Dodger Breakfast ’, a classic full English to set even the most hardy of Victorian pickpockets up for the day . Keep it Dickens ’ themed all the way into lunch with a visit to Peggotty ' s Parlour which has been providing homemade cakes , scrumptious lunches and cream teas since 1982 . Or , for a more substantial lunchtime meal or dinner , stop by at yet another ode to the great novelist , Oliver ’ s Bar and Restaurant , serving a mouthwatering menu with acclaimed favourites of scrumptious steak and sublime seafood .
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