Rochester Cathedral opened its secret gardens. Hidden behind the Cathedral are 3 acres of gardens. These are usually closed to the public but for 2 days this year the gardens will be opened to ticket holders as part of a project to increase access to this beautiful space. These photographs are taken on Saturday 18th April 2026.

The Cathedral Gardens and Orchard were once part of the old Priory of St Andrews. Over the past few years work has been underway to enhance and improve the gardens to allow them to be used more. Many areas of the garden have been planted to reference the Cathedral’s long history. An Infirmary herb garden full of herbs which monks may have used to cure an array of ailments has been planted. A small vineyard inspired by references to the monks at the medieval Cathedral producing fine wines. Our rose garden pays tribute to a Victorian Dean of the Cathedral, Samuel Reynolds Hole who was famous for his knowledge and expertise for growing roses. I also took a few photographs of the surrounding area