You really get a sense of the terror imprisonment held within the medieval Westgate Towers. This really is an ‘untouched’ gem of a museum with original artifacts and fittings still in place from yesteryear all open to touch, pick up and experience for yourselves.

If you’re visiting with the kids then brass rubbing may well be a popular choice of entertainment, if you can get them to sit still long enough that is, for they may be running around with a replica medieval helmet on their heads pretending to be a brave knight of times gone by.

See original carvings in the stone walls made by inmates imprisoned in the gaol before their punishment of a gruesome death and experience the sheer weight and restriction of the original shackles that inmates were forced to wear.

James, the friendly inmate, who still resides in one of the medieval cells will be pleased to see you as you wonder around the Battlements - the roof top of Canterbury Westgate Towers.

The best views of Canterbury city centre and its old Roman wall are to be had from the roof of this magnificent historical building which is actually the UK’s largest remaining medieval gateway.

You can also experience Englands rich policing history with a display of the Victorian Prison Reform Movement taken place in the 1830’s gaol next door and a range of items and souvenirs can be purchased in the shop which is accessible on the first floor.

But that’s not all... because this rich historic building holds a secret... found hidden in the tower is a complete collection of magnificent 19th-century maquettes—the plaster casts used in the process of creating the 17 bronze statues that now stand in the Lords Chamber at Westminster. These extremely rare and significant statues pays tribute to each of the barons and bishops who signed Magna Carta in 1215, founding English law. They are still hidden from view, locked up in an untouched part of the building but a private viewing can be arranged with prior notice.

Soon you’ll be able to grab a coffee and a bite to eat in the new riverside Café and in 2013 you’ll also be able to stay next door in the original 1830 gaol and 1868 Police Station linked to the towers by a glass walkway suspended above the ground. Five unique suites will be available which will offer luxurious accommodation at the very heart of the City...

** Due to the historic character of the Canterbury Westgate Towers access is restricted for disabled visitors.

** Full disabled access will be available to the City Gaol Café which includes the felons day cells, the 1868 Police Station cells and the former exercise yard with Riverside Terrace.