Church of St Mildred

The Church of St Mildred stands in Canterbury’s historic centre, within the old city walls. Built partly of stone in the Anglo-Saxon style, it dates from the 11th century and is the only pre-Norman church still standing inside the former defences. Two walls of the nave survive from before 1066, while the chancel is also believed to be Anglo-Saxon. Relics of Saint Mildred, who died in 768, were moved here from Canterbury Cathedral in the middle of the 11th century. The church once belonged to St Augustine’s Abbey until the monastery was dissolved in 1538. The building has a five-bay nave and a two-bay chancel, most of which were added between the 13th century and 1512. It was restored in 1861 after centuries of use. Today it forms part of the Benefice of St Dunstan, St Mildred and St Peter in the Diocese of Canterbury. The church follows the Anglo-Catholic tradition within the Church of England. Inside, the nave and chancel show layers of medieval work. The Anglo-Saxon fabric remains visible in parts of the walls. The church’s setting in the St Mildred’s quarter keeps it close to Canterbury’s cathedral and other historic buildings. Visitors find a quiet place where early English stonework meets later Gothic additions. The interior reflects centuries of worship and restoration.