Roper Gate, Canterbury, Kent

The Roper Gate is one of the best examples of decorative Tudor brickwork in Canterbury. It was once the entrance to a great sixteenth century house belonging to the Roper family however the house has long since gone leaving the gate isolated along the north side of St Dunstan's Street. No known evidence for the location of 'Place House', to which the gate gave access, has survived. A brick by brick survey of this important structure was undertaken prior to its restoration. Much of the fabric of the gate was in poor condition at the time of the survey.

The gate comprises an elegant four-centred arch with crow-stepped gables. Its brickwork is laid in an English bond using thin 2" red bricks that are typical of the region and period. A triple light window and roundel can be seen above the arch. Tumbling of the south-east buttress and raised diamond diapers are also features that add to the attractive appearance of this gateway.

The gate has now been fully restored under the direction of Canterbury City Council Conservation Section. Our thanks are extended to the City Council for funding the survey work, to Mr Alan Briggs, the restorer of the gate for his help.

More information can be found in CAT's Annual Report 1988–89.

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The Roper Gate after restoration.

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