Our Community - Westgate Hall

Community is at the core of Westgate Hall – what we do, who we are and how we operate.

For over 100 years, we have been a civic space, full of heritage and heart, supporting businesses, health services, educational establishments and social purpose organisations and groups. We are situated in Canterbury’s vibrant centre, yet our civic role extends throughout the districts and Kent.

See what we do and who we support by reading these stories…

Westgate Hall Market

We showcase Kent's talented Makers, Artists and Producers, all in one place, in our spacious venue. Browse the very best in local produce, crafts, arts, homeware, jewellery and more. Meet the people behind the products and hear how they lovingly make each item, or host your own stall.

Canterbury Wine Festival

We are host and founder of the Canterbury Wine Festival - an annual event showcasing Kent's world-class wines and viticulture, in the heart of the vineyard of England. Kent is the epicentre of England’s viticulture scene and we want to let the whole world know about it through our festival - join us on 16 and 17 May 2025.

Bemix community venue hire at Westgate Hall

Bemix Discovery Catering

We regularly welcome social enterprise Bemix Discovery Catering and their wonderful group, those with and without learning difficulties, to enjoy time together gaining skills in cooking and catering. Restrictions permitting, you can visit their monthly pop-up cafe at the Hall.

Canterbury Festival

Kent's much-loved, long-standing International Arts event, Canterbury Festival, returns to Westgate Hall in October 2022, bringing world-renowned artists, musicians, comedians and performers to Canterbury, for the whole community to enjoy and participate in.

Canterbury Academy Trust

Westgate Hall supports young people as they practise, rehearse and perform their creative skills during their studies at Canterbury Academy Trust - the "school of all talents". We provide a large, safe space for them to thrive and flourish in as part of their studies and training.

Health and wellbeing venue hire at Westgate Hall

NHS Blood donations

Taking care of our community is important to us. Trusted by the NHS, our spacious, hygienic, Covid-secure accredited Hall has hosted blood donation sessions for years. We have continued to do so throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, providing a safe space for vital health sessions.

Produced in Kent

Westgate Hall is proud to be an Industry Partner of Produced in Kent. The garden of England is abundant in exceptional locally grown food, drink and artistry. We join Produced in Kent's mission to celebrate, promote and champion Kent's exceptional produce and crafts.