The grand gate of the Monastery faces a small square known since the reign of Charles I. as Lady Wootton's Green. The gate is flanked by two octagonal towers which rise like minarets above the main building. A pointed arch springs from tower to tower, and within it is a second arch which frames in the massive door of panelled oak. The traceried windows of the gate chamber are bays in an arcade of singular beauty. The canopied niches span the entire building, encompasing the towers on either side. Above is a band of trefoiled triangles, and over that a decorated battlement; while over all, the two turrets panelled, pierced and battlemented complete a facade which resembles an exquisite piece of lacework translated to stone. This noble gateway is harmonious in all its details. It is fortunate indeed that so perfect a work was spared by the spoilers of the once magnificent Abbey.
It had, however, some years previous to Mr. Hope purchasing it, been partially repaired through the efforts of a few public spirited individuals and some of the leading members of the Canterbury Literary Institution. Pull it down and sell the materials, was the cry. Happily however for the honour of the City, this act of spoliation was averted. The turrets were again restored in 1890-91.