Brookland brings together two clearly defined interests to consider when choosing a destination: the architectural and church history of St Augustine’s Church, and the agricultural landscape with its long fields and paths along embankments. Those looking for a specific historical attraction to guide their choice of destination will find one in the detached wooden bell tower and the medieval artworks; those more interested in the landscape can focus on the field patterns, hedgerows, and described footpaths. Check the condition of the paths before planning a walk. You should also enquire in advance about the current availability of the church’s self-guided tour.
A bell tower built in several phases
The detached wooden bell tower of St Augustine’s Church was built as an open structure in the second half of the 13th century. In the 15th century, it was raised to 18 metres and clad in shingles. Its construction history therefore cannot be reduced to a single year: the original structure and the later extension belong to different centuries. The Church of St Augustine in Brookland is listed as a Grade I building.
A font, murals, and bells
The Church of St Augustine contains a cylindrical lead font dating from around 1200. It is decorated with zodiac signs and the labours of the months; the motifs bring together two different perspectives: the zodiac and activities over the course of the year. A mural in Brookland Church depicts the martyrdom of St Thomas a Becket and dates to the early 14th century. The Brookland Bell Tower also contains its oldest bell, which is more than 400 years old.
The literary connection is also specifically associated with the church bells: in Kipling’s time, the expression “Brookland Bells” in “Brookland Road” referred to the five bells of St Augustine’s Church. A self-guided tour of St Augustine’s Church is also available. Before visiting, enquire whether it is currently available.
Fields, hedgerows, and paths along embankments
The agricultural land around Brookland is characterised by long, narrow, regularly laid-out fields, along with a series of roads. Mixed hawthorn and willow hedgerows line narrow paths that run along the tops of embankments. The regular field patterns sit alongside a more finely grained network of paths: the fields define the scale of the agricultural land, while hedgerows and embankments border the narrow paths.
The “Rambling across Romney Marsh” walk leads to three footpaths near an inn in Brookland. Woolpack Bridge is the indicated direction for the middle path. This gives you a specific landmark for the route, without specifying a walking time or distance. Check the path conditions before setting out.
Inn and cuisine
The Woolpack Inn is now an inn and was the home of a beacon keeper in the 16th century. Its former use and present-day identity give the place another historical dimension alongside its church history.
The Royal Oak in Brookland uses local, fresh, and foraged ingredients for its menu. As the selection of ingredients may change, check the latest information before visiting. These different highlights offer different ways to choose a destination: architectural and church history, landscape, and a menu featuring local and foraged ingredients.
Putting the railway station’s history in context
Brookland was the first station on the Lydd Railway Company’s branch line to New Romney. Train services began there on 7 December 1881; today, the station is no longer a passenger transport facility. The station is part of the area’s history, but does not indicate a current train connection.
Discover more destinations: Lympne, Nonington, Bapchild, Womenswold, Marden, Gravesend, Ringwould, Linton.
For the broader travel overview: Kent.
