Origins: A Clearing in the Forest
The story of Brentwood begins in the vast, dense Great Forest of Essex. Its very name is believed to derive from the Old English words 'bærnet' and 'wudu', meaning 'Burnt Wood'. This refers to a settlement that grew within a clearing created by a fire, likely established by the Abbot of St Osyth in the late 12th century. Situated strategically on the old Roman road connecting London to Colchester, the small clearing was perfectly positioned to become a vital hub for travellers and trade.
The Age of Pilgrimage
Brentwood’s importance grew significantly in the medieval period following the martyrdom of St. Thomas Becket in Canterbury in 1170. The town became a popular and essential resting place for pilgrims travelling from East Anglia and beyond to his shrine. In 1221, the Abbot of St Osyth obtained a royal charter to hold a market and fair, and a chapel dedicated to St. Thomas was built. The atmospheric ruins of this 13th-century chapel can still be visited today, a powerful reminder of the thousands of pilgrims who passed through the town centuries ago.
Coaching Inns and Market Growth
As the centuries passed, Brentwood evolved into a prosperous coaching town. The High Street, lined with inns and alehouses, bustled with the activity of horse-drawn carriages carrying mail, goods, and passengers between London and the east coast. Famous inns like the White Hart (now a nightclub) became landmarks, offering food, lodging, and fresh horses for the next stage of the journey. The weekly market thrived, making Brentwood a commercial centre for the surrounding agricultural communities.
The Victorian Transformation
The 19th century brought profound changes to Brentwood. The arrival of the Eastern Counties Railway in 1840 was a turning point, connecting the town directly to London and marking the beginning of its life as a commuter suburb. Wealthy city merchants built grand villas, and the population grew rapidly. Several significant institutions were established during this era, shaping the town's character:
- Warley Barracks: Built in 1805 to defend against a potential Napoleonic invasion, it became the depot of the Essex Regiment and played a major role in military life for over 150 years before its closure in the 1950s. The site has since been redeveloped into housing, but the chapel remains.
- Warley Hospital: Opened in 1853 as the Essex County Lunatic Asylum, this vast Victorian building was a major employer and a self-sufficient community with its own farms, church, and gasworks. It closed in 2001 and has also been converted into luxury apartments.
Brentwood in the Modern Era
Throughout the 20th century, Brentwood continued to expand, embracing its role as a key part of the London commuter belt. It played its part during both World Wars, and the post-war years saw significant housing development. In 1993, Brentwood was granted Borough status, reflecting its civic importance. Today, Brentwood is a vibrant, modern town that has not forgotten its rich past. The introduction of the Elizabeth Line has further enhanced its superb transport links, while its historic High Street, ancient woodlands, and surviving architectural gems offer a direct connection to the pilgrims, coachmen, and Victorians who shaped its fascinating story.