Archway About 15 Metres East Of Brenchley Manor

The archway located about 15 meters east of Brenchley Manor dates from 1577, as indicated by the datestone. It is constructed from freestone and exhibits a Rustic Renaissance style, described by Pevsner as "Serlian classicism." The archway was likely built for Elizabeth Fane, whose coat of arms is intricately carved in the pediment. It features a round-headed arch with a keystone that springs from worn imposts, one of which has a lozenge-carved capital. Sturdy pilasters flank the arch, supporting an entablature topped with a pediment that is adorned with an unusual carved ornament, flanked by similar ornaments on either side. The pilasters have deep rusticated bases with lozenge-carved banding, and the reeded pilasters also display similar banding. The entablature includes a frieze resembling a triglyph frieze but with four mouldings and guttae beneath. The pediment showcases Elizabeth Fane's arms in relief and the date of 1577, which is sometimes misinterpreted as 1522. The three large and eccentric ornaments crowning the archway consist of squat, flat-faced balusters carved with crude scrolls and topped with depressed ball finials. Additionally, the archway is fitted with a pair of wrought iron gates, likely from the early 20th century.