Located in Kent, United Kingdom, Matfield is a charming village steeped in history and English charm. Matfield is part of the civil parish of Brenchley and Matfield, known for its traditional village area and peaceful atmosphere. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, making it ideal for nature walks and outdoor activities.

One of the most notable aspects of the village is its connection to the First World War, with the famous poet Siegfried Sassoon, who was born in Matfield, Kent, England, in 1886. His legacy adds a literary charm to the village, attracting people interested in history and poetry.

Matfield is a quaint village with lots of greenery, historic pubs like The Poet, and historic cottages that reflect the area’s culture. The rural atmosphere of the village, combined with a close-knit community, makes it a peaceful retreat.

A Historic Gem in Kent

Matfield is rich in history, with Domesday Book records dating back to 1086. The heritage of the village is evident in its traditional architecture and many old buildings, many of which are beautifully preserved. One of the notable features of Matfield is the large village green, surrounded by rows of Georgian houses, cottages, and village pubs. The Poet at Matfield provides a perfect gathering place for locals and travel enthusiasts.

The Poet at Matfield is a famous pub named after Siegfried Sassoon, the celebrated World War I poet born in the village.

Matfield Attractions and Things to Do

Matfield is a great place for those who love the outdoors. The surrounding countryside is ideal for beautiful walks, cycling, and picnics. Not far from Matfield is the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a protected area recognized for its stunning scenery, ancient forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. The High Weald is a great place to experience natural beauty while discovering the region’s hidden gems.

For those interested in architecture, Matfield’s village green is surrounded by historic buildings, including the 17th-century Matfield House. This historic building, which served as Siegfried Sassoon’s childhood home, exudes period elegance. Nearby, you’ll also find St. Luke’s Church, a beautifully serene Victorian building, ideal for travelers seeking a moment of reflection.

Matfield Residents

Matfield is not only a picturesque village but also a welcoming little community. The locals are known for their friendly demeanor, and regular village events bring everyone together. The annual Matfield Village Fete, usually held on the village green, is a popular event that attracts residents and visitors alike for fun, food, and entertainment. The village also hosts other events, such as holiday fairs and outdoor concerts.

Matfield’s Buildings and Facilities

Matfield currently has a grocer and butcher shop. Following the closure of The Wheelwright Arms in 2017, the village now has only two pubs: The Star and the gastropub The Poet at Matfield, formerly known as Standing Cross. The pub’s name has been carried on for more than 150 years since its inception. In the 1840s, John Standing ran an alehouse in his cottage and served homebrew to his customers from barrels in his front room. He encountered a cellar problem when it rained, so he sold his house and moved into a bakery across the street, turning it into Matfield’s new alehouse. The pub was creatively named Standing Cross to commemorate the occasion.

Sassoon’s Inspiration

Siegfried Sassoon, one of the most famous poets of the First World War, drew inspiration from his experiences and the brutal reality of war. His book The Old Century (1914) paid tribute to his early life in the region. Sassoon’s privileged upbringing, surrounded by the picturesque English countryside, fostered his deep love and appreciation of nature. With the village’s serene beauty, rolling hills, and peaceful surroundings, some of his earliest poems featured animal imagery.

However, it was Sassoon’s experience as a soldier during the First World War that profoundly shaped his best-known works. The stark contrast between the peaceful countryside of Matfield and the horrors of the battlefield gave him a new perspective. Sassoon’s poems, which initially featured lyrical poetry and romantic imagery, shifted to sharp criticism of the war and its leaders. Works such as Counter-Attack and The War Poems reflect the frustration and grief that arose from his time on the front lines.

Notable People from Matfield

• Siegfried Sassoon (1886–1967), poet, born in Matfield.
• Theresa Thornycroft (1853–1946), sculptor, lived in Matfield.
• Frank Marchant (1864–1946), cricketer and captain of Kent County Cricket Club, was born at Matfield House.
• Alan Watt (1907–1974), cricketer, lived in Matfield.
• Harrison Weir (1824–1906), artist, lived in Matfield.