Bow Top metal railings secure reflective garden

Project Overview

Contractor
Hackwood Building Services 

Client
Woking Borough Council, South Western Railway

Location
Brookwood Cemetery, Surrey

Date Complete
2025

Sector
Transport

Background

Brookwood Cemetery in Surrey is one of the largest cemeteries in the UK, with a history intertwined with the railway industry. Between 1854 and 1941, the cemetery was served by the London Necropolis Railway, a dedicated line transporting mourners and coffins from London. The railway was a symbol of Victorian ingenuity, and its legacy remains a unique part of British history.

In 2025, the nation celebrated Railway 200, marking 200 years since the first passenger railway opened. As part of these celebrations, South Western Railway envisioned a reflective garden along the old railway line at Brookwood Cemetery. The aim was to create a tranquil space where visitors could pause, reflect, and connect with the site’s historical significance. The project brought together several partners, including Network Rail, Leslie J Thorpe, Hackwood Building Services Ltd, Sage Landscape Gardening, and Jacksons Fencing, whose contribution of bow top metal railings was vital to the garden’s success.

The Challenge

Transforming a historic section of Brookwood Cemetery into a modern reflective garden posed multiple challenges. The site needed to respect and commemorate the history of the London Necropolis Railway while creating a safe and inviting environment for visitors. The garden required a durable boundary that clearly separated it from public footpaths without compromising the calm, contemplative atmosphere. Achieving the right balance between security, elegance, and historical sensitivity was crucial.

Solution

Jacksons Fencing provided a solution through its Anti-Trap Bow Top metal railings and gates. These railings offered the perfect combination of safety, longevity, and visual appeal. Designed to prevent entrapment of necks and limbs, the RoSPA and BS EN 1176 compliant design ensures the space is safe for visitors of all ages. The fencing’s robust construction provides a long-lasting solution, backed by a 25 year service life guarantee, while its elegant bow top design complements the serene setting of the garden.

In places such as cemeteries and graveyards, vandalism is rarely anticipated, as such acts would be considered deeply disrespectful, but unfortunately this is not always the case. As a result, products with anti-vandal features are often not prioritised during specification or purchasing. Jacksons’ Bow Top railings are thoughtfully designed to offer discreet protection without compromising on appearance. Hidden internal connectors secure the panels to the posts, while the pales are fixed through the rails to create a robust, tamper-resistant structure. These subtle design details help deter opportunistic damage and ensure the boundary remains secure and attractive for years to come. Read more about fencing that protects against vandalism in our blog.

The reflective garden includes a commemorative section of track laid along the old railway line. This subtle nod to the site’s past allows visitors to connect with history while enjoying a modern, peaceful space. The metal railings form a clear, attractive boundary between the garden and adjacent footpaths, helping to define the area without obstructing views or the natural flow of the landscape. Power coated black, the metal railings not only look smart and elegant, but they are now protected against rust for many years without the risk of chipping or cracking and looking unsightly. Visual appeal is highly important, particularly in memorial gardens or cemeteries; it signifies care and respect to visitors and mourners and helps to make people feel at ease.

The garden was officially opened on 24th September 2025. The ceremony was attended by Cllr Amanda Boote, Mayor of Woking, along with senior rail industry representatives, local MPs, historians, and community leaders. The ribbon-cutting marked both the celebration of the country’s railway heritage and the successful collaboration of all partners involved.

Nick Bishenden of Jacksons Fencing said:

“Our Anti-Trap Bow Top metal railings were designed to combine security, safety, and elegance, making them ideal for spaces where people of all ages come together. It is wonderful to see them used here to provide clear separation between the public footpath and the garden, creating a safe and welcoming environment while protecting this special space.”

Paula Aldridge, Community Rail Manager at South Western Railway, added:

“We’re proud to have brought this reflective garden to life as part of Railway 200. The generosity and expertise of our partners, especially Jacksons Fencing, has created a safe, beautiful, and lasting space that will benefit the community for years to come.”

Impact and Legacy

The reflective garden provides a meaningful space for visitors to engage with the cemetery’s rich heritage. The commemorative railway track honours the London Necropolis Railway, while the carefully placed bow top metal railings ensure a safe, accessible environment. The garden’s tranquil design encourages reflection and connection, offering a peaceful retreat for the local community and visitors alike.

By combining historical preservation with modern design, the garden demonstrates how public spaces can celebrate the past while serving present-day needs. The use of durable, elegant bow top metal railings ensures the reflective garden will remain secure and visually appealing for decades, reinforcing the project’s long-term value.

The garden also exemplifies the spirit of Railway 200, connecting past and present while inspiring future generations to appreciate and engage with railway history. It stands as a lasting testament to collaboration, craftsmanship, and the thoughtful integration of safety, elegance, and heritage.

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Products Used

  • Anti-Trap Bow Top Fencing and Gates
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