In 55 BC, the Roman cavalry ships were forced back to Gaul by a storm, and Caesar's troops were confined to the shore.

In 54BC Julius Cæsar organised a large expedition to Britain. The exact date isn't certain but it thought to be between July and September.

The only record is Caesar's own account but this does not identify exact places, drawing much argument on the subject.   Local legend takes the following interpretation: -

Carsar's narrative, "De Bello Gallico" (Book V, 2) says is that he made an overnight march of about 12 miles from his landing place and came in sight of the enemy who defended a river crossing.   (Locally this is said to be the Nailbourne although there is a logical alternative of the Stour).

Beaten off by Caesar’s cavalry, the Britons hid in the woods in a place of natural strength and already fortified, probably for their local wars, since all the entrances were said to have been blocked by closely packed logs.   (Locally this is said to be Bursted by Bishopsbourne although the Stour option would yield Bigbury near Tonford).

After being beaten in that encounter the Britons are said to have retired to a defensive position they had prepared in a wood, from which they had to be flushed out by soldiers of the 7^th Legion taking flight thereafter.

Caesar then spent 10 days repairing his fleet.

Roman occupation left no physical trace in Barham. There have been many Roman finds but no buildings. The closest Roman Villa to Barham is probably that at Wingham which was excavated in the late 19^th century.