BattlefieldsBattle of Sheppey
Early Medieval

Battle of Sheppey

835
Kent, England
Also known as: Viking Overwintering at Sheppey
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Men of Kent
VS
Victor
Vikings
Outcome
First Viking overwintering in England; Kent ravaged
The Battle

History & Significance

In 835 a large Viking fleet ravaged Sheppey and the surrounding area. The Chronicle records that the island was harried. More importantly, this represents an escalation from hit-and-run raiding to sustained campaigning: the Vikings were now operating in larger fleets and staying longer. Mercia and Wessex would both face escalating pressure in the following decades.

Forces Involved

Vikings: c. 500-2,000 (5-20 ships). Men of Kent: c. 200-500.

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