BattlefieldsBattle of Folkestone (991)
Early Medieval

Battle of Folkestone (991)

991
Kent, England
Also known as: Danes at Folkestone 991
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Men of Kent
VS
Victor
Vikings
Outcome
Folkestone area harried
The Battle

History & Significance

As part of Olaf Tryggvason's 991 campaign that culminated at Maldon, the Viking fleet harried the Kentish and Sussex coasts. Multiple engagements occurred as the fleet worked up the coast. The Chronicle preserves a general picture of systematic coastal devastation rather than individual battles, but several engagements are noted near Sandwich, Folkestone, and along the Thames estuary.

Forces Involved

Vikings: c. 2,000–4,000. Men of Kent: c. 500–1,200.

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