BattlefieldsSack of London by Danes (994 AD)
Early Medieval

Sack of London by Danes (994 AD)

994
Middlesex, England
Also known as: Olaf and Sweyn attack London 994 · London siege 994
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Middlesex, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
English countryside around London
VS
Victor
London (resisted) / Danes (raided the surroundings)
Outcome
London successfully defended; Danes ravaged Kent, Essex and Sussex; Danegeld of 16,000 pounds paid
The Battle

History & Significance

Olaf Tryggvason and Sweyn Forkbeard led a fleet of 94 ships against London in 994. The city successfully repelled the attack — the Londoners gave them 'more harm and evil than they ever thought any town-dwellers could do to them' according to the Chronicle. The Danes then ravaged the surrounding counties. The payment of 16,000 pounds Danegeld and the baptism of Olaf, with Ethelred as godfather, ended the immediate threat.

Forces Involved

Danes (94 ships): c. 3,000–5,000. London garrison: c. 500–1,500.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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