BattlefieldsBattle of the Darent Valley
Roman Period

Battle of the Darent Valley

43
Kent, England
Also known as: Roman Batavian skirmish at Thames crossing
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Britons
Forces
Britons c. 2,000–3,000
VS
Victor
Romans (Batavian auxiliaries)
Forces
Batavian auxiliaries c. 1,500–2,000
Outcome
Local resistance overcome; Thames valley secured
The Battle

History & Significance

Dio's account of the Batavian auxiliaries who swam across the Thames in full armour (a characteristic Batavian skill) mentions fighting in the river and marshes. The Darent valley offered one possible route of advance to the Thames after the Medway battle.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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