Vikings in Benfleet? The Bloody Battle Behind a High Street Landmark
Vikings in Benfleet? You might not expect them among the shops and traffic of the High Street, but their legacy is still visible today. Discover the dramatic story behind the striking Viking longship sculpture and the bloody battle it commemorates.
Have you spotted any marauding, bloodthirsty Vikings in #Benfleet of late? hopefully not but did you know there’s a permanent reminder of them sitting right in Benfleet High Street?
The striking metal sculpture near the bottom of the High Street, opposite Benfleet Conservative Club, might look like a Viking head, but it actually represents the decorative prow of a Viking longship.
It commemorates the Battle of Benfleet, fought here more than 1,100 years ago, when Viking leader Haesten had established a fortified camp before the Saxons attacked and destroyed Viking ships.
Even more remarkably, when the railway was built in 1855, remains of burnt ships and human skeletons were reportedly discovered near Benfleet Creek. 💀⚓️ Thankfully, Benfleet’s a little more peaceful these days!
