Invasion Coast : Defending the Shores of Kent and Sussex

The shores of south-east England, or more precisely those of Kent and East Sussex, have for at least two millennia been threatened by invading forces. Initially it was the Romans, who in turn were challenged by the Saxons. They were succeeded by the Vikings who penetrated to the very heart of the country, resulting in Cnut becoming King of England. William I landed at Pevensey in 1066 to bring the conquering Normans to these shores. Afterwards the French still raided and once they were dissuaded the Spanish and Dutch made various attempts, before the rise of the French again under Napoleon Bonaparte. The Victorian years brought relative peace until the start of the twentieth century heralded the threat from Germany. Throughout this history these shores have been continually attacked by the sea.

Aside from these violent exchanges there have been welcome arrivals: St Augustine brought Christianity back to these shores and pilgrims flocked to Becket’s tomb at Canterbury. Relatively recently there has been an influx of sea bathers, with day-trippers and seaside holidaymakers causing seagirt fishing and farming communities to become resorts of considerable size. In consequence, as everywhere, this area has been invaded by the motor car.

With fascinating images, Anthony Lane explores how this region has defended itself against these onslaughts as well as accommodating the demands of those wanting to spend time by the sea.