NIGHTBRINGER | The Arthurian Encyclopedia

Sandwich


Sandwich is a historic town located in the district of Dover in Kent. It is situated on the River Stout, near the southeastern coast of England.

In Malory’s tales, this seems to be as important port as Dover. Here Arthur left for and returned from his war against Lucius, and from here to Carlisle to face Mordred.

Lancelot offered to walk barefoot in penance for the war over Guenevere.


Sandwich | 0 to 9th century AD

Roman Period | 1st – 4th centuries AD
The area where Sandwich is located was likely inhabited during the Roman occupation of Britain. The Romans established settlements, roads, and infrastructure throughout the region. Being near the coast, it’s plausible that the area had some level of interaction with Roman trade routes.

Anglo-Saxon Period | 5th – 9th centuries AD
With the decline of Roman influence, the Anglo-Saxons, a group of Germanic tribes, migrated to Britain. This period marked the transition from Roman Britain to Anglo-Saxon England. Anglo-Saxon settlements likely existed in the area during the fifth to ninth centuries. The town might have been a small community engaged in farming, trade, and possibly fishing.

In the ninth century, Viking raids and invasions became a significant threat to coastal regions in Britain. Coastal towns and settlements, including those in Kent, faced the impact of Viking attacks.


Sources
Prose Brut | Late 13th century to late 15th century
Alliterative Morte Arthure | c. 1400
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470