Anglo-Saxon Burhs

This section explores Anglo-Saxon Burhs  the pre-Norman fortifications. The Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, particularly from the late 8th century onwards, faced significant threats from Viking invasions. In response, many towns were fortified to protect their inhabitants, their wealth, and strategic locations. These fortified settlements, known as burhs, played a crucial role in defending against these external threats.

While the fortifications of the Anglo-Saxon period were not as advanced or as permanent as those built in later times, they were still effective in providing security. The design and structure of a burh evolved to meet the needs of the time, combining both practicality and defence.

Construction of a Burh

The first step in building a burh was the excavation of a deep trench, often several metres wide. This trench served as an initial obstacle for invaders and helped to prevent any easy access to the town. After the trench was dug, a protective wall was constructed around the settlement. In the early stages, these walls were usually made of timber, but in some cases, particularly in wealthier or more strategically important areas, stone was used for better durability.

The wall was typically reinforced with wooden or stone towers at intervals, providing additional vantage points for defenders. This allowed the inhabitants to observe approaching enemies and defend the town more effectively. These defensive walls would often be topped with a wooden or metal parapet, which allowed defenders to stand behind cover while shooting arrows or using other forms of weaponry.

Inside the Burh

Inside the walls of a burh, the layout of the town did not differ drastically from other towns of the period. It was usually a busy settlement with houses, markets, and workshops. However, the key difference was the presence of large, strong gates at either end of the burh. These gates were strategically designed to control the movement of people and goods in and out of the town, preventing surprise attacks and keeping a tight control on who was allowed access.

The gates were often fortified with additional wooden or metal structures, and could be locked or sealed in the event of a threat. This made it harder for invaders to sneak inside, as they would have to deal with both the walls and the heavily guarded entrances. In some cases, burhs were also equipped with a type of watchtower or signal system, which allowed messages to be sent quickly in case of danger, alerting neighbouring areas of a potential Viking raid.

Examples of Burhs

• Alfred the Great's Burhs: Perhaps the most famous example of the Anglo-Saxon burh system comes from the reign of King Alfred the Great (871-899). Alfred implemented a network of burhs across Wessex, strategically placing them to protect vital routes and settlements. These burhs were crucial during his campaigns against Viking forces and played a significant role in the eventual defeat of the Viking invasions. Notable examples include Winchester, which was a well-established burh, and Bath, which was also fortified under Alfred’s rule.
• The Burh at Warwick: Warwick was another significant burh during the Anglo-Saxon period. Its location along the River Avon made it strategically important, and it was fortified with a combination of a defensive wall and a deep trench. Like other burhs, its design reflected both the defensive need for protection and the necessity to keep trade and communication flowing within the kingdom.

Burhs were an essential part of the Anglo-Saxon strategy to protect their kingdoms from Viking attacks. Although simple in design, they were effective in their function, providing both a physical barrier and a controlled environment within which Anglo-Saxon society could thrive despite the ongoing threat of invasion. The legacy of these fortifications can still be seen in the structure of many towns and cities across England today.