The Norman Invaders March To HastingsThe Norman invaders led by Duke William landed at Pevensey on the South coast of England on September 28th 1066 and immediately initiated work on the first Norman wooden castle The next day, 29th September, they marched along the sea-shore to Hastings.
Near that place the Duke fortified a camp, and set up the two other wooden castles he had brought with him from Normandy. The foragers, and those who looked out for booty, seized all the clothing and provisions they could find, lest what had been brought by the ships should fail them. The English were to be seen fleeing before them, driving off their cattle, and quitting their houses. Many took shelter in churches and cemeteries, the whole of the population were terrified of the invading Normans.
Besides the marauders from the Norman camp, strong bodies of cavalry were detached by William into the country. These knights were looking for signs of the English Saxon army. When Harold and his army made their rapid march from London to the South coast they reported back that the Saxon King was rushing on like a madman.
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