April 21st 1450

French Attack Queenborough, Kent

The French emboldened by their recent victories in Normandy, took the initiative and made an attack on England. Queenborough’s castle, also know as Sheppey Castle was attacked (according to Robert Bale – chronicler) by the French. Queenborough, is on the east side of the  Isle of Sheppy.

The French, I can only assume in some sort of disguise, sailed up the Thames Estuary and into the River Medway and docked at Queenborough. I am not sure as to why they picked Queenborough to attack, except that Sheppey might have been lightly defended and difficult to support as there was no fixed crossing. However, Queenborough was a relatively new castle and was concentrically designed to withstand gunpowder weapons.

The French failed to take Queenborough Castle, but this bold attack obviously created concern for the local populace of Kent.

Queenborough castle was to be later involved directly with the Cade rebellion where the Castle successfully defended itself with only a handful of men.

Queenborough castle no longer exists, but was subject to a “Time Team” archaeological dig, in 2006 (series 13 Episode 8). At time of posting this episode is not available online via All4, but can be found on YouTube.