Lindisfarne: How the 793 Viking Raid Shaped Britain

At Lindisfarne in 793 a group of Norse raiders attacked the monastery, sparking what many see as the start of the Viking Age in Britain. By examining contemporary accounts from Bishop Higbald and archaeological finds we distinguish what can be asserted about tactics, motives and impact against later legends that exaggerate heroism or divine judgment. The episode also looks at how this raid changed monastic fortifications, royal responses and long‑term perceptions of Viking threats. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices