The National Trust

The Battle of Maldon took place on these shores in 991 AD, making this the oldest recorded battlefield in Britain. The Vikings successfully occupied Northey Island and a battle ensued across the causeway to the mainland. The Anglo-Saxon army fought against the Viking invasion, but were eventually defeated. TL866055

Although Stone Age flints have been found on Northey Island, the causeway itself is thought to be Roman in origin, similar to that of neighbouring Osea Island. At low tide it is possible to walk across the causeway to the island. TL871057

The salt marshes and tidal creeks around Northey Island are important habitats for overwintering birds, such as brent goose and shelduck, providing them with feeding grounds rich in nutrients. The island is also a significant roost for several duck species like widgeon and mallard. TL875061

Sir Norman Angell, writer, politician and Nobel Peace Prize winner, bought the island in 1923. He constructed the turreted walls around the garden and also built the present towered Northey House (not open to the public). The house lies adjacent to an earlier farmhouse and barn which were destroyed during an air-raid in World War II. TL878063

The first realignment experiment was carried out here in 1991. The sea wall was reduced allowing the highest tides, and the silt carried in them, to flood the lower land behind. When these tides drain away, the silt is left behind, which over time builds up and becomes colonised by salt marsh plants, creating new habitats that naturally reduce the force of the incoming tide and protect the coast from erosion. TL876057