Norman Landing
William crossed the English Channel with thousands of soldiers and horses.
He landed at Pevensey in Sussex on 28 September 1066.
William immediately built wooden castles to protect his army.
His soldiers also raided nearby villages for food.
William wanted Harold to come south quickly and fight.
Harold Marches South
Harold turned his exhausted army around and marched south from Yorkshire.
His army had already fought one major battle and travelled huge distances.
William’s army, meanwhile, was fresh and prepared.