Seeing that several of the ships had been captured, that others had taken to flight, and that there was no longer a hope of victory, Alfred gave the signal, and the Dragon and her remaining consorts fought their way through the Danish fleet and made their escape.
The valour which the Saxons had shown in these two sea-fights, and the strength of the army with which Alfred had so speedily marched to the relief of Rochester, greatly impressed the enemy, and although Rollo came across from Normandy to the assistance of Athelstan, the Danes concluded that it was better to leave the Saxons to themselves.
Alfred in the following spring again assembled his army and laid siege to London, which was still in the possession of the Danes.

Athelstan did not venture to march to its assistance, and the town, which had long been in the Northmen's hands, was captured.

The greater portion of the city was burned in the siege.

Alfred ordered it to be rebuilt, invited its former inhabitants to return, and offered privileges to all who would take up their abode there.

The walls were rebuilt, and the city placed in a position of defence.