The Battle of Ashdown, fought on the Berkshire Downs in January 871, was Alfred's first great victory and one of the most significant battles of the Viking Age. Aethelred was at prayer when the Danes formed up; Alfred, unwilling to wait, charged uphill alone. When Aethelred joined him, the Danes broke and were pursued until dark. Two Viking kings (Bagseg and Halfdan) and five earls were killed. Asser recorded that Alfred fought "like a wild boar."
Two Danish kings and five earls killed; heavy Heathen Army losses
This battlefield is listed on the Register of Historic Battlefields — a national designation identifying Britain's most significant battle sites for protection and further research. Reference: ENG 61.
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