BattlefieldsBattle of Lewes (1264)
Medieval

Battle of Lewes (1264)

1264
East Sussex, England
Also known as: Battle of Lewes 1264 · Henry III captured by de Montfort
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
East Sussex, England
Status
Registered · EHB16
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Royalists (Henry III / Prince Edward)
Forces
c.5,000 Simon de Montfort; Henry captured
VS
Victor
Barons (Simon de Montfort)
Forces
c.5,000 Royalists (Henry III)
Outcome
Henry III captured; Prince Edward captured; de Montfort effectively ruler of England for a year
The Battle

History & Significance

The Battle of Lewes was Simon de Montfort's greatest triumph and one of the most significant battles in English constitutional history. De Montfort defeated and captured King Henry III. Prince Edward had won his section of the battle but foolishly pursued fleeing Londoners too far; when he returned, the battle was lost. The Mise of Lewes gave de Montfort effective control of the kingdom and led to the first elected Parliament.

Casualties & Losses

Significant losses on both sides

Registered Historic Battlefield

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: EHB16.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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