BattlefieldsHastings Approach Skirmishes 1066
Early Medieval

Hastings Approach Skirmishes 1066

1066
England
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Forces
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
English foragers
VS
Victor
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
English and Norman vanguard elements; mounted Norman scouts
Outcome
Preliminary contact forced both sides into battle formation; the main engagement began on Senlac Ridge
The Battle

History & Significance

As Harold's army formed up and advanced from the ridge toward the battlefield on the morning of 14 October, light forces of both armies made contact in the low ground between Caldbec Hill and Telham Hill. Norman scouts had already reported the English approach and William formed his army at Telham. These preliminary skirmishes between the vanguards began the battle before either side was fully deployed.

Questions & Answers

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