BattlefieldsBattle of Northampton (1460)
Medieval

Battle of Northampton (1460)

1460
Northamptonshire, England
Also known as: Second Battle of Northampton · Northampton 1460
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Northamptonshire, England
Status
Registered · EHB12
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Lancastrians (Henry VI)
Forces
c.5,000 Lancastrians in fortified camp
VS
Victor
Yorkists (Warwick / Edward of March)
Forces
c.10,000 Yorkists
Outcome
Lancastrian army routed; Henry VI captured again; King taken to London
The Battle

History & Significance

The Yorkist lords returned from Calais and marched north. The Lancastrian army behind earthworks at Northampton was betrayed by Lord Grey of Ruthyn, who let the Yorkists in through his sector. The battle lasted under an hour in a thunderstorm that rendered Lancastrian artillery useless. The Duke of Buckingham, the Constable and the Treasurer were killed. Henry VI was found sitting helplessly in his tent and escorted to London.

Casualties & Losses

c.300 killed including three senior Lancastrian lords

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: EHB12.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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