BattlefieldsPevensey to Hastings Foraging March 1066
Early Medieval

Pevensey to Hastings Foraging March 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 levies
VS
Victor
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
Normans c.7000-8000
Outcome
William established his base at Hastings and began systematic ravaging to draw Harold south
The Battle

History & Significance

William moved his army from Pevensey to Hastings during late September and early October 1066, systematically foraging and burning the surrounding countryside to provoke Harold into battle and to feed the army. Norman accounts describe the deliberate ravaging of Harold's personal estates in the Hastings area, a calculated insult intended to force a rapid English response. The march established the base from which the campaign would be fought.

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