BattlefieldsBattle of Selby (1644 AD)
English Civil War

Battle of Selby (1644 AD)

1644
West Riding, England
Also known as: Selby 1644 · Fairfax destroys Royalist Yorkshire army
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
West Riding, England
Status
Registered · BOE15
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Royalists (Lord Belasyse)
Forces
Royalists (Belasyse) c. 2,500–3,500.
VS
Victor
Parliamentarians (Sir Thomas Fairfax)
Forces
Parliamentarians (Fairfax) c. 3,500–4,500
Outcome
Royalist northern army destroyed; Colonel Belasyse captured; path to York siege opened
The Battle

History & Significance

Fairfax returned from Hull and marched north with his reorganised army. He attacked Selby, held by the main Royalist field force under Lord Belasyse. In fierce fighting through the town the Royalists were routed; Belasyse was captured; Newcastle's covering army was destroyed. The battle opened the way for the Scottish-Parliamentary siege of York and directly led to Marston Moor. It was Fairfax's first major offensive victory.

Casualties & Losses

c.400 Royalists killed, 1,600 captured

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: BOE15.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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