BattlefieldsEric Bloodaxe Return to York — Third Reign 952-954
Early Medieval

Eric Bloodaxe Return to York — Third Reign 952-954

952–954
North Yorkshire, England
Also known as: Eric Bloodaxe third reign · Final Viking king of Jorvik
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
North Yorkshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Northumbrian English
Forces
Northumbrian English c.500–1,000; raiding campaign.
VS
Victor
Eric Bloodaxe (initially)
Forces
Eric Bloodaxe c.400–800
Outcome
Eric seized York for the third time in 952; ruled until 954 when betrayed and killed at Stainmore
The Battle

History & Significance

Eric Bloodaxe's third and final tenure as king of Jorvik lasted two years. He is recorded raiding in Westmorland and possibly Scotland to supplement his revenues. The Northumbrian nobility's decision to call him back — despite Eadred having repeatedly expelled him — reflected the deep ambivalence of northern England toward southern English overlordship. His death at Stainmore in 954 permanently ended Viking kingship in England.

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