BattlefieldsBattle of Hedgeley Moor 1464
Medieval

Battle of Hedgeley Moor 1464

1464
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Hedgeley Moor
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Lancastrians and Scottish allies (Sir Ralph Percy)
Forces
Lancastrian remnants
VS
Victor
England (Montagu)
Forces
c.5,000-8,000 each side; Yorkists (Montagu)
Outcome
Montagu defeated Lancastrian force; Sir Ralph Percy killed; Lancastrian cause in Northumberland critically weakened
The Battle

History & Significance

Hedgeley Moor was the penultimate Lancastrian attempt to retain control of Northumberland with Scottish backing. Sir Ralph Percy, who had repeatedly changed sides, was killed while holding the pass with legendary determination — his last words were reportedly 'I have saved the bird in my bosom.' The battle opened the road to the follow-up victory at Hexham a month later, which effectively ended organised Lancastrian resistance in the north.

Casualties & Losses

Sir Ralph Percy killed; Lancastrian force routed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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