BattlefieldsBattle of Wilton (871)
Early Medieval

Battle of Wilton (871)

871
Wiltshire, England
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Wiltshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Alfred of Wessex
Forces
Alfred's Wessex c.3,000–5,000.
VS
Victor
Great Heathen Army
Forces
Great Heathen Army c.5,000–8,000
Outcome
Danes feigned flight, turned, and defeated the West Saxons
The Battle

History & Significance

The last major engagement of the brutal 871 campaign. Alfred, now king, fought the Danes at Wilton. The West Saxons initially routed the Danish force, then were caught by the Danes' feigned retreat — a classic Viking tactic. Alfred was forced to buy peace. The year 871 saw nine named battles in which both Danes and West Saxons suffered enormous losses; Alfred's treaty bought breathing space but at a price.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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