BattlefieldsGreat Army Winter at Torksey 872
Early Medieval

Great Army Winter at Torksey 872

872
Lincolnshire, England
Also known as: Torksey Viking Camp 872
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Lincolnshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Mercia
Forces
Mercian forces (strength variable).
VS
Victor
Great Heathen Army
Forces
c. 3,000–4,000 Great Heathen Army (winter garrison)
Outcome
Great Army wintered at Torksey on the Trent; Mercia compelled to make peace and provision the army; Danes positioned for the Repton campaign of 873
The Battle

History & Significance

The Great Heathen Army wintered at Torksey on the River Trent in 872, using the confluence with the Foss Dyke to control Mercian river communications. Archaeological excavations at Torksey have revealed one of the most significant Viking camp sites ever found in England, with thousands of lead weights, hacksilver, and gaming pieces attesting a substantial and wealthy force. The army extorted provisions from Mercia without fighting.

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