BattlefieldsAction at Brentford (1642)
English Civil War

Action at Brentford (1642)

1642
Middlesex, England
Also known as: Battle of Brentford November 1642 · Prince Rupert at Brentford
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Middlesex, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Parliamentarians (Holles / Brooke)
Forces
Parliamentarians c. 2,500–3,500; pitched engagement near London.
VS
Victor
Royalists (Prince Rupert)
Forces
Royalists c. 4,000–5,000
Outcome
Royalists stormed Brentford in surprise attack; two Parliamentary regiments scattered; advance on London
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the closest moments to a Royalist capture of London. After Edgehill, Charles I's army advanced towards London. Rupert stormed Brentford in a surprise attack on 12 November 1642, scattering two Parliamentary regiments and throwing the city into panic. However the Trained Bands of London marched out and confronted the Royalist army at Turnham Green — whereupon Charles withdrew. Had he pressed on, London might have fallen.

Casualties & Losses

c.500 Parliamentary soldiers captured or drowned in the Thames

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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