BattlefieldsBattle of the River Idle
Early Medieval

Battle of the River Idle

616
Nottinghamshire, England
Also known as: Battle of the Idle
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Nottinghamshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Aethelfrith of Bernicia
Forces
c. 1,500–2,500 Bernicians; pivotal Northumbrian battle.
VS
Victor
Edwin of Deira / Raedwald of East Anglia
Forces
c. 1,500–2,500 East Angles/Deirans
Outcome
Aethelfrith killed; Edwin became king of Northumbria
The Battle

History & Significance

A pivotal battle in Northumbrian history. Raedwald of East Anglia, at Edwin's urging, refused to surrender the exiled Edwin to Aethelfrith and instead launched a surprise attack. Aethelfrith was slain, ending the Bernician dynasty's dominance and uniting Bernicia and Deira under Edwin, who would become the most powerful king in England and convert to Christianity.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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