BattlefieldsBattle of Brentford (1642)
English Civil War

Battle of Brentford (1642)

1642
Middlesex, England
Also known as: Prince Rupert storms Brentford 1642 · Brentford November 1642
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Middlesex, England
Status
Registered · EHB51
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Parliament (Holles and Brooke's regiments)
Forces
Parliament c. 2,000; surprise attack on two regiments
VS
Victor
Royalists (Prince Rupert)
Forces
Royalists c. 2,500
Outcome
Brentford stormed; two Parliamentary regiments driven into the Thames; large quantities of ammunition and weapons seized
The Battle

History & Significance

Prince Rupert launched a surprise attack on Brentford during negotiations between King and Parliament. The two Parliamentary regiments defending the town were driven through the streets and into the Thames with significant losses. Many soldiers drowned. The attack outraged Parliamentary opinion — it was seen as a treacherous violation of the peace talks — and produced a massive turnout the next day at Turnham Green that halted the Royalist advance.

Casualties & Losses

Several hundred Parliamentary soldiers killed or drowned

Registered Historic Battlefield

This battlefield is listed on the Register of Historic Battlefields — a national designation identifying Britain's most significant battle sites for protection and further research. Reference: EHB51.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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