BattlefieldsBattle of Farnham (893 AD)
Early Medieval

Battle of Farnham (893 AD)

893
Surrey, England
Also known as: Alfred defeats Haesten at Farnham · Battle of Farnham 893
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Surrey, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Danes (Haesten)
VS
Victor
Wessex (Edward the Elder / Alfred's son)
Outcome
Danish army defeated and pursued; Danes crossed the Thames at Sashes; eventually surrendered
The Battle

History & Significance

One of Alfred the Great's most decisive victories during the renewed Danish assault of 893. Edward (Alfred's son) caught Haesten's army returning from a raid in the Midlands and routed them at Farnham. The Danes fled across the Thames and were besieged at Thorney Island. The victory demonstrated that Alfred's military reforms — including the burh network and standing field army — were effective against large Danish forces.

Forces Involved

Wessex: c. 3,000–4,000 fyrd. Danes: c. 2,000–3,000 warriors.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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