BattlefieldsPrayer Book Rebellion — Battle of Clyst Heath 1549
Tudor

Prayer Book Rebellion — Battle of Clyst Heath 1549

1549
Devon, England
Also known as: Clyst Heath 1549
Era
Tudor
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Devon, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Western rebels
Forces
Western rebels c.5,000–8,000.
VS
Victor
Crown (Lord Russell)
Forces
Lord Russell c.4,000–6,000
Outcome
Second major engagement on the approaches to Exeter; rebel camp at Clyst Heath stormed; hundreds killed
The Battle

History & Significance

Clyst Heath was a follow-up to Clyst St Mary, as Russell's forces cleared the Exe valley approaches to reach besieged Exeter. The rebels had encamped in strength and had to be driven out in a hard fight. A notorious episode: after the battle, prisoners were ordered to have their ears cut off and then released — a deliberately humiliating punishment that inflamed rebel hatred of the crown forces without breaking rebel resistance.

Casualties & Losses

c.300 rebels killed; many prisoners mutilated

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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