BattlefieldsBattle of Edgehill
English Civil War

Battle of Edgehill

1642
Warwickshire, England
Also known as: Battle of Edge Hill · First Battle of the Civil War
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Warwickshire, England
Status
Registered · EHB22
The Combatants

Who Fought

Forces
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
c.15,000 Parliamentarians (Essex)
VS
Victor
Indecisive
Forces
c.14,000 Royalists (Prince Rupert, Charles I)
Outcome
First pitched battle of the Civil War; both sides claimed victory; road to London remained open
The Battle

History & Significance

The first great battle of the English Civil War. Charles I marched from Shrewsbury and encountered the Parliamentary army at Edgehill in Warwickshire. Prince Rupert's cavalry routed the Parliamentary horse on both wings but galloped off the field to plunder — allowing the Parliamentary infantry to hold the centre. The battle ended inconclusively at nightfall with both sides having suffered about 1,500 killed. Charles then marched on London, reaching Turnham Green before being blocked. Edgehill is now protected as a battlefield site.

Casualties & Losses

c.1,500 killed on each side; many wounded

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: EHB22.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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