BattlefieldsBattle of Sourton Down
English Civil War

Battle of Sourton Down

1643
England
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Royalists
Forces
Parliamentarians: * 108 cavalry * 1,000 infantry
VS
Victor
Parliamentarians
Forces
Royalists: * 3,000 infantry * 300 cavalry * 300 dragoons * 4 guns
Outcome
Parliamentarian victory
The Battle

History & Significance

The Battle of Sourton Down took place on 25 April 1643, near Sourton, in Devon, during the First English Civil War. A Parliamentarian force under James Chudleigh defeated a Royalist army under Sir Ralph Hopton. Casualties on both sides were light, and the result had little impact on the strategic position in the West Country. Hoping to surprise their opponents, the Royalist army undertook a night march on the Parliamentarian base in Okehampton. However, they in turn were ambushed by a small force of cavalry led by Chudleigh, and routed.

Suspected site. The exact location is uncertain.
Casualties & Losses

Royalists: 60 dead | Parliamentarians: Minimal

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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Sources