
1066 – Battle of Stamford Bridge
Just five days prior, Harald Hardrada and Tostig Godwinson won a victory over the Northumbrian army at the battle of Fulford. Meanwhile, king Harald Godwinson remained in the south, keeping a close eye on the imminent invasion of William the Conqueror. But upon hearing about Fulford, he hurried north expanding his army with fyrds on the way. He caught the Norse army by surprise and defeated them soundly. Harald Hardrada and Tostig die in battle. Days later, he had to hurry back south to fight William who indeed had landed his troops at Hastings.
The battle of Stamford Bridge is seen as the last invasion of the Scandinavians on English soil.
![]() | As always, Baz’ Battles provides a great reconstruction. |
![]() | The location of the battle on UK Battlefields Trust. |
![]() | 10 facts about the battle on History Hit. |