Battle of Adwalton Moor

30 June, 1643

The Battle of Adwalton Moor (otherwise known as Atherton Moor) was an English Civil War battle fought on 30 June 1643. The location of the battle was Drighlington, in the suburbs of modern Bradford, Yorkshire.

The combatants at Adwalton Moor were a Parliamentary force under Lord Farirfax and Sir Thomas Fairfax, his son, against a Royalist army led by the Earl of Newcastle. Newcastle had about 10,000 men under his command, and was advancing on Bradford, which was a known Royalist stronghold.

Despite the fact that he had far fewer numbers of troops (perhaps 3,000-4,000 men), Fairfax decided to advance against the Royalist army and intercept them before they reached the town. It was a mistake, as the Royalists easily defeated the Parliamentary force and forced them to retreat back to Hull. This gave the Royalist forces the freedom to place most of the West Riding of Yorkshire under their control.

Time period(s): Stuart