The First Battle of St Albans occurred on 22 May 1455 in St Albans, located 22 miles (35 km) north of London. The battle marked the onset of the Wars of the Roses, featuring a confrontation between the Yorkist forces, led by Richard, Duke of York, and his allies, the Earls of Salisbury and Warwick, against a royal army commanded by Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset. The Lancastrian army, numbering approximately 2,000 troops, took position in the town, with defensive measures established along the Tonman Ditch and at key points in Sopwell Lane and Shropshire Lane. The Yorkist forces, totaling around 7,000, camped in Keyfield to the east of the town.

Following failed negotiations between the two sides, Richard of York decided to launch an attack. The initial assaults by the Yorkists against the barricades near St Peter's Church resulted in heavy casualties, as many of the Lancastrian troops were unprepared for combat. Warwick, however, led a successful flanking maneuver through the town's back lanes, catching the Lancastrians off guard in the market square. The ensuing chaos led to the rout of Somerset's forces, with significant casualties among the Lancastrian leadership, including the deaths of Somerset and the Earl of Northumberland. The battle lasted no more than half an hour, characterized by the rapid and unexpected charge of Warwick's forces.

Casualty estimates indicate that fewer than sixty men were killed during the engagement, despite the scale of the forces involved. The political ramifications were significant, as York captured King Henry VI, effectively restoring his own power and positioning himself as Lord Protector. The battle established Warwick's reputation as a formidable military leader, setting the stage for future conflicts in the Wars of the Roses.

From June 24 to July 14, 1461, Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland was besieged during the Wars of the Roses. The castle was held by a garrison loyal to the Lancastrian cause, commanded by Sir Ralph Percy, who had approximately 200 men under his command. The siege was initiated by forces loyal to the Yorkist faction, led by Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, who commanded a much larger force estimated at around 3,000 troops. Warwick's forces included archers and men-at-arms, and they employed artillery, including cannons, to breach the castle's defenses.

The siege began with Warwick's troops surrounding the castle and establishing a blockade to cut off supplies. On June 30, Warwick's forces launched an assault on the castle walls, but the defenders repelled the attack, inflicting casualties on the besieging troops. Over the following weeks, Warwick's men continued to bombard the castle, while the defenders faced dwindling supplies and increasing pressure. By July 12, the situation for the Lancastrian garrison had become dire, with reports indicating that food and water were running low.

On July 14, after nearly three weeks of siege, Sir Ralph Percy and his men surrendered to Warwick's forces. The terms of surrender allowed the defenders to leave the castle safely, but they were required to relinquish their arms. The siege resulted in significant casualties, although exact numbers are not recorded. The successful capture of Bamburgh Castle marked a strategic victory for the Yorkists in the ongoing conflict of the Wars of the Roses.

The Siege of Alnwick Castle commenced in July 1461 during the Wars of the Roses, as forces loyal to the Yorkist King Edward IV sought to consolidate control over northern England. The castle, held by the Lancastrian Lord Ralph Percy, was a strategic stronghold. Edward IV dispatched a significant force, estimated at around 10,000 troops, under the command of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, to besiege the castle. The siege was characterized by a series of assaults and attempts to breach the castle's defenses, which included a combination of artillery and infantry tactics. The Lancastrian defenders, numbering approximately 1,000, managed to withstand the initial assaults, utilizing the castle's fortifications to repel the Yorkist advances.

Throughout the siege, which extended into the winter months, the Yorkist forces employed various strategies to weaken the defenders, including cutting off supplies and launching direct attacks on the castle walls. The situation for the besieged became increasingly dire as food and resources dwindled. By January 1462, after months of sustained pressure and the harsh winter conditions, the defenders were forced to surrender. The terms of surrender allowed the surviving Lancastrian troops to leave the castle, but Lord Percy was captured and later executed. The siege resulted in significant casualties, although exact numbers remain unclear, with many of the Lancastrian defenders succumbing to starvation and exposure during the prolonged conflict.

The successful capture of Alnwick Castle marked a pivotal moment in the Yorkist campaign, further solidifying Edward IV's control over the north of England. The siege demonstrated the effectiveness of siege warfare during this period, as well as the strategic importance of key strongholds in the ongoing conflict between the Yorkists and Lancastrians. The fall of Alnwick Castle not only diminished Lancastrian power in the region but also served as a warning to other strongholds still loyal to the Lancastrian cause.

The Siege of Dunstanburgh Castle commenced in July 1461 during the Wars of the Roses, as forces loyal to the Yorkist cause sought to capture the stronghold held by the Lancastrians. The castle, located on the Northumberland coast, was under the command of Sir Ralph Percy, who had a garrison of approximately 200 men. The siege was initiated by a Yorkist army led by Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, who commanded a larger force estimated at around 3,000 troops. Warwick's strategy involved surrounding the castle and cutting off supplies, aiming to force a surrender.

Throughout the siege, the Yorkists employed artillery to bombard the castle, while the defenders attempted to withstand the assault and maintain their morale. The siege progressed into the winter months, with both sides facing harsh conditions. By January 1462, the situation for the Lancastrians had become increasingly dire due to dwindling supplies and the relentless pressure from Warwick's forces. On January 17, 1462, after months of resistance, Sir Ralph Percy and his men capitulated, surrendering the castle to the Yorkists.

The capture of Dunstanburgh Castle marked a significant victory for the Yorkists, consolidating their control over Northumberland. The siege resulted in minimal casualties reported on either side, but the loss of the castle was a strategic blow to the Lancastrian faction, further weakening their position in the ongoing conflict. The successful siege demonstrated the effectiveness of Warwick's military tactics and contributed to the shifting balance of power during the Wars of the Roses.

The Siege of Norham Castle occurred in 1460 during the Wars of the Roses, primarily involving forces loyal to the Yorkist faction and those supporting the Lancastrians. The castle, strategically located on the River Tweed in Northumberland, was held by the Yorkists under the command of Sir Robert Ogle. The Lancastrian forces, led by Lord Montagu, sought to capture the castle to strengthen their position in the region. The siege began in late July 1460, with Montagu's troops numbering approximately 3,000 men, while Ogle's garrison consisted of around 200 defenders.

As the siege progressed, Montagu's forces employed artillery to bombard the castle, aiming to breach its defenses. The defenders, however, mounted a determined resistance, utilizing the castle's fortifications to repel assaults. The siege lasted for several weeks, with skirmishes occurring as Montagu attempted to cut off supplies to the castle. On August 12, 1460, after enduring significant pressure and dwindling resources, Ogle negotiated terms of surrender, leading to the castle's capitulation. The Lancastrians suffered some casualties during the siege, but specific numbers are not recorded.

Following the surrender, the Lancastrians took control of Norham Castle, which served as a vital stronghold in their campaign. The capture of the castle marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, as it allowed the Lancastrians to consolidate their power in the North. The siege exemplified the tactical challenges faced by both factions during the Wars of the Roses, highlighting the importance of fortified positions in medieval warfare.

The Battle of Blore Heath occurred on 23 September 1459 at Blore Heath, Staffordshire, during the Wars of the Roses. The Lancastrian forces, commanded by Lord Audley, positioned approximately 10,000 men behind a defensive hedge on the heath, anticipating the approach of the Yorkist army led by the Earl of Salisbury, which numbered around 5,000. As Salisbury's troops advanced from Middleham Castle towards Ludlow Castle, they were alerted to the Lancastrian presence. Rather than retreat, Salisbury organized his men into battle formation, utilizing supply wagons to protect his right flank and preparing for an engagement across a brook that separated the two armies.

The battle commenced with an inconclusive archery exchange, followed by Salisbury's strategic withdrawal of some troops, which lured the Lancastrians into a cavalry charge across the brook. This maneuver resulted in significant casualties for the Lancastrians, who then regrouped for a second assault, managing to cross the brook and engage in close combat. During this intense fighting, Lord Audley was killed, leading to a collapse of Lancastrian command. The remaining forces, now under Lord Dudley, attempted a foot attack with about 4,000 men, but this also failed, resulting in further disarray as some Lancastrians turned against their own side. The Yorkists capitalized on the chaos, pursuing the fleeing Lancastrians throughout the night.

The battle concluded with the Yorkists inflicting heavy losses on the Lancastrians, with at least 2,000 killed compared to nearly 1,000 Yorkist casualties. The Yorkist victory at Blore Heath marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between the houses of Lancaster and York, as Salisbury sought to advance towards Ludlow amidst concerns of potential Lancastrian reinforcements in the area.

The Rout of Ludford Bridge occurred on 12 October 1459, marking a significant confrontation in the early phase of the Wars of the Roses. The Yorkist forces, led by Richard of York, the Earl of Salisbury, and the Earl of Warwick, found themselves outnumbered two to one by the Lancastrian army, which was commanded by King Henry VI and the Duke of Buckingham. The Yorkists had retreated to a fortified position near Ludlow, Shropshire, where they constructed defensive ditches and barricades, but morale was low due to the presence of King Henry, who was seen as a rallying figure for the Lancastrians. The Yorkists attempted to maintain their position but faced defections, notably from Andrew Trollope and his 600 men, who switched allegiance to the Lancastrians during the night.

As the situation deteriorated, York, Salisbury, and Warwick decided to abandon their troops and retreated to Ludlow, leaving their forces leaderless. The following morning, on 13 October, the Yorkist soldiers, now without direction, surrendered to King Henry and were granted pardons. Among those left behind were York's family, including his wife Cecily Neville and their children, who were later found at the Ludlow Market Cross and placed under the care of the Duchess's sister, Anne, the wife of the Duke of Buckingham. The Lancastrian troops subsequently plundered Ludlow, engaging in acts of violence and drunkenness as they celebrated their apparent victory.

The battle, while largely bloodless, represented a critical setback for the Yorkists, who had hoped to consolidate their power. The aftermath saw York and his son Edmund fleeing to Ireland, while Salisbury, Warwick, and York's eldest son Edward sought refuge in South Wales before eventually making their way to Calais. Despite the initial success of the Lancastrians, discontent with their governance soon emerged, setting the stage for further conflict in the ongoing struggle for control of the English crown.

The Battle of Sandwich occurred on 15 January 1460, off the coast of Sandwich during the Wars of the Roses. The Yorkist forces, led by Sir John Dynham, Sir John Wenlock, and the Earl of Warwick, engaged a Lancastrian fleet. The Yorkists, having recently fled to Calais after their defeat at the Battle of Ludford Bridge, launched a surprise attack at dawn while the Lancastrian officers were still asleep. Dynham's forces overwhelmed the enemy, capturing several key ships from the king's navy, which were described as 'well furnished with ordinaunce and artillarie.' The exact number of ships and troops involved remains unclear due to limited historical records.

The battle was significant in securing control of the English Channel for the Yorkists. Following the engagement, a small Yorkist army of approximately two thousand men landed in Kent from Calais. This force was able to establish a foothold in the region, which had been vulnerable to French pirate raids during the civil unrest in England. The successful capture of Sandwich allowed Warwick to land there with Edward, Earl of March, and Richard, Earl of Salisbury, on 26 June 1460, further consolidating Yorkist power in the area.

The victory at Sandwich not only bolstered Yorkist morale but also facilitated the recruitment of additional forces in Kent. The Yorkist commanders maintained popularity among the local populace, leading to defections from those tasked with opposing them. This growing army advanced towards London, arriving on 2 July 1460, where they were welcomed by local leaders. The Yorkists then proceeded to confront Henry VI and his Lancastrian forces at the Battle of Northampton on 10 July 1460.

In June 1460, Yorkist nobles, having fled to Calais after a failed rebellion against King Henry VI, launched an invasion of southeastern England, landing at Sandwich. They garnered significant support from the populace of Kent and the merchants of London, leading to their entry into London on 2 July. The Lancastrian garrison at the Tower of London, commanded by Lord Scales, responded by firing cannons and wildfire into the streets, resulting in civilian casualties. While the majority of the Yorkist forces advanced north to confront the King's army, 2,000 men under the Earl of Salisbury remained to besiege the Tower, supported by local militia and citizens who utilized bombards to breach the Tower's defenses.

On 10 July, the Yorkists achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Northampton, capturing King Henry VI. Following this, the siege intensified, with the garrison at the Tower suffering from starvation and dwindling morale. By 19 July, Lord Hungerford, representing the garrison, surrendered the Tower after securing assurances for the safety of himself and Lord Scales. However, Scales attempted to escape by boat that night but was recognized and killed by a mob, his body later displayed in Southwark.

The siege marked a significant moment in the Wars of the Roses, as the Yorkists consolidated power in London following the surrender. The capture of the Tower and the King shifted the balance of power, leading to further military engagements and political maneuvers in the ongoing conflict between the rival houses of Lancaster and York.

The Battle of Northampton occurred on 10 July 1460 near the River Nene in Northamptonshire, marking a significant engagement in the Wars of the Roses. The forces of King Henry VI, loyal to the House of Lancaster, were positioned defensively at Delapré Abbey, numbering approximately 5,000 men, primarily men-at-arms, and equipped with field artillery. Opposing them were the Yorkist forces led by Edward, Earl of March, and Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, who had landed at Sandwich with around 10,000 troops on 2 July. Warwick's army advanced towards Northampton after being denied access to the king on multiple occasions, culminating in a direct confrontation at 2 PM.

As the Yorkists approached, they faced adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain that rendered the Lancastrian artillery ineffective. The battle commenced with a fierce exchange of arrows, but the tide turned when Lord Grey of Ruthin, commanding a portion of the Lancastrian forces, betrayed his allies by ordering his men to surrender without resistance. This act of treachery allowed the Yorkists to penetrate the Lancastrian camp easily. The battle lasted approximately thirty minutes, during which the Lancastrian defenders were unable to maneuver effectively within their fortifications, leading to a rout. Key Lancastrian leaders, including the Duke of Buckingham and the Earl of Shrewsbury, were killed, and around 300 Lancastrians lost their lives in the engagement.

In the aftermath, King Henry VI was captured by an archer named Henry Mountfort. He was subsequently found in his tent by Warwick, March, and Lord Fauconberg, who escorted him with respect to Delapré Abbey and then to Northampton, ultimately leading him to London where the garrison surrendered shortly thereafter.

The Battle of Worksop occurred on 16 December 1460, near the town of Worksop in Nottinghamshire, during the Wars of the Roses. This skirmish was part of the campaign leading to the Battle of Wakefield, which took place on 30 December. The Duke of York, accompanied by the Earl of Salisbury and a contingent of armed men, was traveling from London to York when a portion of his forces, likely the vanguard or scouts, encountered troops loyal to the Duke of Somerset. Somerset had marched north from Corfe Castle in Dorset, aiming to join the Lancastrian army based in Hull before advancing to Pontefract.

The exact number of troops involved in the skirmish remains unclear, as Somerset had divided his cavalry and infantry to expedite his movement northward. It is believed that York's forces diverted from the Great North Road towards Sandal Castle, although the rationale for passing through Worksop is not definitively known. The area was under Lancastrian control, with the nearest Yorkist stronghold located in Doncaster. At the time, widespread flooding complicated travel and limited food supplies, prompting York's men to possibly scout for provisions or assess the Lancastrian presence in the area. Additionally, there may have been motives of retribution against Worksop Manor, linked to the deaths of the Earl of Shrewsbury and his brother Christopher Talbot at the Battle of Northampton earlier that year.

Contemporary accounts of the battle are scarce, with the primary source being William of Worcester's Annales rerum Anglicarum. He noted the skirmish but provided little detail on the events or casualties. The only physical evidence suggesting a conflict may be a skull fragment found in Worksop Priory, which contains a bodkin arrowhead. This artifact is displayed in the church's north aisle, indicating the historical significance of the site, despite the lack of comprehensive records regarding the battle itself.

The Battle of Wakefield occurred on 30 December 1460 near Sandal Magna, close to Wakefield in northern England. The conflict was fought between the forces loyal to King Henry VI of the House of Lancaster, led by the Duke of Somerset and Lord Clifford, and the army of Richard, Duke of York, who was the rival claimant to the throne. York had previously occupied Sandal Castle and, facing a Lancastrian army estimated at 15,000 men, he commanded a force of approximately 8,000 to 9,000 troops. On the day of the battle, York, possibly misled by false intelligence or underestimating the enemy, decided to sortie from the castle to engage the Lancastrians, believing he could defeat them in open combat.

The Lancastrian forces executed a strategic maneuver, with half of their army advancing openly while the remainder remained concealed in the surrounding woods. As York's troops moved out of the castle, they were ambushed from multiple sides, leading to a rapid disintegration of their formation. The Yorkists were encircled and overwhelmed, resulting in a swift defeat. Richard of York was killed during the battle, with accounts varying on whether he was slain in combat or captured and executed. His son, Edmund, Earl of Rutland, attempted to flee but was caught and killed, while other prominent Yorkist leaders also faced death or capture. Casualty estimates for the Yorkist side range from 700 to 2,500, while Lancastrian losses were reported at around 200.

Following the battle, the bodies of York, Rutland, and other Yorkist leaders were displayed as a warning, with York's head adorned with a paper crown. The defeat at Wakefield marked a significant moment in the Wars of the Roses, intensifying the conflict between the rival factions and leading to further bloodshed in subsequent battles.

The Battle of Mortimer's Cross occurred on 2 February 1461 near Kingsland, Herefordshire, during the Wars of the Roses. The conflict pitted the forces of Edward, Earl of March, against an army led by Jasper Tudor and his father, Owen Tudor, loyal to King Henry VI of the House of Lancaster. Edward's forces, numbering approximately 5,000 men, included notable supporters such as Lord Audley, Lord Grey of Wilton, and Sir William Herbert. The Lancastrian army, although smaller by about 1,000 men, comprised Welsh troops, French and Breton mercenaries, and Irish soldiers under James Butler, Earl of Wiltshire and Ormond. Edward sought to prevent the Lancastrians from joining the main Lancastrian force advancing towards London, prompting him to move north to Mortimer's Cross.

As dawn broke on the day of the battle, a parhelion phenomenon, resembling three suns, appeared in the sky, which Edward interpreted as a sign of divine favor. Following the initial skirmishes, the Lancastrians launched an attack, with Butler's division forcing Edward's right wing to retreat. However, Owen Tudor's attempt to encircle Edward's left flank failed, leading to a rout of the Lancastrian forces. The Yorkists successfully held off Pembroke's center division, and as the battle progressed, the Lancastrians broke and fled, with some pursued as far as Hereford, where Owen Tudor was captured and executed.

The battle's outcome significantly impacted the Yorkist cause, as it disrupted the Lancastrian plans to advance towards London. Edward's victory at Mortimer's Cross bolstered his position, leading to his eventual proclamation as King Edward IV of England. The precise details of the battle's alignment and location have been debated, with various interpretations suggesting different formations and strategies employed by both sides during the engagement.

The Second Battle of St Albans occurred on 17 February 1461, during the Wars of the Roses, in St Albans, Hertfordshire. The Yorkist army, commanded by the Earl of Warwick, aimed to block the Lancastrian advance towards London. Warwick's forces were positioned along the main road from the north, utilizing fixed defenses, including cannon and obstacles, while his troops were organized into three divisions: the Main Battle led by Warwick, the Forward Battle under the Duke of Norfolk, and the Rear Battle commanded by John Neville. The Lancastrian army, led by the Duke of Somerset, the Earl of Northumberland, and Lord Clifford, executed a surprise flanking maneuver, capturing Dunstable the night before the battle and attacking St Albans at dawn.

The initial Lancastrian assault was repelled by Yorkist archers, but they regrouped and launched a second attack through Folly Lane and Catherine Street, successfully outflanking the Yorkists. As the battle progressed, the damp conditions hindered the effectiveness of the Yorkist artillery, and Warwick struggled to coordinate his forces. The Rear Battle was engaged and dispersed, and confusion arose within the Yorkist ranks, possibly exacerbated by the defection of the Lovelaces. By late afternoon, the Lancastrians had pushed northward from the town, forcing Warwick to withdraw with approximately 4,000 men to Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire. Estimates of casualties vary, with one chronicler reporting around 1,916 dead.

During the battle, King Henry VI, who had been captured by Warwick, remained unharmed, and after the Lancastrian victory, he knighted several of his supporters, including Andrew Trollope and William Tailboys. Despite their success, the Lancastrians did not advance to London due to the city's defenses and the news of Edward of March's victory at Mortimer's Cross. The Lancastrian forces retreated, losing many soldiers who deserted with their plunder. Edward of March and Warwick entered London on 2 March, leading to Edward's proclamation as King Edward IV, solidifying his claim to the throne following a decisive victory at the Battle of Towton shortly thereafter.

The Battle of Ferrybridge occurred on 28 March 1461, as a preliminary engagement in the Wars of the Roses between the Yorkists and Lancastrians. Following Edward IV's proclamation as king, he advanced north with a substantial force towards the Lancastrian position along the Aire River in Yorkshire. On 27 March, the Earl of Warwick led the vanguard and successfully crossed the river at Ferrybridge, despite the destruction of the bridge by the Lancastrians. This crossing was perilous, resulting in significant casualties due to the freezing waters and a barrage of arrows from a determined Lancastrian contingent. Once the crossing was secured, Warwick's forces established a camp on the northern bank and began repairs on the bridge.

The following morning, Warwick's troops were ambushed by a larger Lancastrian force led by Lord Clifford and John, Lord Neville. Caught off guard, the Yorkists faced heavy losses, including Warwick's second-in-command, Lord FitzWalter, who was mortally wounded while attempting to rally the men. The Bastard of Salisbury, Warwick's half-brother, was also killed in the skirmish. Warwick himself sustained an injury from an arrow to the leg during the chaos. Historical accounts, including those by Jean de Wavrin, suggest that nearly 3,000 men perished in the fighting.

As the battle unfolded, Edward IV arrived with his main army, only to find the bridge in ruins. Warwick dispatched his uncle, Lord Fauconberg, with Yorkist cavalry to pursue Lord Clifford, who had retreated upstream. Fauconberg engaged Clifford in a fierce struggle, ultimately killing him with an arrow to the throat after he had removed his protective armor to issue commands more effectively. This engagement marked a significant moment in the lead-up to the larger Battle of Towton.

The Battle of Towton occurred on 29 March 1461, during the Wars of the Roses, near Towton in North Yorkshire. It involved approximately 50,000 soldiers engaged in a ten-hour conflict amidst a snowstorm on Palm Sunday. The Yorkist forces, led by Edward IV, faced the Lancastrians, commanded by Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset. The Yorkists initially found themselves outnumbered, as part of their army under the Duke of Norfolk had not yet arrived. However, Lord Fauconberg, commanding the Yorkist archers, utilized the strong wind to outdistance the Lancastrian arrows, prompting the Lancastrians to abandon their defensive positions. The ensuing hand-to-hand combat was intense and exhausting, with the Yorkists eventually gaining the upper hand as Norfolk's reinforcements arrived, leading to a rout of the Lancastrian forces.

As the battle progressed, the Lancastrians, overwhelmed and fatigued, began to flee, discarding their armor for speed. Many were killed in the chaos, either by Yorkist pursuers or by drowning in the Cock Beck as they attempted to escape. The aftermath of the battle saw significant casualties, with estimates ranging from 2,800 to 28,000, though contemporary sources often exaggerated numbers. Notable Lancastrian leaders, including the Earl of Northumberland and Lord Clifford, were killed, while the Yorkists suffered minimal losses. The battle's brutality was later underscored by archaeological findings, revealing mass graves and severe injuries among the dead.

The outcome of the Battle of Towton decisively weakened the House of Lancaster, leading to the exile of Henry VI and the consolidation of power by Edward IV. The battle marked a pivotal moment in the Wars of the Roses, affirming Edward's claim to the throne and significantly altering the political landscape of England. The site of the battle has since been commemorated, with the Towton Cross erected in 1929 to honor those who fought and died there.

The Battle of Piltown occurred in 1462 near Piltown, County Kilkenny, during the Wars of the Roses. The conflict was primarily between the forces of Thomas FitzGerald, 7th Earl of Desmond, a Yorkist and head of the Dublin government, and John Butler, 6th Earl of Ormond, who supported the Lancastrian cause. FitzGerald commanded a well-organized army, while Ormond's forces were significantly outnumbered. The battle unfolded with intense fighting, resulting in a decisive victory for FitzGerald and his Yorkist supporters.

Ormond's army suffered substantial losses, with reports indicating over a thousand casualties. This defeat effectively extinguished Lancastrian ambitions in Ireland and solidified FitzGerald's control over the region for the next fifty years. Following the battle, the Ormond family was forced into exile, although they would later receive a pardon from Edward IV. The Battle of Piltown stands as the only significant military engagement in the Lordship of Ireland during the Wars of the Roses and is emblematic of the longstanding rivalry between the FitzGerald and Butler dynasties.

The Battle of Hedgeley Moor occurred on 25 April 1464, in Northumberland, between a Yorkist army led by John Neville, Lord Montagu, and a Lancastrian force commanded by Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset. The Yorkists, numbering approximately 5,000 men, were on a mission to escort Scottish negotiators to York amidst rising Lancastrian activity in the region. The Lancastrian army, also around 5,000 strong, included notable figures such as Lords Ros and Hungerford and Sir Ralph Percy.

The battle commenced with an exchange of archery fire, after which Montagu advanced across 1,500 yards of moorland. The Lancastrian left flank, consisting of about 2,000 men under Lords Ros and Hungerford, faltered and broke, leading to a collapse of the entire Lancastrian line. The Yorkists pressed their advantage, causing most of the Lancastrians to flee the battlefield. Sir Ralph Percy, remaining with his household retainers, made a final stand but was ultimately slain, reportedly uttering the words, 'I have saved the bird in my bosom' as he fell.

The defeat of the Lancastrian forces at Hedgeley Moor facilitated the safe passage of the Scottish negotiators to York, where a peaceful agreement was reached. The battle marked a significant Yorkist victory during the Wars of the Roses, contributing to the ongoing conflict between the rival factions.

The Battle of Hexham occurred on 15 May 1464 near the town of Hexham in Northumberland, marking a decisive moment in the Wars of the Roses. The Yorkist forces, led by John Neville, later the 1st Marquess of Montagu, comprised approximately 3,000 to 4,000 men. They faced the Lancastrian army, commanded by the Duke of Somerset, who had gathered support in the region following earlier conflicts. The Lancastrians had suffered a defeat at the Battle of Hedgeley Moor on 25 April 1464, and their position was further weakened as they prepared for battle near Linnels Bridge over the Devil's Water.

On the night of 12–13 May, the Yorkists crossed to the south bank of the Tyne and positioned themselves to attack. The Lancastrians, caught off guard, hastily deployed their troops in three detachments in a meadow near the river. As the Yorkists charged down from higher ground on the morning of 14 May, the right detachment, commanded by Lord Roos, panicked and fled before any engagement occurred. The remaining Lancastrian forces, unable to maneuver, were quickly overwhelmed as the Yorkists exploited the opening at the east end of Linnel's Meadow. The Lancastrian morale collapsed, leading to a chaotic rout where many soldiers drowned in the river or were trapped in West Dipton Wood, ultimately surrendering to the advancing Yorkists.

Following the battle, John Neville executed thirty leading Lancastrians, including Henry Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, and Lord Roos, effectively dismantling the Lancastrian leadership in the north. The defeat at Hexham significantly diminished Lancastrian resistance, with only a few castles remaining under their control. Henry VI, who had been kept away from the battle, managed to escape and sought refuge in various locations across northern England, but his position weakened as the Yorkists consolidated their power.

During the Wars of the Roses, Harlech Castle, held by Lancastrian forces, became a focal point of conflict. In 1460, following the Battle of Northampton, Queen Margaret of Anjou sought refuge in the castle, which was then commanded by Dafydd ap Ieuan. The castle's strategic position and natural defenses allowed it to withstand Yorkist assaults from 1461 to 1468, making it the last significant Lancastrian stronghold. The garrison, benefiting from a supply route by sea, conducted operations against Yorkist forces, including raids led by Sir Richard Tunstall in 1466 and Jasper Tudor's landing with French reinforcements in 1468.

In response to the continued Lancastrian resistance, Edward IV mobilized a substantial force, estimated at up to 10,000 troops, to besiege Harlech. The siege commenced in July 1468 and lasted for approximately one month. On 14 August 1468, after enduring the prolonged siege, the small garrison surrendered, marking the end of Lancastrian control over the castle. This event inspired the song 'Men of Harlech,' which commemorates the siege and the valor of its defenders.

Following the siege, Harlech Castle fell into disrepair, particularly during the English Civil War, which began in 1642. The castle was held by Royalist forces under Colonel William Owen, who undertook repairs to the fortifications. A lengthy siege ensued from June 1646 until 15 March 1647, when the garrison of 44 men surrendered to Parliamentary forces led by Major-General Thomas Mytton. This surrender marked the last mainland royal fortress to capitulate in the conflict, leading to the castle's partial destruction to prevent future Royalist use.

The Battle of Edgcote occurred on 24 July 1469, approximately 6 miles (9.7 km) northeast of Banbury in Oxfordshire, during the Wars of the Roses. The conflict pitted a royal army, led by the earls of Pembroke and Devon, against a rebel force aligned with the Earl of Warwick. Pembroke's forces numbered between 3,000 and 5,000 Welsh knights and spearmen, while Devon commanded an additional 800 to 1,500 troops, primarily archers. The rebel army, bolstered by a significant contingent of archers, sought to capitalize on their numerical advantage. The two armies faced each other across a tributary of the River Cherwell, with Pembroke's forces occupying high ground overnight before the battle commenced.

As the battle began, Pembroke ordered his troops to advance, leading to close-quarters fighting throughout the morning. By early afternoon, the royal forces had gained control of a crucial river crossing. However, the arrival of Warwick's advance guard, led by Sir Geoffrey Gates and Sir William Parr, shifted the momentum. Despite initial resistance, the royal army began to falter, and reports suggest that Devon may have fled the battlefield, contributing to the collapse of Pembroke's forces. The royal army suffered heavy casualties, with estimates of 168 knights and gentry and approximately 2,000 rank-and-file soldiers lost. Pembroke was captured and executed shortly after the battle, while his brother Richard Herbert was killed during the fighting.

Rebel casualties were significantly lower, primarily occurring during the pursuit of the retreating royal forces. Notable rebel losses included Sir William Conyers and Sir Oliver Dudley. The battle's outcome temporarily shifted power to the Earl of Warwick, although Edward IV would regain control by September 1469. The battle is remembered for its high casualties among Pembroke's forces, which became a subject of lament in Welsh poetry, reflecting the enduring impact of the conflict on the region.

The Battle of Losecoat Field, also known as the Battle of Empingham, occurred on 12 March 1470 during the Wars of the Roses. The conflict arose from the Welles Uprising, led by Sir Robert Welles, who sought to challenge King Edward IV's authority. Welles, supported by Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick, and George, Duke of Clarence, gathered a rebel force in Lincolnshire, reportedly numbering around 100,000 men. In response, King Edward began mobilizing his troops on 4 March, ultimately positioning his army near Stamford, approximately five miles from the rebel forces, which were arrayed along the Great North Road near Empingham in Rutland.

As the battle commenced, Edward executed Lord Welles in view of both armies, a tactic intended to demoralize the rebels. Following this, Edward ordered a cannon barrage before launching a charge against the disorganized rebel lines. The well-trained Yorkist forces quickly overwhelmed the rebels, who broke ranks and fled the battlefield. The engagement concluded rapidly, with the Yorkists achieving a decisive victory. Sir Robert Welles and his commander, Richard Warren, were captured during the rout and later executed on 19 March, with Welles confessing to treason and implicating Warwick and Clarence in the rebellion.

The battle's name, 'Losecoat Field,' is believed to derive from a popular etymology suggesting that many of Welles' men discarded their livery to avoid identification during the flight. However, contemporary accounts referred to the site as 'Hornfield,' and the name's origins may be linked to an Old English term meaning 'pigsty cottage.' The battle site is now associated with the nearby Bloody Oaks woodland and quarry, which is recognized for its biological significance.

The Battle of Barnet occurred on 14 April 1471, during the Wars of the Roses, near the town of Barnet in Hertfordshire. Edward IV led the Yorkist forces against the Lancastrians, commanded by Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick. The Yorkists were significantly outnumbered, with estimates of 7,000 to 15,000 troops compared to the Lancastrians' 10,000 to 30,000. The battle commenced in the early morning, shrouded in thick fog, which caused confusion as both armies were misaligned. Edward's forces launched a surprise attack, with Lord Hastings leading the left flank and Edward himself in the center alongside his brother Clarence. The Lancastrians initially gained the upper hand when John de Vere, Earl of Oxford, routed Hastings' men, causing a temporary retreat towards Barnet.

As the battle progressed, the fog began to lift, revealing the chaotic situation. Oxford's men, having mistakenly identified their own forces as Yorkists, fired upon them, leading to cries of treason that spread panic throughout the Lancastrian ranks. Meanwhile, Edward's brother Richard, Duke of Gloucester, successfully pressured the Lancastrian left flank, forcing Warwick to commit reserves to stabilize the line. The tide turned decisively when the Yorkists exploited the confusion, leading to the collapse of the Lancastrian center. Warwick was ultimately killed during the rout, struck down as he attempted to escape. The battle lasted approximately two to three hours, resulting in heavy casualties, with estimates of 1,000 to 4,000 Lancastrians dead compared to around 500 Yorkists.

The aftermath of the battle solidified Edward IV's position on the throne, as the loss of Warwick, a key figure in Lancastrian politics, severely weakened their cause. The battle's significance was underscored by the subsequent defeat of the Lancastrians at the Battle of Tewkesbury on 4 May 1471, which further ensured Yorkist dominance in England. The site of the battle is commemorated by an obelisk erected in the 18th century, marking the location where Warwick fell.

The Battle of Tewkesbury occurred on 4 May 1471, marking a significant confrontation in the Wars of the Roses. King Edward IV led an army of approximately 5,000 to 6,000 Yorkists against a slightly larger Lancastrian force, also numbering around 6,000, commanded by Prince Edward, the Duke of Somerset, and Lord Wenlock. The Lancastrians established a defensive position south of Tewkesbury, utilizing the terrain's natural features, including the River Avon and the Severn, to their advantage. As dawn broke, the Yorkists advanced, facing difficulties due to the broken ground. Edward's forces included his brother Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who commanded the vanguard, and Lord Hastings, who led the rear. The Yorkists employed superior artillery and archery, launching a barrage against the Lancastrians.

During the battle, the Duke of Somerset attempted to flank the Yorkist left but was met with fierce resistance. The Yorkist spearmen, positioned in the woods, counterattacked, leading to the rout of Somerset's forces. As the Lancastrian morale collapsed, many attempted to flee across the Swilgate River, resulting in numerous casualties. The chaos intensified when Somerset confronted Wenlock, allegedly killing him in frustration. The Lancastrian army disintegrated, with many soldiers drowning or being killed as they sought refuge. Among the dead were prominent Lancastrian nobles, including the Prince of Wales, who was slain during the retreat.

Following the battle, King Edward IV allowed the burial of the slain Lancastrians within Tewkesbury Abbey, although many leaders were executed shortly thereafter. The battle effectively ended the Lancastrian resistance, leading to the near-extermination of their royal line. Edward's victory at Tewkesbury solidified his control over the English throne, while the remnants of the Lancastrian claim were left in disarray, with only a few surviving members of the family remaining in exile.

The Siege of London occurred from 12 to 15 May 1471, during the Wars of the Roses, when Thomas Neville, a supporter of the House of Lancaster, attempted to storm the city to free King Henry VI, who was imprisoned in the Tower of London. On 12 May, Neville, commanding a force of nearly 3,000 men, launched an attack on London Bridge and Southwark. His initial assault resulted in the destruction of a bridge in Southwark and damage to nearby shops, but it failed to secure a foothold in the city. The London authorities, having received news of Edward IV's recent victory at Tewkesbury, fortified the city and prepared for a siege, arming citizens and positioning cannons along the River Thames.

On 13 May, Neville shifted his strategy to target Kingston Bridge, but Earl Rivers had anticipated this move and deployed troops to guard the Thames. As Edward IV's forces approached, Neville withdrew to Southwark and bombarded the Tower of London. The most significant engagement occurred on 14 May, when Neville's 3,000 men advanced through St Katherines Precinct, looting and setting fires. However, they faced fierce resistance from the London militia, bolstered by reinforcements led by Henry Bourchier, Earl of Essex, resulting in heavy casualties for Neville's forces. Despite some initial successes, including the capture of livestock meant for the Tower garrison, the Lancastrians were ultimately pushed back.

By 15 May, with Edward IV's vanguard imminent, Neville retreated to Southwark, where some of his troops fled to Mile End or Stratford to board ships back to Kent. On 18 May, he moved towards Sandwich with 600 men to regroup with his fleet. Following negotiations, Neville surrendered to Richard, Duke of Gloucester, on 27 May. The siege highlighted the ongoing conflict between the Yorkists and Lancastrians, culminating in Edward IV's consolidation of power in London.

The Battle of Bosworth Field was fought on 22 August 1485, marking a decisive confrontation in the Wars of the Roses between the forces of King Richard III and Henry Tudor, the Earl of Richmond. Richard's army, estimated at 7,500 to 12,000 men, was positioned on Ambion Hill, with divisions led by the Duke of Norfolk and the Earl of Northumberland. Henry's forces, numbering between 5,000 and 8,000, included a mix of exiles, mercenaries, and local recruits. As the battle commenced, Richard's vanguard attacked but faced resistance from Henry's troops, commanded by the experienced Earl of Oxford. Despite initial successes, Richard's forces struggled as Northumberland failed to support him, leading Richard to make a desperate charge towards Henry in an attempt to end the battle quickly.

During the charge, Richard killed Henry's standard-bearer but soon found himself isolated from his main force. As he engaged Henry's men, the Stanleys, who had been indecisive, intervened on Henry's behalf. Richard's forces were gradually overwhelmed, and he was ultimately unhorsed and surrounded. Accounts suggest he fought valiantly until he was killed, with various sources attributing his death to a blow from a halberd. Following Richard's death, his army disintegrated, and the remaining Yorkist forces fled the battlefield. The battle resulted in significant casualties, with estimates of 1,000 Yorkist deaths compared to around 100 for Henry's forces.

After the battle, Henry Tudor was proclaimed king, marking the end of Richard III's reign and the Plantagenet dynasty. The victory established the Tudor dynasty, with Henry marrying Elizabeth of York to solidify the union between the warring factions. The exact location of the battle has been debated, with various theories proposed over the years, but it is generally accepted to have occurred near Market Bosworth in Leicestershire. The battle is often regarded as a pivotal moment in English history, symbolizing the transition from the medieval period to the early modern era.

The Battle of Stoke Field occurred on 16 June 1487 at East Stoke, Nottinghamshire, marking a significant engagement in the Wars of the Roses. The battle was fought between the forces of King Henry VII and a Yorkist army led by John de la Pole, Earl of Lincoln, who supported the pretender Lambert Simnel, claiming to be Edward VI. The Yorkist forces, numbering approximately 8,000, included 4,500 Irish mercenaries and were bolstered by support from the Duchess of Burgundy. In contrast, Henry's army, which had been reinforced to around 6,000 men, was better equipped and commanded by experienced leaders such as Jasper Tudor and John de Vere, 13th Earl of Oxford.

On the morning of 16 June, Henry's vanguard, under Oxford, encountered the Yorkist army positioned on Rampire Hill, surrounded by the River Trent. The battle commenced with a Lancastrian archery assault, which inflicted significant casualties on the Yorkists. Despite their initial advantage in numbers and the presence of well-trained mercenaries, the Yorkists struggled to break the Lancastrian line. The battle lasted over three hours, with the Yorkists ultimately unable to maintain their offensive. The Lancastrian archers, particularly effective against the lightly armored Irish troops, contributed to the Yorkist attrition. As the Yorkists were forced to retreat, many were trapped and killed in a ravine known as the Red Gutter, leading to the deaths of key Yorkist leaders, including Lincoln and Martin Schwartz.

The aftermath of the battle saw Simnel captured but later pardoned by Henry, who recognized him as a mere figurehead. The battle resulted in heavy casualties for the Yorkists, with most of their commanders killed. Henry's victory solidified his position on the throne, and he subsequently knighted many of his supporters, marking the end of significant Yorkist resistance in the Wars of the Roses.