The Two Sides

The English

This army was probably the bigger of the the two sides. Its soldiers were foot soldiers [infantry] and fought with battle axes and shields.

The Normans

This army was probably smaller than Harold's but better equipped. There were trained Knights on horseback and the Normans fought with bows and arrows.

On 14th October 1066 the battle began.

Compare the armies below

The English Army The Norman Army

1. 7000 men. 1. 5000 Men

2. On foot. 2. Knights on horseback

3. Farmers and soldiers. 3. Well trained soldiers

4. Axes and shields. 4. Bows and arrows

5. Had already fought a battle and had a very long march. 5. Recently arrived in England after a short boat journey.

The English Army	The Norman Army
1. 7000 men.	1. 5000 Men
2. On foot.	2. Knights on horseback
3. Farmers and soldiers.	3. Well trained soldiers
4. Axes and shields.	4. Bows and arrows
5. Had already fought a battle and had a very long march.	5. Recently arrived in England after a short boat journey.