September 1066
Harald Hardrada invaded northern England with around 10,000 Viking soldiers.
He was joined by Tostig Godwinson, Harold’s angry brother.
The English Defenders
The northern earls Edwin and Morcar tried to stop the invasion.
They met the Vikings near York at Fulford.
What Happened?
The Viking army defeated the English defenders.
The English line collapsed and many soldiers were trapped in marshy ground.
York surrendered soon afterwards.
This was terrible news for Harold.
He now had to rush north immediately.