The Battle of Hexham 1464
by John Watson (Hobilar 36)

A Further Hypothesis

Traditional views of Hexham have Montagu's army advancing straight at Somerset's in a set piece battle, but given the possible disparity of numbers and Somerset's previous attempt to ambush Montagu it is possible he tried the same again, but was disastrously unsuccessful.

If the Yorkists approached from Bywell intending to cross Linnels Bridge towards Hexham, Somerset may have formed up his force parallel to this road and to the north of it with the Devils Water at his back and to his right, and with Swallowship Hill to the left (Map 3).

The intention would be to hit the Yorkists in the flank before they could turn and face. Roos and Hungerford, on the far right, though, would have the first view of the Yorkist host and this may explain why they fled so quickly, if the disparity in numbers was so great. This flight may have created unease amongst the remaining Lancastrians to execute the ambush and allowed the Yorkists time to turn and crush the Lancastrians, forcing them back into the Devils Water.

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