The Battle of Brunanburh

Dan explains the Battle of Brunanburh, an epic clash that decided the fate of the British Isles. On one side, the forces of King Æthelstan, fighting for his vision for a unified England; on the other, a massive ‘anti-Wessex’ coalition of Vikings, Scots and Celts, determined to stop the English project from taking hold.

Today, we explore the high-stakes diplomacy that led to this point, hear how this savage battle played out, and dig into its consequences for the modern UK.

Written and produced by Dan Snow, and edited by Dougal Patmore.

All music from Epidemic Sounds/All3Media.

Dan Snow's History Hit is a History Hit podcast.