Harrying of the North

The Harrying of the North was William’s deliberate devastation of northern England during the winter of 1069–1070. His forces burned settlements and crops, destroyed food supplies and killed livestock. This attacked the resources that supported both resistance and ordinary life.

In the winter of 1069–1070, William carried out the Harrying of the North to crush northern resistance and deter further rebellion. His forces destroyed villages, crops, livestock and tools, depriving rebels of supplies.