History Extra podcast How warhorses transformed medieval England
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Dec 1, 2025 Join historians Robert Liddiard, an expert in medieval warfare, and Oliver H. Creighton, an archaeologist focused on material culture, as they explore the fascinating impact of warhorses on medieval England. They discuss how cavalry helped secure William the Conqueror’s victory at Hastings and the tactics used by Robert the Bruce to counter them. The conversation delves into the evolution of cavalry, horse breeding practices, and even the cultural significance of horses in medieval literature. Find out how these majestic creatures shaped history!
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Horses Gave William Tactical Flexibility
- William's horses provided battlefield mobility that English infantry lacked.
- Cavalry plus archers gave William tactical flexibility that likely decided Hastings.
Stirrups Transformed Mounted Warfare
- The stirrup was a game-changing import from the east that enabled mounted combat.
- Stirrups arrived in Britain in the mid-10th century and underpinned cavalry effectiveness.
Different Horses For Different Campaigns
- Medieval warfare diversified horse types from heavy destriers to light hobblers and coursers.
- Armies chose mounts by campaign needs: endurance coursers for chevauchées, hobblers for raids.
