Could You Survive The Real Battle of Hastings 1066?

Video Description

In this episode of Survive History – released just as the BBC’s King and Conqueror brings 1066 back into the spotlight – presenter Louee Dessent steps into the battered boots of an Anglo-Saxon footsoldier during the legendary Battle of Hastings. Much like the drama unfolding in the show, Louee’s journey takes him through the pivotal moments of 1066: first clashing with fierce Vikings at the Battle of Stamford Bridge, then racing south to face Duke William of Normandy’s relentless Norman knights. As part of King Harold’s army, Louee feels the crushing impact of the shield wall – the same desperate defensive tactic shown in King and Conqueror – as huscarls and fyrdmen brace for wave after wave of heavy cavalry. He dives into the chaos of the battlefield, uncovers the brutal realities of 11th-century medicine, and breaks down the key strategic turning points that decided England’s fate. With authentic costumes, historic locations, and collaboration with expert living history groups, this immersive episode brings the real story of 1066 vividly to life. If King and Conqueror has you hooked, you’ll love this gritty, hands-on exploration of what it truly took to survive one of the most decisive battles in English history. #BattleOfHastings #1066 #KingAndConqueror #SurviveHistory #AngloSaxon #NormanConquest #KingHarold #MedievalWarfare #LivingHistory 00:00 Introduction 02:46 Background to 1066 06:50 The Viking invasion of Harald Hadrada 09:26 The Normans land in England 12:24 The morning of the Battle of Hastings 14:26 King Harold's army 19:33 The battle begins 22:22 Meeting Duke William of Normandy 27:14 The Norman knights charge 28:59 A turning point in the battle 30:35 The feigned retreat 31:54 Treating the wounded in the 11th century 39:45 The shield wall falters 40:49 King Harold's death 41:59 The English retreat 44:24 Could you survive The Battle of Hastings? 45:24 Conclusion