The Battle of Stamford Bridge, fought on September 25, 1066, was won by the Anglo-Saxons led by King Harold II Godwinson. They defeated the invading Viking forces commanded by King Harald Hardrada of Norway and Harold’s exiled brother Tostig. The English forces launched a surprise attack that overwhelmed the unprepared Vikings, resulting in heavy Viking casualties and the deaths of both Harald Hardrada and Tostig. This battle marked the end of the Viking Age in England but significantly weakened Harold II’s army, which had to face the Norman invasion shortly afterward at the Battle of Hastings.