- Shieldwall formation: The Anglo-Saxon army was formed into a tightly packed wall of shields, creating a formidable defense against the Norman cavalry.
- High ground advantage: Harold positioned his army on a ridge, giving them an elevated position and the advantage of gravity in hand-to-hand combat.
- Defensive stance: Rather than launching an immediate attack, Harold adopted a defensive strategy, waiting for the Normans to initiate the assault.
- Dismounted cavalry: Some of Harold's cavalry dismounted and fought alongside the infantry, bolstering the shieldwall and providing additional firepower.
- Feigned retreat: At one point during the battle, Harold and his huscarls (elite infantry) executed a tactical withdrawal to lure the Norman cavalry into an ambush.