Battles & Campaigns · 1900
Battle of the Tugela Heights
Tugela River, near Colenso, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
What happened
In his fourth attempt to relieve Ladysmith, Buller first took the high ground south of the Tugela River. An attack on Hart's Hill on 23 February failed. Buller then sent troops around the Boer flank, and on 27 February the British took Pieters Hill and the hills beside it.
Why it matters
After three failed attempts, this success finally ended the Siege of Ladysmith. Botha withdrew to a new line about 60 miles north.
What came next
On 28 February 1900 mounted troops under Hubert Gough rode into Ladysmith.
Did you know?
Private Edgar Inkson carried a wounded young officer 300 to 400 yards to safety and received the Victoria Cross.
Timeline
- 5–7 Feb 1900Battle of Vaal Krantz.
- 14 Feb 1900Battle of the Tugela Heights begins.
- 27 Feb 1900British take Pieters Hill; Cronjé surrenders at Paardeberg.
- 28 Feb 1900Relief of Ladysmith.