During the civil war there are numerous examples of women becoming engaged in warfare. Examples predominately come from sieges where women were draughted in to help.

At Old Wardour Castle Lady Blanche Arundell defended the castle on behalf of her husband, who was away serving the king. Lady Blanche was besieged by local parliamentarian forces. Her garrison was a household garrison, consisting of servants and workers from the estate, and included a number of women. Also at Corfe Castle Lady Banks defended the castle against parliamentarian forces. Here female servants are reputed to have thrown masonry down onto the besieging forces.

While the actions of the female gentry are recorded, women of lower social standing would have become involved with the defence of towns and household garrisons. There is evidence from Exeter and Chester of women working on the fortifications.

In addition women, as well as men would have played a significant part in supporting the war effort. An example would have been the production of wool and cloth and the manufacture of clothing, such as coats and stockings to supply the armies.