BattlefieldsBattle of Melrose 1526
Tudor

Battle of Melrose 1526

1526
Roxburghshire, Scotland
Also known as: Skirmish at Melrose Bridge 1526 · Border clash at Melrose
Era
Tudor
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Roxburghshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scott of Buccleuch
Forces
Scott of Buccleuch c.150–400.
VS
Victor
Douglas faction (Archibald Douglas, Earl of Angus)
Forces
Douglas (Angus) c.200–500
Outcome
Douglas victory; Buccleuch's attempt to free James V from Douglas control defeated
The Battle

History & Significance

James V was effectively held captive by the Douglas Earl of Angus who controlled the regency. Sir Walter Scott of Buccleuch — ancestor of the famous family — attempted to intercept the king near Melrose and free him. The attempt was defeated by the Douglases. Two years later James V escaped and took revenge on the Douglases. This episode was part of the chaotic minority of James V and the bitter factional conflicts that scarred Scottish politics after Flodden.

Casualties & Losses

Several killed in the skirmish

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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