BattlefieldsSiege of Berwick 1296
Medieval

Siege of Berwick 1296

1296
Berwickshire, Scotland
Also known as: Storming of Berwick 1296 · Edward I sacks Berwick 1296
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Berwickshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Berwick garrison and population
Forces
Berwick: Scottish garrison and townspeople
VS
Victor
Edward I of England
Forces
Edward I: full English royal army with fleet
Outcome
Edward I stormed Berwick and massacred much of the population in revenge for resistance; the opening blow of the Wars of Independence
The Battle

History & Significance

The storming and sacking of Berwick on 30 March 1296 was Edward I opening move in the conquest of Scotland. The massacre of the population — possibly 8,000 people — was intended to terrorise Scotland into submission. Instead it hardened Scottish resistance and began nearly thirty years of warfare.

Casualties & Losses

Reported 7,000-11,000 civilians killed; garrison put to the sword

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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