BattlefieldsBattle of Alnwick (1093)
Early Medieval

Battle of Alnwick (1093)

1093
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Death of Malcolm III at Alnwick
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scotland (Malcolm III)
Forces
Malcolm III: c.1,500–2,500.
VS
Victor
England (Northumbrian garrison)
Forces
Alnwick garrison: c.200–400
Outcome
Malcolm III and his son Edward killed in ambush; Scottish invasion collapses
The Battle

History & Significance

King Malcolm III — Canmore — launched his fifth invasion of England and was killed in a skirmish near Alnwick Castle, ambushed while besieging the castle. His son Edward was killed with him. The double death — king and heir — threw Scotland into a succession crisis that lasted years, with Donald III and Duncan II fighting for the throne. Malcolm's queen Margaret died on hearing the news, and was later canonised as Saint Margaret of Scotland.

Casualties & Losses

Malcolm III and his son Edward both killed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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