BattlefieldsBattle of Renfrew 1164 — Naval Approach
Early Medieval

Battle of Renfrew 1164 — Naval Approach

1164
Renfrewshire, Scotland
Also known as: Somerled's fleet action 1164
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Naval Engagement
Location
Renfrewshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Somerled fleet
VS
Victor
Scotland (Malcolm IV forces)
Outcome
Somerled's fleet engaged and dispersed on the Clyde
The Battle

History & Significance

Somerled of Argyll sailed up the Clyde with 160 galleys carrying an army. The naval approach to Renfrew was met by resistance on the river. Somerled landed and was killed at Renfrew — whether by treachery or in battle. This separate naval aspect of the Renfrew engagement is distinct from the land action and represents one of the largest Norse-Gaelic naval operations in Scottish history.

Forces Involved

Somerled: c.160 galleys with c.4,000–5,000 men. Malcolm IV: c.1,000–2,000 men.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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