BattlefieldsPilgrimage of Grace — Pontefract Castle Surrender (1536 AD)
Tudor

Pilgrimage of Grace — Pontefract Castle Surrender (1536 AD)

1536
West Riding, England
Also known as: Pontefract rises 1536 · Lord Darcy surrenders Pontefract
Era
Tudor
Battle Type
Siege
Location
West Riding, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Lord Darcy (nominal)
Forces
Pontefract garrison c.100–200.
VS
Victor
Pilgrims
Forces
Pilgrims c.15,000–30,000
Outcome
Pontefract Castle surrendered to the Pilgrims; Lord Darcy joined the rebellion
The Battle

History & Significance

Pontefract Castle, the most formidable fortress in the north, was surrendered to the Pilgrim host by Lord Thomas Darcy, who subsequently joined the rebellion. Whether Darcy's capitulation was forced or willing has been debated ever since; he was later executed for treason. The capture of Pontefract gave the Pilgrims control of the strategic key to the north and greatly strengthened their negotiating position with the Crown.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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