BattlefieldsWilliam the Lion Siege of Alnwick 1173
Medieval

William the Lion Siege of Alnwick 1173

1173
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Scottish siege of Alnwick 1173 · William I besieges Alnwick
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scottish
Forces
Scottish force: c.800–1,500.
VS
Victor
England (Alnwick garrison held)
Forces
English garrison: c.150–250
Outcome
Alnwick Castle resisted the Scottish siege; William withdrew
The Battle

History & Significance

William the Lion's first major invasion of England came in 1173 when he took advantage of the great revolt against Henry II by Henry's own sons. He besieged Alnwick Castle but was unable to take it. This failure highlighted the limits of Scottish siege capability -- Alnwick would be the scene of his capture the following year. The 1173 campaign nevertheless allowed the Scots to harry Northumberland extensively and demonstrate that England's northern border was vulnerable during the rebellion.

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