BattlefieldsDavid I Takes Bamburgh Castle 1138
Medieval

David I Takes Bamburgh Castle 1138

1138
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Scottish control of Bamburgh 1138 · David I seizes Bamburgh
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
English garrison at Bamburgh
Forces
English garrison c.60–100; siege.
VS
Victor
Scotland (David I)
Forces
Scots c.1,500–2,500
Outcome
Bamburgh briefly in Scottish hands during 1138 invasion
The Battle

History & Significance

Bamburgh Castle -- the ancient seat of the kings of Northumbria, built on its great sea-rock -- was briefly occupied by Scottish forces during David I's great invasion of 1138. The seizure of this symbolic fortress was more politically significant than strategically necessary: Bamburgh was the ancient royal capital of Northumbria, and its occupation underlined Scotland's claim to the northern earldom. It was surrendered on the negotiated settlement that followed the Battle of the Standard.

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