BattlefieldsBattle of Otterburn
Medieval

Battle of Otterburn

1388
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Battle of Chevy Chase
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England (Hotspur)
Forces
Hotspur Percy
VS
Victor
Scotland (Douglas)
Forces
c.6,000-7,000 each side; Scots (James Douglas)
Outcome
Scottish victory; Earl of Douglas killed in the moment of victory; Hotspur captured
The Battle

History & Significance

A moonlit night battle — fought in the dark. The Scottish commander Douglas was killed early in the fighting but his men concealed his death and fought on to victory. Hotspur was captured. Douglas became a hero in both Scottish and English ballad tradition. "Chevy Chase" and "The Battle of Otterburn" are among the oldest surviving Border ballads.

Casualties & Losses

Douglas killed; heavy losses both sides

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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