BattlefieldsCapture of Aberystwyth Castle by Glyndŵr
Medieval

Capture of Aberystwyth Castle by Glyndŵr

1404
Cardiganshire, Wales
Also known as: Aberystwyth falls to Glyndŵr 1404
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Cardiganshire, Wales
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England (Aberystwyth garrison)
VS
Victor
Wales (Owain Glyndŵr)
Outcome
Welsh capture of Aberystwyth Castle; Glyndŵr controls west Wales
The Battle

History & Significance

In 1404 Glyndŵr captured both Aberystwyth and Harlech castles — the two greatest English fortresses in west and north-west Wales. With Harlech as his residence and capital, and Aberystwyth controlling the coast, Glyndŵr was at the height of his power. He held his parliament at Machynlleth and negotiated a treaty with France. For a brief moment Wales was a functioning independent state. His daughter Catherine married Edmund Mortimer, the captured English commander.

Forces Involved

Welsh (Glyndŵr): c. 1,000–2,000 men in siege. English garrison: c. 100–200 men.

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