BattlefieldsSiege of Odiham Castle 1216
Medieval

Siege of Odiham Castle 1216

1216
Hampshire, England
Also known as: Odiham 1216 · Three knights hold Odiham 1216
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Hampshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Royal garrison
Forces
French: main army of Louis
VS
Victor
Louis of France (eventually)
Forces
Garrison: 3 knights and small retinue
Outcome
A garrison of just three knights held Odiham for two weeks against the French army before surrendering with honour
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the most celebrated feats of arms of the First Barons War. Three knights and their garrison held tiny Odiham Castle for a fortnight against the entire French army of Louis, earning honourable surrender terms. The episode illustrates how determined castle garrisons could delay even overwhelming forces.

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