BattlefieldsBattle of Lincoln Fair
Medieval

Battle of Lincoln Fair

1217
Lincolnshire, England
Also known as: Fair of Lincoln 1217 · Battle of Lincoln 1217
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Lincolnshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
French / Rebel barons (Louis of France)
Forces
French and rebel force; Fair of Lincoln
VS
Victor
Royalists (William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke)
Forces
c.600 English horse (William Marshal)
Outcome
Royalist victory; French and rebel force routed inside Lincoln; Louis's cause ended
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the most decisive battles in English history, yet barely known. William Marshal — aged over 70, the greatest knight of the age — led Henry III's forces against the French prince Louis and rebel barons who had been besieging Lincoln Castle. The royalists entered through an unblocked gate and the fighting spilled into the city streets — the chaos earning it the name "the Fair of Lincoln." Combined with the naval battle of Sandwich weeks later, it ended the French invasion that threatened to end the Plantagenet dynasty. The Magna Carta was reissued as part of the settlement.

Casualties & Losses

Few killed; many captured; Count de la Perche killed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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