BattlefieldsBattle of Philiphaugh 1645
English Civil War

Battle of Philiphaugh 1645

1645
Selkirkshire, Scotland
Also known as: Philiphaugh 1645 · Montrose defeated at Selkirk 1645
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Selkirkshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Royalists (Montrose)
Forces
Montrose force c.500-1,000
VS
Victor
Covenanters (David Leslie)
Forces
Leslie Covenanting cavalry c.4,000-6,000
Outcome
Montrose surprised and routed; Irish and Highland army destroyed; end of Montrose campaign in Scotland
The Battle

History & Significance

David Leslie caught Montrose completely by surprise at Philiphaugh near Selkirk, ending the brilliant royalist campaign of 1644-45. Montrose had won six consecutive battles but was outnumbered and caught while his army was scattered. He barely escaped. His Irish and Highlander soldiers were slaughtered after surrendering — along with camp followers including women and children. Philiphaugh ended Montrose's campaign and secured southern Scotland for the Covenanters.

Casualties & Losses

Montrose's army destroyed; camp followers massacred

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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