BattlefieldsSiege of Dunottar 900
Early Medieval

Siege of Dunottar 900

900
Kincardineshire, Scotland
Also known as: Viking assault on Dunnottar 900
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Kincardineshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scottish garrison
VS
Victor
Vikings (Norse raiders)
Outcome
Dunnottar fortress besieged; garrison under severe pressure
The Battle

History & Significance

The Annals of Ulster record that Dunnottar — the great rock fortress on the Kincardineshire coast — was besieged by a Danish force in 900. It was one of the most formidable natural strongholds in Scotland. The record shows how far south Viking raiders penetrated along the east coast during the height of Norse activity in Scotland, threatening even the core territories of the emerging Kingdom of Alba.

Forces Involved

Viking raiders: c. 300–500. Scottish garrison: c. 100–200.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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