BattlefieldsHalidon Hill
Medieval

Halidon Hill

1333
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Battle of Halidon Hill 1333
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Registered · EHB37
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scotland
Forces
Scotland c.12,000-15,000
VS
Victor
England (Edward III)
Forces
England c.10,000-15,000
Outcome
Decisive English victory; Scottish schiltrons destroyed ascending the hill
The Battle

History & Significance

Edward III's first major victory and the tactical precursor to Crécy. He positioned his dismounted men-at-arms and longbowmen on the crest of Halidon Hill, forcing the Scots to advance uphill over boggy ground before charging. The Scottish schiltrons were shot to pieces by volleys of arrows before they could close. Five Scottish earls and hundreds of nobles were killed. The battle demonstrated that Bannockburn's tactical lessons had been thoroughly absorbed by the English — and inverted.

Casualties & Losses

c.4,000–5,000 Scots killed; minimal English

Registered Historic Battlefield

This battlefield is listed on the Register of Historic Battlefields — a national designation identifying Britain's most significant battle sites for protection and further research. Reference: EHB37.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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