BattlefieldsSiege of Coventry Castle 1147
Medieval

Siege of Coventry Castle 1147

1147
Warwickshire, England
Also known as: Coventry 1147 · Anarchy at Coventry
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Warwickshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Ranulf of Chester garrison
Forces
Ranulf garrison: c.300–700.
VS
Victor
King Stephen
Forces
Stephen: c.2,500–4,000
Outcome
Stephen attacked the castle held by Ranulf of Chester allies; Ranulf had shifted between the two sides
The Battle

History & Significance

Ranulf of Chester was the most powerful baron of the Anarchy and played both sides. When he defected back to Stephen after the disaster at Lincoln 1141, his castles including Coventry became contested. The siege illustrates the volatile baronial loyalties that characterised the civil war.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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