BattlefieldsBattle of Alnwick (1174)
Medieval

Battle of Alnwick (1174)

1174
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Capture of William the Lion
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scotland (William I "the Lion")
Forces
Scottish force: c.100–300.
VS
Victor
England (Ranulf de Glanville)
Forces
English force: c.100–200
Outcome
William I of Scotland captured; forced to sign Treaty of Falaise
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the most consequential skirmishes in Anglo-Scottish history. William the Lion had invaded northern England as part of the Great Revolt. A small English force from Newcastle surprised him in fog near Alnwick while he was hawking. William was unhorsed and captured — the only Scottish king ever taken prisoner on English soil. The resulting Treaty of Falaise made Scotland a vassal of England for fifteen years.

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