BattlefieldsBattle of Otterburn 1388
Medieval

Battle of Otterburn 1388

1388
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Battle of Chevy Chase · Moonlight Battle of Otterburn
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England (Hotspur — Henry Percy)
Forces
Hotspur Percy
VS
Victor
Scotland (Douglas)
Forces
c.6,000-7,000 each side; Scots (James Douglas)
Outcome
Scottish victory; Earl of Douglas killed in the moment of victory; Henry Percy captured
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the most celebrated battles of the Border ballad tradition. The Earl of Douglas led a raid into England and was confronted at Otterburn by Henry Percy (Hotspur). The battle was fought in near-darkness. Douglas was killed early in the fighting but his men concealed his death and fought on — winning the battle. Hotspur was captured. Both 'The Battle of Otterburn' and 'Chevy Chase' preserve the story in ballad form. Froissart describes it as one of the most gallantly fought battles he ever heard of.

Casualties & Losses

Earl of Douglas killed; Hotspur captured

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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