BattlefieldsSiege of Bedford Castle 1224
Medieval

Siege of Bedford Castle 1224

1224
Bedfordshire, England
Also known as: Bedford 1224 · Henry III besieges Bedford 1224
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Bedfordshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Falkes de Breaute garrison
Forces
Garrison: Falkes de Breaute mercenaries c.100
VS
Victor
Henry III
Forces
Henry III: full royal army with siege engines
Outcome
Bedford Castle fell after eight weeks; garrison hanged, including 80 men; Falkes de Breaute exiled
The Battle

History & Significance

The Siege of Bedford Castle in 1224 marked the final reassertion of royal authority after the chaos of John reign and the First Barons War. Falkes de Breaute was one of John worst mercenary captains who had never been properly constrained. When he kidnapped a royal judge, Henry III besieged him with full force. The garrison was hanged, the castle demolished. A landmark moment in royal justice.

Casualties & Losses

80 garrison members hanged

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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