BattlefieldsScottish capture of Berwick 1318
Medieval

Scottish capture of Berwick 1318

1318
Berwickshire, Scotland
Also known as: Recapture of Berwick by Bruce 1318
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Berwickshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England (Berwick garrison)
Forces
English garrison c.200–400.
VS
Victor
Scotland (Robert I)
Forces
Scottish besiegers c.3,000–5,000
Outcome
Berwick retaken by treachery; English garrison expelled; town held by Scotland until 1333
The Battle

History & Significance

The recovery of Berwick was a major strategic coup for Bruce. The town had been Scotland's richest trading port before 1296 and its control was vital to both sides. A spy inside the garrison opened the gates at night. Berwick's return to Scottish hands closed the main English route into the eastern Borders and was a key prize in Bruce's ultimately successful campaign to restore Scottish independence.

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