BattlefieldsBattle of Altimarlach
English Civil War

Battle of Altimarlach

1680
Caithness, Scotland
Also known as: Battle of Alt an Fhearna 1680
Era
English Civil War
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Caithness, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Campbell of Glenorchy's men
Forces
Campbells c.250–350. Last major Caithness clan engagement.
VS
Victor
Sinclairs
Forces
Sinclairs c.300–400
Outcome
Sinclair victory; last clan battle in Caithness
The Battle

History & Significance

The last significant clan battle fought in Caithness — between the Sinclairs and a force sent by the Earl of Caithness (Campbell of Glenorchy, who had acquired the bankrupt Sinclair earldom). The Sinclairs defeated the Campbell-backed earl and recovered their earldom. The Battle of Altimarlach is one of the last examples of traditional clan warfare in the far north.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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