BattlefieldsBattle of Coleshill
Medieval

Battle of Coleshill

1157
Warwickshire, England
Also known as: Battle of Basingwerk
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Warwickshire, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England (Henry II)
VS
Victor
Wales (Owain Gwynedd)
Outcome
Welsh ambush victory; Henry II nearly captured or killed
The Battle

History & Significance

Henry II invaded Wales to reassert English dominance and was badly caught in a forest ambush — he nearly lost his life when his rearguard was attacked. His brother Henry and the Earl of Essex dropped the royal standard and fled. Henry II was forced to make peace with Owain Gwynedd on Welsh terms. An early lesson in why medieval kings avoided forest fighting.

Forces Involved

Henry II: c. 2,500–4,000 troops. Owain Gwynedd: c. 2,000–3,500 warriors.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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