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What happened at the Battle of Halidon Hill in 1333?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Edward III
Edward III Edward III, watercolour, 15th century; in the British Library (Cotton MS. Julius E. IV).

The Battle of Halidon Hill, fought on July 19, 1333, was a decisive engagement during Scotland’s struggle for independence from England.1

Edward III was besieging Berwick-upon-Tweed on behalf of his vassal, Edward de Balliol, who sought to displace the Scottish king David II. When a Scottish relief force led by Sir Archibald Douglas attempted to intervene, Edward III intercepted them at Halidon Hill.1

The English forces were organized into three dismounted divisions, each flanked by longbowmen. As the Scots advanced across swampy, uphill terrain, they were devastated by a barrage of arrows. Those who managed to reach the English lines were quickly defeated, resulting in a complete rout of the Scottish army. Following this victory, Berwick surrendered the next day.1