Battles & Campaigns · 1322
Battle of Boroughbridge
Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, England, UK
What happened
Lancaster's army reached Boroughbridge, where Harclay already held the bridge. Royal pikemen in a tight formation drove back the rebel attacks, and archers turned back Lancaster's cavalry. Many rebels deserted in the night, and Lancaster surrendered the next day.
Why it matters
It ended the Despenser War and let Edward II hold power for nearly five more years. It also showed how foot soldiers and longbows could beat cavalry.
What came next
Edward II was overthrown in 1327 by Isabella and Mortimer, and Edward III became king.
Did you know?
After his death, Lancaster was honoured by many as a martyr, which historians see as a protest against Edward II's rule.
Timeline
- 16 Mar 1322Battle of Boroughbridge.
- 14 Oct 1322Battle of Old Byland.
- 1327Edward II is overthrown.