Battle of Loch Ryan facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Loch Ryan
Part of First War of Scottish Independence
Date 9/10 February 1307 Location near Stranraer, Scotland Result Rebel victory
Belligerents
Scottish Crown	Rebels
Commanders and leaders
Alexander Bruce   Thomas Bruce	Dungal MacDowall
Strength
~1000	unknown
Casualties and losses
Heavy	Low

The Battle of Loch Ryan was a small but important fight during the Scottish Wars of Independence. It took place on February 9 or 10, 1307. The battle happened near Stranraer in Galloway, Scotland, right on the shores of Loch Ryan. This event was a big setback for King Robert I of Scotland early in his fight for Scottish freedom.

What Was the Battle of Loch Ryan?

The Battle of Loch Ryan was part of a larger plan by King Robert I of Scotland. He wanted to take back his family lands in Annandale and Carrick. These lands were important to his family, the Bruce clan. In 1307, Robert sent an invasion force to achieve this goal.

Who Led the Scottish Invasion?

The invasion force was led by King Robert's own brothers, Alexander Bruce and Thomas Bruce. Other important leaders included Malcolm McQuillan, who was a lord from Kintyre, and Sir Reginald Crawford. There was also an Irish sub-king, whose name is not fully known today.

The Size of the Force

This group was quite large for the time. They had about 1,000 men ready to fight. They also traveled with eighteen galleys, which are types of ships. These ships were used to carry the soldiers and supplies across the water.

Where Did They Land?

The invasion force sailed into Loch Ryan. This is a sea loch, or a narrow inlet of the sea, located in southwest Scotland. They landed their ships near the town of Stranraer. Their goal was to start their land invasion from this point.

The Unexpected Attack

Once the Scottish force landed, they were quickly met by local fighters. These local forces were led by a man named Dungal MacDowall. MacDowall was a strong supporter of King Edward I of England. He also supported the Balliols and Comyns, who were rivals of Robert the Bruce.

The Overwhelming Defeat

Dungal MacDowall's forces were very effective. They quickly surrounded and attacked the Scottish invaders. The fight was short but fierce. King Robert's brothers and their men were completely overwhelmed. They were not expecting such a strong defense.

Who Escaped?

The defeat was so complete that only two of the eighteen galleys managed to escape. Most of the Scottish soldiers were either captured or killed. It was a heavy loss for King Robert's side.

The Fate of the Leaders

All the leaders of the Scottish invasion force were captured by Dungal MacDowall.

• Dungal MacDowall quickly ordered the execution of Malcolm McQuillan and the Irish sub-king. This means they were killed right away.
• Alexander Bruce, Thomas Bruce, and Reginald Crawford were sent to Carlisle, England. There, they were also executed.
• As a sign of victory, the heads of McQuillan and two Irish chiefs were sent to King Edward I of England.

Why Was This Battle Important?

The Battle of Loch Ryan was a major defeat for King Robert I of Scotland early in his campaign. It showed him that the fight for Scottish independence would be very difficult. Despite this loss, Robert the Bruce continued his struggle and eventually won Scotland's freedom.