Battle of Methven facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Methven
Part of the First War of Scottish Independence
Fields north of Methven
Date 19 June 1306 Location Methven, west of Perth Result English victory
Belligerents
Kingdom of Scotland	Kingdom of England
Commanders and leaders
King Robert I	Earl of Pembroke
Strength
4,500	3,000
Casualties and losses
Heavy	Light

The Battle of Methven was an important fight during the Wars of Scottish Independence. It happened on 19 June 1306, near Methven, Scotland. This battle was a big moment for Robert the Bruce early in his fight to become King of Scots.

Why the Battle Happened

Bruce Becomes King

Robert the Bruce was crowned King of Scots on 25 March 1306. This special event took place at Scone, near Perth. He was crowned by Bishop William de Lamberton.

England's Anger

King Edward I of England was very angry. Bruce had been involved in the death of John Comyn, Lord of Badenoch. Comyn was a powerful Scottish noble. Edward I saw Bruce's crowning as a challenge to his own power. So, he quickly sent Aymer de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, to Scotland. Pembroke was given special powers to deal with the Scots.

The English Army Arrives

By mid-summer, Pembroke had set up his base in Perth. He had about 3,000 soldiers with him. These soldiers came from the northern parts of England. King Edward I gave a harsh order: any Scottish fighter caught would be killed without a trial.

The Battle of Methven

A Surprise Attack

Robert the Bruce wanted to fight Pembroke in a fair, open battle. He challenged Pembroke to come out from Perth's walls. Pembroke, who was known as an honorable man, said it was too late in the day. He promised to fight the next morning.

Bruce's army set up camp about six miles away. They were in some woods on high ground near the River Almond. As dusk fell, Bruce's soldiers were making camp. Many of them had taken off their armor. Suddenly, Pembroke's army launched a surprise attack.

Fighting for Survival

The attack caught Bruce's army off guard. In the first moments, King Robert knocked the Earl of Pembroke off his horse. But then, Bruce himself was unhorsed. He almost got captured by Sir Philip Mowbray. Luckily, Sir Christopher Seton saved him.

Bruce's forces were outnumbered and surprised. They had little chance to fight back. Bruce was knocked off his horse two more times. Each time, he was rescued by his loyal knights.

The Scottish Retreat

Finally, a small group of Scottish knights formed a tight group. This group included James Douglas, Neil Campbell, Edward Bruce, John de Strathbogie, Earl of Atholl, and Gilbert de Haye. They helped the king break free. They were forced to run away, suffering a terrible defeat. Many of Bruce's most loyal followers were killed or captured. Those captured were later executed.

The battle is shown in the Netflix movie, Outlaw King.

What Happened Next

Captured Scots

Many Scottish fighters were captured during the battle. These included important people like Alexander Fraser. Also captured were David de Inchmartin, Hugh de Haye, and John Somerville. Alexander Scrymgeour, who carried the royal flag, was also taken. Bruce's nephew, Thomas de Randolph, and Hugh, Bruce’s chaplain, were also captured.