Halidon Hill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Halidon Hill |
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Battle of Halidon Hill cairn
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 Location in Northumberland
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| Location | Northumberland, England |
| OS grid | NT968548 |
| Coordinates | 55°47′13″N 2°03′07″W / 55.787°N 2.052°W |
Halidon Hill is a small hill located about 2 miles (3.2 km) west of the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. This town sits right on the border between England and Scotland. The hill reaches about 600 feet (180 meters) high. Its name suggests that it might have once had a fort or castle on its top. Halidon Hill is famous for a very important battle that happened there in 1333.
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The Battle of Halidon Hill
Halidon Hill was the site of a major battle during the Wars of Scottish Independence. This battle took place on July 19, 1333. It was a key moment in the long struggle between England and Scotland.
Who Fought in the Battle?
The English army was led by Edward III of England, who was the King of England. He had a strong force, including many skilled longbowmen. Longbowmen were archers who used powerful bows to shoot arrows over long distances.
The Scottish army was led by Archibald Douglas. He was known as "the Tyneman" and was the Regent of Scotland. A regent is someone who rules a country when the king or queen is too young or unable to rule.
How the Battle Unfolded
King Edward III positioned his longbowmen on the high ground of Halidon Hill. This gave them a great advantage. From this position, they could shoot down at the Scottish army as they tried to attack.
The Scottish soldiers had to march uphill and across marshy ground to reach the English lines. This made them tired and disorganized. As they advanced, the English longbowmen fired thousands of arrows. The arrows caused heavy losses among the Scottish troops.
The Outcome of the Battle
The Battle of Halidon Hill was a big victory for the English. The Scottish army suffered a crushing defeat. Many Scottish soldiers were killed, including Archibald Douglas himself. This battle showed how effective longbows could be in warfare. It also helped Edward III gain control of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Royal Visits to Halidon Hill
Halidon Hill has also been a place of interest for royalty over the centuries. Its location near the border and its views made it a good spot for important meetings.
Mary, Queen of Scots' Visit
On November 15, 1566, Mary, Queen of Scots came to Halidon Hill. She visited the hill to get a good view of Berwick-upon-Tweed. While there, she met with John Foster. He was the Marshal of Berwick, a high-ranking military officer in charge of the town's defenses.
James VI and Anne of Denmark's Plan
In April 1595, King James VI of Scotland and his wife, Anne of Denmark, planned a trip. They wanted to visit areas near Berwick, including Halidon Hill. The hill offered a great view of the town and its strong fortifications. The governor of Berwick at the time, Henry Carey, 1st Baron Hunsdon, even wondered if the town should fire its cannons in a special salute for the royal couple.
