scottish-wars-of-independence-in-yorkshire

On March 16, 1322, the Battle of Boroughbridge took place in the First War of Scottish Independence. From the article:

"Battle of Boroughbridge, 16 Mar 1322
In 1322, Thomas of Lancaster and his rebellious barons were losing support and King Edward II was in pursuit of the rebel forces. The Earl of Lancaster wished to hold out in Pontefract, but was persuaded to march north to Dunstanburgh to seek Scottish assistance. In February of that year, Sir Andrew de Harcla, warden of Carlisle and the Western Marches, had been ordered to assemble the knights and men-at-arms of Cumberland and Westmorland.

Informed of the rebels' movements, Harcla marched his forces to meet Lancaster's forces on the Great North Road. On the evening of 15 March 1322, Harcla arrived at Boroughbridge, where the Great North Road crossed the River Ure. Although Lancaster's forces were stronger in armoured knights and men-at-arms, the opposed river crossing removed this advantage.

On 16 March, Lancaster reached Boroughbridge; with the king pursuing Lancaster from the south, the only option would be to fight for control of the bridge. Part of Lancaster's forces headed toward a ford further along the river, to flank Harcla's forces. The fire from Harcla's archers halted the Lancaster's cavalry before they reached the water. Lancaster negotiated a truce for the night. During the night the High Sheriff of Yorkshire reinforced Harcla's troops. The next morning Lancaster was called to surrender. He would not, but fled to Boroughbridge chapel. Harcla's men captured Lancaster; he was taken to York. On 22 March, Lancaster was executed at Pontefract Castle."