Clash of Crowns: The Battle of Byland 1322: Robert the Bruce’s Forgotten Victory

The Battle of Byland, on October 14, 1322, was a crucial battle in the Wars of Scottish Independence. This new edition of "Clash of Crowns" sheds new light on the overlooked battle and its impact on British history. The area of the North York Moors National Park contains dramatic and scenic landscapes, and it is hard to imagine thousands of English and Scottish troops engaged in conflict there.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2024
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Battle of Byland, which took place on October 14, 1322, holds significant importance in the context of the Wars of Scottish Independence. In his captivating study, Harry Pearson delves into one of the lesser-known battles in British history, shedding fresh light on this pivotal encounter. The North York Moors National Park boasts some of the most breathtaking and picturesque landscapes in the North of England, with the section of the Cleveland Way standing out as a true marvel. On a clear day, the entire Vale of Mowbray is laid bare before the eyes. However, it is difficult to fathom the presence of thousands of English and Scottish troops engaged in a fierce conflict on the same ground when visiting the area today. The morning of October 14th, 1322, witnessed the convergence of two kingdoms' armies on the same terrain. King Edward II of England gazed down from the heights at a formidable force of several thousand men, led by King Robert I the Bruce of Scotland. These Scottish troops were positioned below Sutton Bank in the vicinity of Gormire Lake, with an additional thousands of reinforcements approaching from the north-west direction of Northallerton. Although the English defenders were undoubtedly intimidated by the sight of the Scottish army, they likely held confidence in the strength of their seemingly impenetrable position. The early morning air would have resonated with the cries of shouted orders, war cries, and the clamor of weapons, armor, and harness being prepared as the Scots formed their battle formations, ready to ascend the steep, narrow, and heavily fortified pass. This new edition of Clash of Crowns, enriched with extensive research and over 100 captivating images and maps, unfolds the narrative of the ensuing battle, the dramatic circumstances that led to its occurrence, and the profound impact of its outcome on the history of the British Isles.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 240 x 164 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399035910