Key Facts
- Dates
- 7–10 March 1322
- Conflict
- Part of the Despenser War
- Key obstacle
- Fortified bridge over the River Trent
- Delay caused by
- Floodwaters at Walton-on-Trent ford, 3 days
- Aftermath
- Lancaster captured at Boroughbridge, then executed
Strategic Narrative Overview
Edward arrived at Cauldwell on 7 March 1322 and attempted to use the ford at Walton-on-Trent to outflank Lancaster's fortified position. Floodwaters delayed the crossing for three days while a portion of his force faced Lancaster's men at the bridge. On 10 March, the main royal force successfully crossed at Walton and moved to the south side of Burton. Lancaster, seeing he was heavily outnumbered, abandoned his position and withdrew northwards rather than risk open battle.
01 / The Origins
During the Despenser War, Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster led a baronial rebellion against his cousin King Edward II of England. Edward had already defeated Lancaster's Marcher Lord allies in Wales and was advancing northwards. Lancaster, seeking to halt the royal army's progress, fortified the strategically important bridge over the River Trent at Burton upon Trent, a key crossing point that could block Edward's northward march.
03 / The Outcome
Lancaster's retreat was pursued vigorously by royalist forces, and he was captured shortly after at the Battle of Boroughbridge. He was subsequently executed on Edward II's orders. Though the immediate baronial threat was suppressed, Edward's rule remained unpopular among the nobility, and he was ultimately forced to abdicate in favour of his son Edward III in 1327.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
King Edward II of England.
Side B
1 belligerent
Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster.
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.