Battle of Falkirk
After the failed invasion of England the Jacobite Army had retreated all the way back to Scotland and besieged the Government Forces under the command of Major General Blakeney at Stirling Castle. In an attempt to relieve the siege, Lieutenant General Henry Hawley led an army of around 7,000 men from Edinburgh.
Touring the Battle of Falkirk site
Marching north, Hawley encamped his Army near Falkirk. The Jacobites sensing an opportunity marched up onto Falkirk Muir , a site that overlooked the Government camp.
Hawley sensing late in they that he was about to put at a disadvantage by the Jacobites marched up onto Falkirk Muir to meet them. Late in the afternoon, in stormy conditions and failing light the two armies met.
Date: 17 January 1746
Location: Falkirk, Scotland
Result: Jacobite victory
British Government forces
Commander: Lieutenant General Sir Henry HawleyStrength: 7000
Casualties: 350 killed or wounded
Jacobite forces
Commander: Prince Edward Stuart and Lord George MurrayStrength: 8,000
Casualties: 130
A professional and well prepared Government Army meets a larger Jacobite Army. The result chaos, confusion and heroics. Throughout the tour, there will be plenty of opportunities to take photographs, ask questions, discuss your ideas and enjoy the vivid and beautiful Stirlingshire countryside.
Viewpoints:
View Point 1. The Jacobites assemble, deploy for battle, reconsider their options and then make their initial movements.
View Point 2. The Government Army assembles, deploys for battle and reacts to the Jacobites' flanking movements.
View Point 3. The Highland Charge. Devastating Jacobite attack on the Government Left Flank. Government left destroyed.
View Point 4. The Government Right holds and counterattacks.
View Point 5. Evening falls. Jacobites claim victory.