Robert the Bruce and the Battle of Glen Trool

While Robert and his men were relaxing in Glen Trool, his cousin and enemy, Aymer De Valence discovered his whereabouts. What followed has been called ‘The Battle of Glen Trool’.

The Battle of Glen Trool in April 1307 was one of Bruce’s early victories. This battle took place in the narrow glen of Glen Trool in Galloway, Scotland. Bruce, with a small force, used the terrain to his advantage. He ambushed a larger English force led by Aymer de Valence, the Earl of Pembroke. By rolling boulders down the steep hillsides into the English troops and following up with an attack, Bruce’s men managed to inflict significant casualties and force the English to retreat.

This victory was more than just a tactical success; it boosted the morale of Bruce’s supporters and helped solidify his position as a leader capable of challenging English dominance. The site of the battle is marked by Bruce’s Stone, a memorial overlooking Loch Trool.

After ambushing Aymer de Valence succesfully at Glen Trool, Robert and his men made for Craigencaillie. Unfortunately, they were being closely followed by John Comyn’s Cousin, John of Lorne and a hound that had once belonged to Robert….