Battle of Llwchwr

The Battle of Llwchwr (or Battle of Gower) was fought between Welsh and Norman forces between Loughor and Swansea on New Year's Day 1136.

Battle of Llwchwr
Part of the Norman invasion of Wales
Commemoration stone of the Battle of Gower
Date January, 1136 Location Carn Coch Result Welsh victory
Belligerents
Welsh forces from Brycheiniog and Northern Gŵyr	Norman forces from Southern Gŵyr
Commanders and leaders
Hywel ap Maredudd	Unknown
Strength
Unknown	Unknown
Casualties and losses
Unknown	500 killed

Background

In 1135–1136 an opportunity arose for the Welsh to recover lands lost to the Marcher lords after Stephen de Blois had displaced his cousin Matilda of England from succeeding her father to the English throne the previous year, sparking the Anarchy in England.

The battle

A Welsh army was raised by the lord of Brycheiniog (Brecknockshire), Hywel ap Maredudd, containing men from Brycheiniog as well as men from Northern Gŵyr that despised the Norman rule in Southern Gŵyr. The Normans sallied out expecting to meet a small collection of Welsh raiding bands, however the scale of the Welsh army took them by surprise. The two armies met on the common of Carn Coch. In a violent melee, the Welsh army emerged victorious, the Normans having lost around 500 men.

Aftermath

The victory of the Welsh army inspired more rebellions around Wales including a battle near Kidwelly Castle fought by an army led by Gwenllian, Princess of Deheubarth and the Battle of Crug Mawr.

External References

[1] – I'R GAD: Welsh Medieval Battlefields Campaign.