August: Battle of the Standard

Wednesday 20th August 2025, 10am-2pm
Heritage Hub, Northallerton Library
Painting of the Battle of the Standard by John Gilbert. A dramatic historical painting of a medieval battle scene. Two central figures in white robes stand on a raised platform, surrounded by soldiers on foot and horseback wielding spears and shields. A large red banner waves beside them.

Description

Step back nearly 900 years and discover the dramatic events of the Battle of the Standard, fought on Cowton Moor near Northallerton on 22 August 1138. This pivotal clash saw the English army halt a Scottish invasion led by King David I, who sought to expand his territory and support his niece Matilda’s claim to the English throne over King Stephen.

On Wednesday, 20 August, from 10am to 2pm, drop in to Northallerton Library and meet our knowledgeable volunteer, dressed as an authentic Scots fighter. With a hide shield and safe-to-handle replica weapons, he’ll bring the battlefield to life and answer your questions about the conflict, the combatants, and the wider historical context.

Explore engaging interpretation panels, detailed diagrams, and a striking painting by John Gilbert, all helping to tell the story of the local fighters and noblemen’s troops - led by William of Aumale -who defended the north while King Stephen battled rebel barons in the south.

No booking required—just drop in! Click here to see the Library's opening times and facilities. 

Location

54.336439825609, -1.4321644134918