History of Northumberland and Berwick-upon-Tweed

Looking back across the centuries, talking about the reivers and the hostility between England and Scotland one usually ends up discussing Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Back in the 13th century Berwick was probably one of the wealthiest cities in Scotland. In 1291 Edward the 1st presided over a great meeting to determine the King of Scotland. His choice was John Baliol, who in turn swore an oath of allegiance to the English crown.
However in 1296, a disaffected John Baliol rebelled and invaded Northumberland. Edward 1st rode northwards and his 1st target was Berwick. A combined land/sea attack overwhelmed the defences and the rich and wealthy town was put to the sword.
It is claimed that over 17,000 towns folk perished.

Over the years Berwick has seen many important historical figures. For instance

1. Edward II fled to Berwick after his humiliating loss at Bannockburn.
2. Twenty years later the longbowmen of Edward III inflicted equally awful punishment on the Scots at Halidon Hill.
3. James VI of Scotland, on his way to London to be crowned James I of England became terrified when crossing the river over the old wooden bridge at Berwick. The new stone bridge was called the King James Bridge ever since.