On 7 July 1307, King Edward I died at Burgh by Sands in Cumberland while leading another campaign against Scotland. He had ruled England since 1272 and spent much of his later reign trying to bring Scotland under English control.

Edward was about sixty-eight years old when he died. His army was moving north to confront the forces of Robert the Bruce, who had been crowned King of Scots the previous year. Although illness had weakened him, Edward remained determined to continue the campaign.

His reign combined military expansion with important changes in government and law. He conquered Wales, strengthened royal administration and became known as the ‘Hammer of the Scots’ because of his repeated campaigns north of the border.

Edward’s death immediately brought his son to the throne as Edward II. The new king did not pursue the Scottish war with the same determination. English pressure eased, giving Robert the Bruce time to strengthen his position.

The change in leadership altered the course of the conflict. Seven years later, Edward II suffered a decisive defeat at Bannockburn, strengthening Robert the Bruce’s position. Edward I died before achieving the objective that had dominated the closing years of his reign.