The March to Prestonpans

Bonnie Prince Charlie's march south in 1745, culminating in the Battle of Prestonpans, was a pivotal moment in the Jacobite Rising. This daring campaign saw the Prince and his Highland army traverse treacherous terrain, notably the Corrieyairack Pass, in a bold attempt to reclaim the British throne. This reflection explores the strategic decisions, challenging journey, and the dramatic impact of this historic march on the course of Scottish history.

  • Strategic Importance: The march aimed to outmaneuver Hanoverian forces and gather support for the Jacobite cause.
  • Challenging Journey: The Corrieyairack Pass presented a formidable obstacle, demanding immense resilience from the Jacobite army.
  • Battle of Prestonpans: A decisive victory for the Jacobites, boosting morale and attracting new recruits.
  • Legacy: The 1745 Rising left an enduring mark on Scottish national identity and memory.

 

Track 5. Prestonpans (1.23 of 4.56)

Bonnie Prince Charlie

Marching South via the Corrieyairack Pass

In August 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie, leading his Jacobite army, began his audacious march south from the Scottish Highlands. A critical part of this journey involved navigating the Corrieyairack Pass, a winding military road built by General Wade. This perilous route, with its notorious seventeen hairpin bends, served as a strategic choke point, offering a direct, albeit challenging, path into the Lowlands and towards Edinburgh.

The Jacobite forces successfully traversed the pass, outmaneuvering government troops who had intended to intercept them. This bold move allowed the Prince to quickly advance, capturing Edinburgh without a fight. The subsequent Battle of Prestonpans, on September 21, 1745, saw a stunning victory for the Jacobites against Sir John Cope's government army, significantly bolstering their numbers and confidence. This early success marked a high point in the ’45 Rising, demonstrating the Jacobites' tactical prowess and the Prince's charismatic leadership, before their eventual defeat at Culloden.