The Battle of Fishguard - 22nd February 1797
The Battle of Fishguard took place on 22nd February 1797 in Pembrokeshire, Wales, when French troops landed near Fishguard. It became known as the last invasion of mainland Britain after local militia and civilians forced a French surrender within two days.
Here is a quick overview of the Battle of Fishguard, the last invasion of mainland Britain in 1797.
Battle of Fishguard – At a Glance
- Date: 22–24 February 1797
- Location: Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, Wales, UK
- Event: Last invasion anniversary of mainland Britain
- Invaders: French forces led by Colonel William Tate
- Outcome: French surrender at the Royal Oak
Why it matters: The Battle of Fishguard was the final time a foreign force landed on mainland Britain. Local militia and civilians, including Jemima Nicholas, repelled the invasion within two days.
The Last Invasion of Mainland Britain
In February 1797, the quiet coastal town of Fishguard in Pembrokeshire, Wales, became the unlikely stage for one of the most remarkable events in British history. The Battle of Fishguard is remembered as the last invasion of mainland Britain, when French troops landed on Welsh soil during the French Revolutionary Wars.
Despite the scale of the threat, the invasion was short-lived. Within just two days, local resistance forced the French army to surrender, securing Fishguard’s place in history.
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The French Landing at Fishguard
On 22nd February 1797, a French force of approximately 1,400 men came ashore at Carreg Wastad Point, just west of Fishguard. The troops were commanded by Colonel William Tate, an Irish-American officer leading a mixed force known as La Légion Noire.
Why Did France Invade Wales?
The invasion formed part of France’s wider strategy to weaken Britain by:
- Encouraging rebellion within Britain
- Diverting British military resources
- Supporting Irish revolutionary movements
However, poor planning and low discipline quickly undermined the mission.
Disorder Among the Invading Forces
Soon after landing, many of the French soldiers abandoned their orders. A lack of supplies and the discovery of locally stored alcohol led to widespread looting of nearby farms and villages.
Rather than advancing inland as planned, the invading force became scattered and disorganised, giving local defenders a crucial advantage.
Local Defence and Community Resistance
The alarm was raised when Fishguard Fort fired a warning cannon. Local militia, reservists, sailors, and volunteers quickly assembled to defend their town.
Welsh Women and the Red Shawls
A famous moment in the battle involved local women wearing traditional red Welsh shawls. From a distance, these were mistaken by the French for British soldiers in red uniforms, exaggerating the size of the defending force.
This visual deception played a key role in weakening French morale.
Jemima Nicholas - The Heroine of Fishguard
One of the most celebrated figures of the Battle of Fishguard is Jemima Nicholas, a local woman whose bravery became legendary.
A Pitchfork and Prisoners
According to historical accounts and local tradition, Jemima:
- Confronted French soldiers armed only with a pitchfork
- Captured several invaders
- Held them overnight in St Mary’s Church
Her courage was later recognised with a government pension, making her a lasting symbol of Welsh resilience.
Battle of Fishguard 1797 - Memorial to the heroine Jemima Nicholas.
The Surrender at the Royal Oak
By 24th February 1797, Colonel Tate realised his position was hopeless. Surrounded by determined local forces and facing collapsing morale, he agreed to an unconditional surrender.
Where Did the Surrender Take Place?
The surrender was signed at the Royal Oak Pub in Fishguard, a historic building that still stands today. This moment officially ended the invasion and ensured that no foreign force would again land on mainland Britain.
Why the Battle of Fishguard Matters
Although brief, the Battle of Fishguard is historically significant because it:
- Marked the last invasion of mainland Britain
- Highlighted the power of local civilian resistance
- Became a defining moment in Welsh and Pembrokeshire history
Today, Fishguard proudly remembers this event through memorials, historical landmarks, and local storytelling.
Visiting Battle of Fishguard Sites Today
Welsh History for Tourists - Pembrokeshire historical sites
Visitors to Fishguard can still explore key locations linked to the battle, including:
- Carreg Wastad Point – the French landing site
- Fishguard Fort – where the alarm was raised
- The Royal Oak Pub – site of the surrender
These landmarks offer a unique connection to one of Britain’s most extraordinary historical moments.
Conclusion
The Battle of Fishguard of 1797 remains a remarkable story of courage, community, and the last unsuccessful invasion of mainland Britain.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Battle of Fishguard
When was the Battle of Fishguard?
The Battle of Fishguard took place on 22nd February 1797, during the French Revolutionary Wars. The French invasion lasted just two days before surrendering on 24th February 1797.
Why is the Battle of Fishguard important?
The Battle of Fishguard is significant because it was the last invasion of mainland Britain. It represents the final time foreign troops successfully landed on British soil with the intent to invade.
Who invaded Britain in 1797?
A French force of approximately 1,400 troops, led by Colonel William Tate, landed near Fishguard in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Their goal was to destabilise Britain during the French Revolutionary Wars.
Where did the French land in Wales?
The French troops landed at Carreg Wastad Point, near Fishguard on the Pembrokeshire coast of West Wales.
How long did the invasion last?
The invasion lasted only two days. The French landed on 22nd February 1797 and surrendered at Goodwick Sands on 24th February 1797.
Who was Jemima Nicholas?
Jemima Nicholas was a local cobbler from Fishguard who became a Welsh heroine during the invasion. She is said to have captured several French soldiers and held them overnight in St Mary’s Church.
Where did the French surrender?
The French surrendered at Goodwick Sands, near Fishguard. The surrender negotiations are traditionally linked to the Royal Oak Pub in Fishguard.
Can you visit the Battle of Fishguard sites today?
Yes. Visitors can explore several historic locations connected to the invasion, including:
- Carreg Wastad Point (landing site)
- Goodwick Sands (surrender site)
- Fishguard Fort
- The Royal Oak Pub
These sites remain popular with visitors interested in Welsh and British history.