A body of troops was at once sent forward from England, and, being strengthened by bodies drawn from all the garrisons, assembled at Biggar.

The army was commanded by the Earl of Kent.

Heralds were sent to Wallace offering him not only pardon but an honourable post if he would submit, but warning him that if he refused this offer he should, when taken, be treated as a rebel and hung.
Wallace briefly refused submission, and said that he should be ready to give battle on the following morning.
At daybreak the army set forth, divided into three parts.

Wallace, with Boyd and Auchinleck, commanded one; Sir John Grahame, with Wallace of Riccarton, the second; Sir Walter of Newbigging, with his son David and Sir John Clinto, the third.

The cavalry were placed in front.