In 1215 it was again besieged, this time by King John, who resented the defection of the northern barons; and it was captured, and again destroyed.

In 1318 it was captured and destroyed by Robert Bruce.
In 1341 it was besieged by David Bruce, but held out until relieved by King Edward, himself.

In 1383 it was again besieged by the Scots, and part of its fortifications demolished.

On the present occasion it was again captured, and razed to the ground.
Another portion of the Scottish army, plundering and burning, advanced along the valley of the Coquet.

As they approached, the inhabitants of the district round Alnwick began to pour into the castle; but orders were issued that all the fighting men should join the force of Sir Robert Umfraville, the sheriff of the district, who was gathering a force to give the Scots battle.
"I fear that there is small chance of the Scots making their way hither," Oswald's instructor said, in lugubrious tones.