Ever since his defeat at Bannockburn in 1314, Edward II had been preoccupied by an ongoing political struggle with his senior barons, headed by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster. Repeated Scottish raids deep into the north of England had effectively been ignored: but the loss of Berwick was something different. Once the most important port in Scotland, it had been in English hands since 1296; during which time its defences had been greatly strengthened.
Ever since his defeat at Bannockburn in 1314, Edward II had been troubled by an ongoing power struggle with his senior nobles, led by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster. Repeated Scottish incursions into northern England had been largely disregarded: but the loss of Berwick was something distinct. Once the most crucial port in Scotland, it had been under English control since 1296; during which time its defenses had been significantly fortified.