Although a relatively small action, the battle of Boroughbridge is significant for its comprehensive destruction of the rebel force and subsequent execution of many of the leading figures opposing Edward II.

It has also been suggested that the battle was the first example in the 14th century of knights and men at arms dismounting and fighting on foot, as they were to do at Halidon Hill (Northumberland, 1333 ) and Crecy (France, 1346). However too much should not perhaps be made of this because of the special circumstances of the crossing of a narrow bridge, while the action across the ford was by mounted cavalry. Perhaps more significant and relevant as a precursor to Crecy is the effective use made by Harcla of the longbow against heavily armoured knights and men at arms. Yet even this is presaged by the action two centuries earlier at Northallerton (North Yorkshire, 1138) where, moreover, the men at arms had also dismounted to fight on foot.