The siege was part of a campaign during which Maurice conquered the cities Turnhout, Alphen, Rijnberk, Meurs, Bredevoort, Groenlo, Goor, Enschede, Oldenzaal, Ootmarsum, and Lingen.

Bredevoort was considered impregnable, the city was surrounded by swamps which made it very difficult to get guns within shooting range.

Finally, a large breach in the wall was made which meant that Maurice's troops could storm the city.

The defenders under Gardot agreed to the terms and were allowed on payment of ransom to leave the city.

One of Maurice's troops looking for loot in the night knocked a candle which then ignited a bundle of hay which then set fire to the building.