Battle

Battle in East Sussex Town Guide

About Battle in East Sussex

The attractive town of Battle gets it name from the Battle of Hastings, which was fought between Harold the Saxon king and William the Conqueror in 1066. The battle was so significant it changed the course of English history. The town grew up around the Abbey of St Martin which was built by William the Conqueror after the battle. It is said that William vowed that should he win the battle he would build such an abbey. The abbey was built between 1070 and 1094, and the high altar is believed to have been placed on the spot where Harold fell. Today the Abbey ruins and the battlefield are cared for by English Heritage and are well worth a visit. The imposing Abbey gatehouse built circa 1338 can be seen as you look down the length of the High Street.

Battle has some notable Georgian buildings along its High Street. The cottages and houses near the Abbey date from around 1700. The parish church of St Mary was built in Norman times and for the most part is 12th century in construction. It offers the visitor rare 14th century wall paintings and a Norman font amongst other things. At the Northern end of the High Street can be found the Almonry which was built in 1090 and now houses the Town Council and the Battle Museum of Local History.

What’s new?

Rush, Witt & Wilson
Rush, Witt & Wilson

We are located in the heart of Battle High Street opposite the imposing Abbey, site of the 1066 Battle of … more

Listed in: Estate Agents

Message Board

Calling Gardeners

I have a lot of crocosmia on offer. If anyone is interested in collecting it from me, let me know. … more

Help Finding an Old Friend – Sue Tibbles

Hi everyone, I need some help getting a message to an old friend, Sue Tibbles (this was her maiden name). … more

Attractions and Activities

Stephen Mason – Silk Painting

I offer Silk painting sessions over two or three days at my studio and C17 home in Battle. No previous experience is required and I will work at a pace which suits you . All materials, Organic Tea/Coffee and Biscuits … more

1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield

Fantastic family fun – 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield is an incredible day out where visitors can relive one of the most famous dates in history. Discover the events that took place with interactive exhibits and the dramatic … more

Battle Methodist Church

Battle Methodist Church meets at their Emmanuel Centre on Harrier Lane off Marley Lane. The centre is designed for mixed church and community use with three well equipped meeting rooms and a coffee lounge. Full disabled access and large car … more

Accommodation

The Abbey Hotel

Recently refurbished, this Grade II listed hotel is situated in the heart of the small market town of Battle, opposite the historic site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. There is free Optic WiFi. The restaurant offers locally sourced produce … more

The Bull

Situated in Battle and with Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park reachable within 24 km, The Bull features a garden, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi and a bar. The property is set 25 km from Eastbourne Pier, 41 km from Glyndebourne … more

The George Hotel

Around 300 years old, The George Hotel provides comfortable accommodation for visitors to the historic town of Battle. You can visit the place where English history changed forever, and walk over the battlefield where William the Conqueror stood. The George … more

Restaurants

De La Warr Pavilion

The first public Modernist building to be opened in the UK in 1935, this Grade 1 listed, internationally renowned icon re-opened after a £9m lottery funded restoration and redevelopment. It is now the South East region’s most significant centre for … more

Towns and villages near Battle …

Explore Battle ...