English Heritage

From the drama of 1066 to the peace of a ruined abbey, there’s plenty for the whole family at Battle Abbey, the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings.

William the Conqueror’s Norman invaders met King Harold’s English army in this very place. Discover the story of the famous battle for yourself with interactive displays in the visitor centre. Then, accompanied by an audio tour, you can see where the Normans advanced against the English, and walk the battlefield, hunting out dramatic wooden figures.

The abbey was founded by William soon after the conquest, said to be in the exact spot where King Harold died. You can explore its ruins then climb to the gatehouse rooftop for panoramic views. Inside the gatehouse, an exhibition explores stories from the abbey’s history.

There’s a big café near the gatehouse, next to a fun children’s playground inspired by the site’s history.