Itinerary of the Month

Battle of Hastings Weekend 2008:

Celebrate the rich history of England on this weekend of discovery in Kent culminating with a visit to 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield to witness a dramatic re-enactment of this most famous battle on English soil.

Friday 10th October 2008:
Late afternoon arrival to hotel in Kent.

En route visit to:  Lullingstone General View Lullingstone General View 
Lullingstone Roman Villa
One of England's most exciting archaeological finds with wonderful mosaic floors, wall paintings, bath suite and skeletal remains. The inclusive audio tour offers a fascinating insight into the life of a middle class Roman family.

This year sees the return of Lullingstone's impressive collection of Roman artefacts, as part of a major new exhibition. Many have not been on permanent display since they were ecavated in the 1950's. Additionally visitors will be able to look down over the excavated walls and see areas light up as a special film reveals how they might have once appeared.

Saturday 11th October 2008:
Full day excursion to the Kentish coast. Start the morning with a visit to:

Dover Castle and the Secret Wartime Tunnels    Dover Castle, aerial view Aerial View of Dover Castle 
Travel deep inside the White Cliffs into the labyrinth of secret wartime tunnels and see where military personnel were stationed, the nerve centre for the evacuation of Dunkirk and the underground hospital where you follow the story of a wounded wartime pilot. Smells, sounds and film clips recreate the atmosphere of Britain during World War II. Above ground witness the castle in preparation for the arrival of Henry VIII and experience castle life during a medieval siege.

Enjoy lunch in the 1940's themed NAAFI restaurant.

Then continue along the coast to:                     Walmer Castle and Gardens Exterior of Walmer Castle
Walmer Castle & Gardens
This Tudor castle has been transformed over the years into an elegant home and residence of the Lord Wardens of the Cinque Ports. See the rooms of the Duke of Wellington who lived and died here. HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother was Lord Warden for 24 years and enjoyed many summers here. See the rooms in which she entertained and stroll through the extensive gardens, one of which was given to Her Majesty on her 95th birthday.

Enjoy afternoon tea in the on-site tearoom (not included in the entry price) before returning to the hotel.

Sunday 12th October 2008: Prepare for an amazing day out!   Battle Re-enactment Battle of Hastings  
1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield
October 2008 marks the aniversary of when King Harold and William the Conqueror met in a battle, which was to decide the future of England - The Battle of Hastings.

English Heritage will celebrate and commemorate the day in style with an action fuelled re-enactment of the famous battle on the very site where it took place. Children even have the chance to take part in the action and learn battle tactics in the popular children's mock battle. Fans of historical action can see foot soldiers and mounted knights make the day an unforgettable day out in history!

Why not also visit the major new exhibition which uses film, computer  Battle of Hastings 2006 Battle of Hastings Re-enactment 2006 technology and interactive exhibits to bring to life this bloodiest of conflicts.

1 day admission:
Adult: £9.00
Concession: £7.20
Child: £4.50

The above prices are subject to a 15% discount for groups of 11 people or more.

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