Great Gatehouse from South One date that everyone remembers is October 14th 1066, when in a single day the Battle of Hastings changed English history.

Visit 1066 Battle of Hastings site and explore the historic battlefield and the ruins of the abbey that William the Conqueror later built to atone for the bloodshed of the Norman Conquest. You can even stand on the exact spot where tradition says King Harold fell.

A few parts of the original abbey remain today, as well as the Great Gatehouse, the finest of all surviving medieval abbey entrances, built c.1338. Interior view of Monks Common room with vaulted ceiling The abbey church and other monastic buildings now occupy a large part of the battlefield, where rival armies of an estimated 6-7000 each clashed. The battlefield can be viewed from the scenic terrace walk or accessed at the start of the country walk.

For more information about Battle Abbey please visit our dedicated website www.english-heritage.org.uk/battleabbey

New from February 2007

Visit our stunning new visitor centre which houses an imaginative, interactive exhibition setting the scene for the most important battle in English history.

Look at life through the eyes of the Normans and Saxons in the years leading up to the conflict and culminating in the furious battle.  Our auditorium uses the latest audiovisual and computer technology to bring events to life.
Get hands-on experience of the weapons and armour of the period through exciting interactive stations.  And complete your visit with an audio tour of the battlefield and the site of Battle Abbey, built by William the Conqueror to atone for the bloodshed.

The visitor centre also houses a stylish, new café where you can enjoy delicious light refreshments.  New visitor centre opens on Friday 9 February 2007.