English Heritage

1071Building the Benedictine Abbey

William builds the abbey on the northern ridge of the battlefield to atone for the bloodshed of battle. The high altar marks the spot where Harold was killed.

Find out more about the foundation of Battle Abbey

1095Royal Presence

On 11 February the finished church is dedicated in the presence of King William Rufus, the Archbishop of Canterbury, seven bishops and a huge crowd of nobles and courtiers.

13th CenturyDrastic Renovations

The first monastic buildings are almost entirely replaced with the ones that remain standing today.

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1348The Black Death

The Black Death reduces the abbey's population from 52 to 34.

1538Royal Suppression

Henry VIII suppresses the monasteries and gives the abbey to his friend Sir Anthony Browne. Browne demolishes much of the monastery to build a guest wing for his country house.

1721Battle and the Websters

Rich merchant and history buff Sir Thomas Webster buys Battle. It remains with his descendants for most of the next 250 years.

1780-1800Rake and the Gambler

The 4th baronet, Sir Godfrey Webster, a notorious rake and gambler, runs up huge debts and eventually shoots himself in London.

1812-20Running Debts

The 5th baronet, another gambler, throws himself into renovating the property. He too accumulates massive debts and is forced to flee his creditors. The estate is rented out.

1857-1900New Owners

Lord Harry Vane and his wife, the future Duke and Duchess of Cleveland, buy the estate. They spend vast amounts and receive many famous visitors.

1901-22A Webster Return

On the death of the duchess, Sir Augustus Webster buys the estate back, with help from his wife, Mabel, a rich carpet heiress.

1922-3Battle Abbey School

The abbey is leased to a school, which still occupies the buildings.

1931Fire Damage

Fire sweeps through the abbey causing serious damage. This is later repaired by restoration architect Sir Harold Brakespear, who also excavates part of the cloister.

1944Normandy Invasion

History comes full circle when many men stationed at Battle during the Second World War take part in the invasion of Normandy.

2007History Remembered

English Heritage completes the visitor centre, which explores the background and events of the Battle of Hastings.

Learn more about the Battle of Hastings and Battle Abbey