Battle of Hastings re-enactment is returning next month

The English Heritage event at Battle Abbey relives all the drama, blood-curdling combat and human tragedy of the Battle of Hastings of 1066; the few hours which changed the course of English history.

It gives visitors a unique insight into life inside the Saxon and Norman camps as they prepare themselves for the fierce encounter between King Harold and his Saxons and the invading Normans, led by Duke William. They will be able to get up close with the soldiers and their entourage and see first-hand the intricacies of their weapons and weight of their armour, the clothes the combatants wore, the food they ate, and watch them practise their 11th century life skills; faithfully recreated by dedicated reenactors.

For those who fancy practising their combat skills there is have-a-go archery, sword school or kids’ cavalry training to take part in.

The action-packed day builds up to the grand finale, where, on the very spot where King Harold and Duke William fought in 1066, hundreds of reenactors, many on horseback, will recreate the intensity of the legendary conflict in which William the Conquerer, as he became known, emerged victorious and was able to seize the English throne. 

The Battle of Hastings is taking place on Saturday, October 12 and Sunday the 13th at 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, High Street, Battle, East Sussex, TN33 0AE between 10am and 4pm.  Tickets are now on sale, and advance online booking is recommended.