Battle Abbey and Battlefield
Step back to 1066 at Battle Abbey and Battlefield, where history comes alive on the site of England's most famous battle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Battle Abbey and Battlefield
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back to 1066 at Battle Abbey and Battlefield, where history comes alive on the site of England's most famous battle.
"A truly interesting and enjoyable visit, despite the rather bad weather."
🎯 Audio Guide is a Must
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for invaluable historical insights.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Wear sturdy footwear for exploring the battlefield and abbey grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Battle Abbey Ruins
Main Abbey Site
Explore the atmospheric ruins of the Benedictine monastery built on the historic battlefield.
Battlefield Trail
Battlefield
Walk the grounds where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold in 1066.
Interactive Exhibition
Visitor Centre
Discover the story of the Battle of Hastings through engaging displays and a film.
Walled Garden
Abbey Grounds
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautifully maintained walled garden.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for 1066
Embrace the Battlefield Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Audio Guide is a Must
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for invaluable historical insights.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Wear sturdy footwear for exploring the battlefield and abbey grounds.
🚗 Free Parking for Members
English Heritage members get free parking; validate your card at the exit.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy excellent food and drinks at the cafe near the entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Audio Guide is a Must
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for invaluable historical insights.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Wear sturdy footwear for exploring the battlefield and abbey grounds.
🚗 Free Parking for Members
English Heritage members get free parking; validate your card at the exit.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy excellent food and drinks at the cafe near the entrance.
📸 Capture the Ruins
The atmospheric abbey ruins offer fantastic photo opportunities.
💡 Check for Special Events
Look out for unique events like the 'Illuminated Battle Abbey' for a magical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Battle Abbey and Battlefield for its rich historical significance and well-presented information. The audio guide and interactive exhibition are highlighted as particularly valuable. While the site is generally well-maintained, some note that the battlefield can be muddy after rain, and sheep may be present.
"Battle Abbey was built on the site of the Battle of Hastings. Managed by English Heritage, it's worth getting an annual membership for entry, and free parking nearby. (Use your membership card to validate the parking.
The entrance to the site is through the main gate house. Once inside, you can see an independent school which uses some of the rebuilt buildings.
There is a footpath made of small pebble chippings, and it's not too difficult to walk on. The footpath around the site is quite lengthy; however there are quite a number of benches along the longest section, so it's not too bad for those with reduced mobility.
There is a great cafe, and an exhibition room just a short distance from the gatehouse. There are both inside and outside tables, excellent food and drink, and some very clean toilets.
The footpath that runs along the rear of the site allows you to look down the hill towards the area where the Norman forces lined up before charging up the hill to attack the Saxon shield wall, just a short way back from the footpath. It looks quite steep, and it must have been an extremely challenging attack, even for fit and healthy soldiers.
There are a number of buildings that were part of the Abbey that visitors can enter. Only a few have any information, but it's still worth exploring to help understand what life might have been like.
It's also possible to see the site where it is believed an altar was constructed as part of the initial Abbey buildings, to commemorate the death of Harold Godwinson by William the Conqueror.
I would advise asking for one of their audio guide units; they are very easy to use, and provide some really valuable insight that supplements the many signboard.
I found it to be a truly interesting and enjoyable visit, despite the rather bad weather."
Anthony Sutcliffe
"Fantastic place, really well laid out with a fantastic audio tour. We visited on a slightly damp day so the ground was slightly muddy and the sheep on the field added some minor obstacles in the form of poo! You can cut that out by doing the short walk but the full battlefield tour is worth it if you can handle it
Parking is pretty good and it's free for English Heritage/CSSE members (English Heritage members scan their card on way out/CSSE members get a receipt at the entrance to use)
Cafe to the left of the entrance is great, lovely hot chocolate and latte!
Toilets at the cafe are the only ones on site so go before you walk...or join the sheep al fresco!"
Phil B
"We had a great visit. Plenty of information at the start and we used the audio guide for more info around the area. We were lucky to visit on a really sunny day. All the staff are so friendly and helpful. One of the top attractions I've been to in England. Highly recommend for a great day out!"
Tee MacPherson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Battle Abbey and Battlefield is located in Battle, East Sussex. You can reach it by car via the A21 and A270. For public transport, trains run to Battle station, which is a short walk from the site.
Yes, there is parking available. It's free for English Heritage members, who can validate their membership card at the exit. Non-members may need to pay.
Yes, it's feasible to visit Battle Abbey from Brighton. You can take a train from Brighton to Battle station, or drive, which takes approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
The site has a footpath made of pebble chippings, which is generally manageable. There are benches along the longer sections of the battlefield trail, making it more accessible for those with reduced mobility.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any potential closures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary. Consider an English Heritage annual membership if you plan to visit multiple sites, as it includes entry and free parking. Check the English Heritage website for current admission fees.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance online is often recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Family tickets are also often offered. Check the English Heritage website for details on concessionary rates.
Yes, your English Heritage membership grants you free entry to Battle Abbey and Battlefield, as well as free parking. Remember to bring your membership card.
Admission typically includes access to the abbey ruins, the battlefield trail, the interactive exhibition, the film about 1066, and the visitor centre. Audio guides are often available for an additional fee or included.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the atmospheric abbey ruins, walk the historic battlefield trail, visit the interactive exhibition and film about the Battle of Hastings, and enjoy the walled garden. 
Guided tours are sometimes available but are not always advertised or bookable in advance. It's worth arriving early and inquiring about any unscheduled tours.
The visitor centre's exhibition and film provide a great introduction. The audio guide and information boards along the battlefield trail offer deeper insights into the events of 1066.
Yes, there is a small playground to keep children entertained, and the interactive exhibits can also be engaging for younger visitors.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, especially of the ruins and grounds. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions in certain areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located to the left of the entrance. It offers excellent food and drinks, including hot chocolate and lattes, and has both indoor and outdoor seating.
The cafe serves a range of food and drink options, often including light meals, snacks, and beverages. Reviewers have praised their hot chocolate and lattes.
Yes, there are picnic benches available, some of which are in shaded areas, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy your own packed lunch.
The town of Battle itself offers various pubs, cafes, and restaurants. For pizza, 'Rustico' in Tunbridge Wells is mentioned as a good option after a visit.
The only toilets on site are located at the cafe near the entrance. It's advisable to use them before embarking on the battlefield walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The atmospheric abbey ruins, especially during golden hour, offer dramatic shots. The battlefield landscape provides sweeping views, and the walled garden offers picturesque scenes.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check English Heritage's specific drone policy before visiting.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always be respectful of the site and other visitors.
Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best light for capturing the ruins and landscape. Midday sun can be harsh.
Look for the carved wooden sculptures depicting Norman and Saxon soldiers along the battlefield trail, and the historical markers indicating key points of the battle.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to imagine the clash of swords and the strategies of the armies as you walk the grounds. The audio guide can also be adapted for younger listeners or used by parents to explain key historical points. Pack snacks and drinks, or enjoy the cafe's offerings, and make use of the picnic benches for a relaxed family meal.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Walk the actual battlefield, visualizing the troop movements and the strategic importance of the terrain. Explore the ruins of Battle Abbey, understanding its significance as a monument to William the Conqueror's victory. The site provides a rich tapestry of information for a deep dive into this pivotal period of English history.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Take your time walking the battlefield trail and soaking in the atmosphere of the abbey ruins. The visitor centre offers a great overview, and the cafe is a pleasant spot to rest and reflect. It's a straightforward and rewarding experience for independent explorers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of 1066
William the Conqueror ordered the construction of Battle Abbey on the battlefield to commemorate his victory and as a penance for the bloodshed. The high altar of the abbey church is believed to be located on the spot where King Harold fell. Although the abbey was dissolved in 1538, its ruins and the surrounding battlefield offer a tangible connection to this transformative event.
+1Visiting the site allows you to walk in the footsteps of history, visualizing the tactics and struggles of the Norman and Saxon armies. The interactive exhibition and audio guides bring the narrative of 1066 to life, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in English history.
+1Exploring the Abbey Ruins and Grounds
+1Beyond the abbey itself, the grounds of Battle Abbey and Battlefield offer diverse experiences. The battlefield trail allows you to traverse the landscape where the decisive battle took place, with interpretive boards and sculptures detailing the events. The walled garden provides a tranquil escape, showcasing a beautifully maintained space that contrasts with the historical intensity of the battlefield.
+1For those seeking a more immersive experience, the visitor centre offers an engaging exhibition and a film that vividly recounts the story of the Battle of Hastings. This combination of historical exploration, scenic beauty, and informative displays makes for a comprehensive and memorable visit.
+1Practicalities for Your Visit
To truly appreciate the history, utilizing the audio guide is highly recommended. It provides in-depth context and stories that supplement the information boards and enhance your understanding of the battle and the abbey's history.
For refreshments, the on-site cafe is well-regarded for its food and drinks, and there are also picnic areas available. Remember that the toilets are located at the cafe, so plan your facilities accordingly before heading out onto the battlefield.
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