History of Battle in a Nutshell

On 14 October 1066, what we now know as the town of Battle witnessed the most celebrated confrontation to take place on English soil - the Battle of Hastings. It is home to the very spot where King Harold fell while his men fled, and William the Conqueror was triumphant in an event so significant, it completely changed the course of English history. The only battleaxe discovered from the battle is on display at the Battle Museum of Local History on the High Street.

The famous Battle Abbey was built by William the Conqueror during the years of 1070-1094 under instruction from the then Pope as penance for the loss of life incurred during the conflict. The town subsequently grew up beyond the Abbey walls to become the thriving community we have today.

In the 17th century, the town was the centre of the gunpowder industry. It is likely that the gunpowder to be used by Guy Fawkes in his foiled Houses of Parliament plot (The Gunpowder Plot) was produced in this area, a fact celebrated by the Bonfire Boyes every November with a spectacular fireworks display.

For more information, www.1066country.com.

Battle Today

Battle is now a thriving market town, its high street heaving with independent, family traders. Battle Farmers Market visits on the third Saturday of every month and various events, too numerous to mention here, occur throughout the year. Major events include:

• Easter Bonnet Parade / Battle Floral & Horticultural Society Spring Show
• 1066 Falconry at the Abbey
• Oaks Carriage Driving, Battle Abbey
• Battle Medieval Fayre
• Battle Floral & Horticultural Society Summer Show
• Battle of Hastings Boot Camp at the Abbey
• Battle Abbey Proms Weekend
• Battle of Hastings re-enactment
• Battle Bonfire Celebrations
• Christmas Shopping Weekend, Battle Abbey
• Battle Christmas Late Night Shopping - see the silly shopkeepers in fancy dress for one night only

For full details of these and all other events, contact Battle Tourist Information Centre on 01424 773 721.

English Heritage's Battle Visitor Centre has recently opened - see details on www.english-heritage.org.uk.
See also www.1066country.com for more local information.