Battle in East Sussex, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
William the Conqueror Trail
| | Battle of Hastings, 1066 | |
Although traditionally called “The Battle of Hastings” the greatest conflict in English history took place here, and gave the simple name "Battle” to the charming market town that developed.
Historians generally agree now that the Abbey was founded when the papal authorities insisted the Normans do penance for the great loss of life incurred during the Conquest. The high altar was placed on the spot where Harold fell. Building started in 1070, and the abbey church was consecrated in 1094 in the presence of the Conqueror's son, King William Rufus.
The abbots at Battle were very powerful, and in the 14th century the Abbey played a vital role in defending the whole area against raids from the French; hence the fine fortified gatehouse (1338) and the wall walk. It was the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII that brought the Abbey's power to an end. Battle Abbey estate stayed in private hands until 1976, when it was purchased for the nation. It is now in the care of English Heritage. An audio tour in several languages brings the battle and the splendid ruins to life.
Nearby, the beautiful parish church of St Mary the Virgin, founded in 1115, is only one of the fascinating historic buildings that make a stroll through the town worth while. Others can be seen on the Battle Town Trail, details of which are available from the Tourist Information Centre.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Events.
Location. 50° 54.901′ N, 0° 29.139′ E. Marker is in Battle, England, in East Sussex. It is on High Street close to Park Lane, on the right when traveling south. Located next to the Battle Abbey Museum at the Battle of Hastings Battlefield. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Battle, England TN33 0AD, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Greater South East. Globally, it is on the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Atlantic Region, in Europe, in Atlantic Europe, on one of the British Isles, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Roman Empire.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Great Gatehouse (a few steps from this marker); The Battle of Hastings and Battle Abbey (a few steps from this marker); a different marker also named The Great Gatehouse (a few steps from this marker); Battle town and the abbeys estates (a few steps from this marker); On the very spot (within shouting distance of this marker); The Outer Court (within shouting distance of this marker); Battle Formation (about 150 meters away, measured in a direct line); The Cloister (about 150 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Battle.
Also see . . . English Heritage - 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield. (Submitted on January 16, 2019, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)
Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on January 16, 2019, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 790 times since then and 30 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 16, 2019, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.


