1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield

1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield - Family Property Guide

Explore the battlefield where England's future was decided and the abbey built by William the Conqueror to commeorate the battle. With the towering gatehouse, impressive dormitory where the monks used to sleep, and even a walled garden, there are centuries of history to uncover.

We've opened a new family exhibition and play area, as well as a new viewing platform on the rooftop of the gatehouse with sweeping views across the town, so the whole family can enjoy a day out together.

Family Essentials

  • Food and drink: There is a cafe onsite which offers a sandwiches, snacks, hot and cold drinks. You are also welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the picnic area with benches and tables.
  • Toilets: There are accessible toilets and baby changing facilities on site.
  • Dogs: Allowed on a lead in the outside areas.
  • Parking: There is a large car park near the entrance, with a £4.00, flat all day fee. Parking is free for members of English Heritage displaying a valid membership sticker.
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Inside the new exhibiton in the gatehouse, with a shield wall of replica shields from 1066, information baords and arrows haging from the ceiling.

Travelling in time

The fantastic visitor centre tells the story of 1066 and features fantastic hands-on interactive displays. You can see some of the fearsome weapons the soldiers would have used, and find out if you're strong enough to carry a shield and sword into battle.

Climb to the top of the gatehouse for a view of the battlefield. There's also an audio guide just for kids.

History Hunt

  • Let out your best battle cry and strike a pose beside the wooden sculptures of Norman and Saxon soldiers which line the footpath around the battlefield.
  • Look out for the stone which marks the high altar William the Conqueror built on the spot where King Harold fell in the Battle of Hastings. 
  • See if you can spot the stone faces peering down at you from the walls of the gatehouse passage.

Places to play

Our unique play area was opened for the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings in 2016, and was designed by Studio Hardie - the team behind George Clark's Amazing Spaces. Featuring slides, swings and plenty of play equipment to explore and clamber on, it is also next to the outside seating for the cafe, so you can keep an eye on the kids in comfort.

Plan your visit

Family Days Out

Discover more great places to visit across the country, from mighty Norman castles to atmospheric abbeys.