1066 Country is now recognised throughout the world as a leading destination of historical significance. The thriving market town of Battle is home to the very spot where King Harold fell during the Battle of Hastings.

When Duke William crossed the Channel in 1066 there was no town here, just a quiet stretch of rough grazing which, for one furious day, became the most famous battlefield in history.  In the years that followed, the Abbey grew up on the site of the Norman victory and the town developed so that today there are many fine buildings many of which date from Medieval times.

An event so significant it completely changed the course of English history - and today the Battle of Hastings is probably the one event in history that every adult and child can recall.

Following the battle, between years 1070 and 1094, William the Conqueror built Battle Abbey - a penance ordered by the Pope for the loss of life incurred in the conflict.  The town subsequently grew up beyond the Abbey walls to become the thriving community you see today.

Towards the northern end of the High Street, the medieval Almonry and its Gardens, originally built in 1090, is now home to the Town Council and the Battle Museum of Local History.

As the town grew, the Church of St Mary the Virgin was built and it stands to this day to the east of the Abbey gates.

If Battle's famous origins were not enough in the 17th century, the town was the centre for the gunpowder industry.  It is likely that the gunpowder, which Guy Fawkes hoped to use, came from this area and the Battle Bonfire Boyes celebrate the gunpowder plot each November with a spectacular fireworks display.  The town attracts visitors to its many other traditional events including a monthly Farmers' Market; marbles matches and bonnet parades at Easter and a Medieval Fayre during the late May bank holiday.  Christmas is also a busy time with the town's lights being switched on at the end of November and a late night shopping event in the middle of December. 

Throughout the summer flower displays are an example of the town's concern to protect and promote the environment.  These form the basis of the town's entry into the South and South East in Bloom competition.  The town overall has regularly achieved Silver Gilt standard and the Almonry garden was given a Gold award in successive years in the parks and gardens category.

Today Battle offers a diverse shopping experience set against a uniquely historical backdrop.  The picturesque High Street, quaint 'twittens' (passageways) and squares offer treasures of every kind.

Within easy distance of Battle you will also find everything from golf to horse riding, National Trust and English Heritage properties, gardens, vineyards, theatres, cinemas, indoor and outdoor sports - and the seaside!