Named after the Battle of Hastings, the most famous conflict on English soil, this compact market town grew up alongside the battleground, tranquil medieval abbey and surrounding ancient woodlands – largely unchanged to this day.
Celebratory bonfires and battle re-enactments, a year-round programme of lively, friendly events, plus an annual festival of contemporary arts, theatre and music, are all features of its enduring heritage.
The area is well served by public transport, with regular trains from London Charing Cross and London Bridge to Battle. Once you're here, there are also regular trains into Hastings and, on to Bexhill and the rest of 1066 Country, as endorsed by Mary Beard in the podcast below.
