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In 1066 Nation, East Sussex, historical past, journey, and nature come collectively to supply a various array of experiences.
Rolling countryside, wealthy historical past, and a battlefield that modified the story of England perpetually… that is 1066 Nation. This beautiful nook of East Sussex is dwelling to mile upon mile of peaceable countryside, dotted with picturesque villages and medieval cities.
Encompassing the attractive Sussex Weald and the jap finish of the East Sussex shoreline, the landscapes listed below are stuffed with historical past. That is the place one of many greatest moments in England’s historical past performed out. William the Conqueror landed at Pevensey in 1066, defeated the final Anglo-Saxon king on the Battle of Hastings, and ultimately conquered your entire nation.
In 1066 Nation, that historical past nonetheless feels alive. Go to the battlefield, discover Norman castles and church buildings, or stroll a path that follows the identical route because the Norman military.
It’s not all about historical past, although. The East Sussex shoreline and the beautiful countryside of the Sussex Weald, a part of the Excessive Weald AONB, are excellent settings for journey and having fun with nature.
Go to a winery, spot birdlife in nature reserves, or take an exhilarating RIB experience alongside the coast. Discover castles and nation manors, or head to historic cities looking for museums, unbiased procuring, and nice native eateries.
On this publish, I’ve shared my choose of the high issues to do round Battle, Hastings, and Rye in 1066 Nation. I’ve additionally included some itinerary concepts on the finish of the publish, that will help you plan your personal journey. No matter you stand up to, you’re certain to take pleasure in exploring this unimaginable hidden gem in southeast England.
This assessment was created as a part of a sponsored journey supported by Go to 1066 Nation. As at all times, all phrases and opinions are my very own.
The place is 1066 Nation?
1066 Nation covers the jap nook of East Sussex in Southeast England, stretching from the Sussex Weald to the coast.
The area encompasses the attractive landscapes of the Excessive Weald AONB, the East Sussex shoreline from Bexhill to Camber, and a few of the space’s most historic cities and villages – together with Hastings, Rye, and Battle.
Why 1066?
The identify, 1066 Nation, comes from the yr of the well-known Battle of Hastings and subsequent Norman conquest of England.
It’s maybe the one historic date everybody in England is aware of, and a pivotal second within the nation’s historical past, when William the Conqueror (Duke William of Normandy) received a battle towards King Harold, the final Anglo-Saxon king of England – ultimately conquering your entire nation.
The battle occurred proper right here in East Sussex, about 7 miles north of Hastings, at a web site the place right now the aptly named city of Battle stands.
Enjoyable Issues to do in 1066 Nation
1. Be taught concerning the Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey
As I’ve talked about above, 1066 Nation takes its identify from the well-known Battle of Hastings. Whether or not you’re British, or a customer from abroad, studying about this important piece of English historical past is an actual eye-opener.
Battle Abbey was based by William the Conqueror in 1071, 5 years after the battle, as an atonement and a memorial to the lifeless. After the dissolution of the monasteries within the 1500s, the abbey turned a rustic property. Right this moment, the principle a part of the nation home – previously the abbot’s lodging – is dwelling to a non-public college.
Begin with the Customer Centre for a superb introduction to the Battle of Hastings historical past – then comply with indicators for the Battlefield Stroll. This takes you thru the property and across the precise battlefield. Wood sculptures of troopers dotted alongside the path assist carry the story of the battle to life.
Subsequent, discover the ruins of the abbey cloisters. Elements of those buildings are nearly a thousand years previous! The church is not standing, however its format is marked out in stones, together with the place of the excessive altar – which is believed to be positioned on the spot the place King Harold fell.
Lastly, discover the Abbey Gatehouse – which dates from 1338 and homes a small museum about life within the abbey. Make sure to climb as much as the tower roof for glorious views of the encircling countryside.
2. Comply with the 1066 Nation Stroll
For eager hikers, the 1066 Nation Stroll is one of the best ways to discover the world’s wealthy historical past and beautiful nature. It’s a 31-mile long-distance strolling path from Pevensey (the place the Norman military landed) to Rye.
Alongside the way in which, the route passes a few of the space’s most historic websites, together with Battle Abbey, the Norman Herstmonceux Fortress, and medieval Winchelsea.
The total stroll could be executed in two days – or three in case you take it gradual. However you don’t should do the entire thing! The official information breaks the 1066 Nation Stroll into 6 quick sections, various from 4 to six.6 miles in size. So you possibly can choose a piece and luxuriate in a brief, straightforward hike by 1066 Nation.
I’d advocate the part from Brownbread Avenue to Battle Abbey, following within the footsteps of the Norman military and passing by the traditional Powdermills Wooden.
3. Discover Battle
When you’re visiting Battle Abbey, don’t neglect to discover the city of Battle itself. It is a cute, vibrant little nation city filled with quirky unbiased outlets and eateries.
Begin with a stroll right down to St Mary’s Church to go to Battle Tapestry, a form of modern-day sequel to the Eleventh-century Bayeux Tapestry, crafted in 2017 by resident Tina Greene and over 700 native stitchers.
Whereas the Bayeux Tapestry depicts the occasions main as much as the Norman Conquest, the Battle Tapestry tells the story of how the city of Battle developed between the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and the founding of St Mary’s Church in 1115.
Subsequent, hit the Excessive Avenue to discover Battle’s fab unbiased scene. I extremely advocate Rother Books (bookshop in a ravishing timber-framed constructing), BRITISH design BRITISH made (for arts, crafts, and items from British makers), and White Sails (for garments and cute dwelling furnishings)… however there are hundreds extra nice outlets to discover.
Lastly, swing by Battle Faucet to strive a few of Battle Brewery’s award-winning beers (I favored Fyrd’s Gold), together with different native drinks.
4. Wander the Historic Streets of Rye
The charming little city of Rye close to the coast of East Sussex has develop into some of the fashionable locations to go to within the south of England. This medieval city is stuffed with historical past and character – particularly the well-known Mermaid Avenue.
Begin with a go to to Rye Heritage Centre to see the well-known Rye City Mannequin – constructed by an area couple in 1973. The good Story of Rye sound and lightweight present brings the mannequin to life whereas narrating the city’s historical past. Just a few native legends and ghost tales are labored in, including a contact of intrigue. Don’t miss it!
Subsequent, discover the picturesque cobbled streets of Rye’s compact centre. Mermaid Avenue is the spotlight, dwelling to the long-lasting Mermaid Inn, certainly one of England’s oldest pubs. The primary constructing dates from 1420, when the city was rebuilt after a fireplace, however the cellars date from 1156. It’s additionally mentioned to be essentially the most haunted inn in England, with common sightings of spirits reported by employees and guests.
Ebook your keep at Mermaid Inn right here
Don’t miss the Landgate, a part of the unique metropolis partitions courting from 1329, or the picturesque West Avenue. Go to the red-brick Lamb Home for a glimpse inside a Georgian townhouse with a wealthy historical past. Lastly, you’ll want to climb the bell tower of St Mary’s Church for the very best view of Rye.
5. Go on a Seal Safari
Craving journey? Head to Rye Harbour for a thrilling, fast-paced RIB experience alongside the coast with Full Throttle Boat Charters.
Their Seal Safari boat journeys (from £35pp) are a superb approach to expertise the East Sussex shoreline – and get near a few of 1066 Nation’s cutest residents!
Skipper Will tells me he’s by no means not seen seals in “Seal Bay” – so you’re just about assured to identify some. An entire colony of gray seals hang around on the foot of the cliffs close to Fairlight; on my go to, we noticed dozens. The boat excursions don’t get too shut, in order to not disturb the seals, however you possibly can nonetheless get a terrific view of the lovable creatures swimming.
Will had some spare binoculars I used to be in a position to borrow – however I’d advocate bringing your personal, and a digicam with a zoom lens you probably have one.
6. Step Again in Time at Bodiam Fortress
Bodiam Fortress is well some of the dramatic sights in 1066 Nation – and an absolute must-visit! This 14th-century smash is precisely what you consider while you image a fortress. A traditional medieval fortress with towers, portcullis, and a moat, set inside the picturesque
It was in-built 1385 and fell into disrepair through the fifteenth and Seventeenth centuries. Right this moment, this evocative smash is protected by the Nationwide Belief – so you possibly can discover contained in the ruins, and even climb a few of the towers. The views of the beautiful Sussex countryside from the highest are unbeatable!
Bodiam Fortress can be dwelling to 6 species of bats, together with the most important identified roost of Daubenton’s bats within the UK. It’s the right spot for them: the towers are excellent nesting locations, and each the moat and close by River Rother entice the bugs the bats feed on.
You possibly can generally spot the bats sleeping when you discover the fortress towers. When you can’t go to the fortress after sundown, in case you’re strolling close by you’ll be capable of see them flocking from the towers to feed.
7. Take a Tour of Oxney Natural Winery
South East England has develop into well-known as a wine-producing area in recent times, and East Sussex is not any exception. The truth is, East Sussex is dwelling to a few of the UK’s main wineries.
Considered one of these, Oxney Natural Winery, was proper subsequent door to my glamping web site within the Sussex Weald – so after all I had to pay a go to!
Though there are numerous wineries dotted round East Sussex, this one is fully natural, so it’s effectively price visiting if you wish to strive one thing a bit completely different.
Based in 2012 by Kristin Syltevik and Paul Dobson, Oxney is a beautiful property with 35 acres of vines surrounded by the tranquil Sussex Weald. You possibly can go to for a tour to study extra concerning the natural winemaking course of – and, extra importantly, to strive their wonderful wines.
Sitting within the solar with proprietor Kristin, chatting about wine and the glories of East Sussex, was simply one of many highlights of my journey! I’ve tried (and cherished) Oxney’s traditional glowing wine earlier than, so I used to be excited to strive the complete vary. The glowing rose was my private favorite – excellent for a sunny day.
8. Paddleboard on the River Rother
Paddleboarding is certainly one of my favorite actions, particularly on rivers and lakes. It’s such a soothing, light journey and a good way to discover the countryside.
Flowing gently by the Sussex Weald, the River Rother is a perfect setting for paddleboarding. Sluggish-moving, broad, and straightforward to navigate – it’s excellent for learners.
Hire a board from Bodiam Boating Station (£15 first hour) and set off alongside the river for beautiful views of the encircling countryside. In an hour, you may make it to the Kent & East Sussex Railway railway bridge and again – in case you’re fortunate, you might even see one of many steam trains crossing.
If in case you have extra time (and vitality) it’s additionally doable to paddle all the way in which to Bodiam Fortress within the different route. The pleasant employees at Bodiam Boating Station will likely be completely satisfied to share ideas on your journey.
You can too borrow kayaks, rowing boats, and multi-person canoes – however SUP will at all times be my favorite! If you’re executed, you’ll want to gas up at Bodiam Boating Station’s fabulous, Scandi-inspired Lime Wharf Cafe. Menus change with the seasons and are at all times stuffed with inventive, domestically sourced dishes.
9. Dine with Alpacas at Fisherwood Farm
Within the coronary heart of the Sussex Weald, you’ll discover some of the uncommon issues to do in 1066 Nation. Head to Fisherwood Farm to meet their three pleasant pet alpacas: Pepe, Ollie, and Ricardo.
Founders Nicki and Carol supply three unbelievable alpaca experiences at their picturesque smallholding. A forty five-minute go to, the place you’ll get to feed the alpacas and meet all of the livestock, prices simply £25 for a bunch of six – so it is a unbelievable, reasonably priced possibility.
However for one thing a bit extra particular, I’d extremely advocate choosing both cream tea (£25pp) or afternoon tea (£40pp) with the alpacas.
I attempted out the cream tea expertise – and it was simply one of many highlights of my journey! You get the entire place to your self, and a scrumptious cream tea with do-it-yourself scones served within the backyard overlooking the alpaca subject.
When you’re executed consuming, it’s time to feed the alpacas. They’re very pleasant, very cute, and VERY grasping – making for a brilliantly entertaining expertise.
10. Discover the Coastal City of Hastings
Nestled alongside the East Sussex Coast, Hastings is a little bit of a hidden gem on the south coast of England. However this full of life coastal city presents an ideal mix of historical past, tradition, and breathtaking sea views.
There’s a lot to see and do right here that you could possibly simply spend a full day or extra exploring. Take a look at my good friend Chloe’s fab information to the very best issues to do in Hastings for inspiration! However in case you’re quick on time, these are the highlights…
- Discover the cobbled streets of the Outdated City, akin to George Avenue, lined with quirky outlets, galleries, and eateries.
- Stroll alongside the seafront: go to Hastings Pier, benefit from the seashores, and take a experience on Hastings Miniature Railway.
- Take the East Hill Elevate. Trip the funicular to the highest of the cliffs for panoramic views and entry to Hastings Nation Park.
- Go to Hastings Museum & Artwork Gallery to study extra concerning the space. Don’t miss the exhibit about Annie Brassey, an area Victorian woman who travelled the world by yacht along with her household. An inspiration for feminine travellers like me!
11. Go to Rudyard Kipling’s Dwelling at Bateman’s
No go to to the Sussex Weald is full with out a go to to Bateman’s, the beautiful Seventeenth-century Jacobean nation home that was as soon as dwelling to the creator Rudyard Kipling.
Relationship from at the very least 1634, the historic property was purchased by the Jungle Ebook creator and his spouse in 1902. It was left to the Nationwide Belief, who’ve preserved the home because it was left – proper right down to Kipling’s writing desk in his examine.
Even in case you’re not a fan of the author, it’s price visiting Bateman’s solely to discover the creaking previous home with its vintage furnishings and oak panelling. Then there are the beautiful English gardens, full with orchard, rose backyard, and lily pond, which provide year-round magnificence. If in case you have loads of time, you may also go for a stroll on the broader property to discover the beautiful Sussex Weald countryside.
12. Birdwatching and Bike Using in Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Most individuals flock to Rye for the picturesque historic city, however there’s additionally loads of nature to discover within the space, too. Don’t miss Rye Harbour Nature Reserve for beautiful views, nice birdwatching, and an array of wildlife-rich coastal habitats together with shingle, saltmarsh, and reedbeds.
Begin with a go to to Rye Harbour Discovery Centre to study concerning the native atmosphere and the animals that decision this space dwelling. The cafe right here even supplies binoculars – so you possibly can spot birds when you take pleasure in a espresso and a domestically baked cake!
One of the best ways to discover is to hire a motorbike from Harbour Cycles and set off on a experience across the reserve. They’ll offer you a digital map with completely different path choices – don’t miss Henry VIII’s Camber Fortress or the Mary Stanford Lifeboat Home as you cycle round.
If in case you have loads of time, you possibly can even cycle from the reserve right down to Pett Degree seaside – the place at low tide you possibly can see fossilised tree stumps and the wreck of the Seventeenth century warship, HMS Anne.
Glamping in 1066 Nation & the Sussex Weald
Glamping is the right approach to immerse your self within the historic landscapes and peaceable countryside of the Sussex Weald and 1066 Nation. There are dozens of unbelievable glamping websites and distinctive lodging dotted all through East Sussex – so that you’ll be spoilt for selection!
Starcroft Farm Cabins – glamping close to Battle
Starcroft Farm Cabins are excellent for historical past lovers. They’re proper on the 1066 Nation Stroll, round a 40-minute stroll from Battle Abbey, set in a peaceable wildflower meadow on the sting of Powdermill Woods.
There are three cabins on the positioning, handcrafted by an area builder utilizing sustainable, native supplies – and each is themed round a unique historic interval. Click on right here to learn my full assessment to seek out out extra!
Swallowtail Hill, close to Rye
Over close to the attractive city of Rye, Swallowtail Hill presents a number of utterly distinctive glamping choices on a tranquil non-public nature reserve. There are six quirky cabins dotted throughout a rewilded farm run utterly for conservation (no crops or livestock).
Expertise a sustainable, off-grid keep in an expensive cabin in its personal non-public patch of the character reserve – as “away from all of it” because it will get! Some, just like the Roundhouse (the place I stayed) even have a wood-fired scorching tub. Click on right here to learn my full assessment of Swallowtail Hill.
How Many Days in 1066 Nation?
I spent 5 days exploring 1066 Nation. That was loads of time to see and do the whole lot I’ve talked about on this weblog publish – in addition to spend plenty of time enjoyable at my beautiful glamping lodging.
Nonetheless, in case you’re quick on time, you possibly can nonetheless see and do quite a bit in 1066 Nation. I believe an extended weekend or a two- or three-night keep can be ample time to discover. You simply want to choose and select a number of of the actions that attraction most to you.
Or, you could possibly base your self in one of many historic cities, and plan an itinerary specializing in that space. I’ve shared some pattern itineraries beneath to present you an thought of how you can form your time.
1066 Nation 2-Day Itinerary: Hastings and Battle
- First morning: discover Battle Abbey
- Lunch in Battle and discover the outlets on Battle Excessive Avenue
- Afternoon: stroll a piece of the 1066 Nation Stroll
- Second morning: go to Bateman’s
- Cream tea alpaca expertise at Fisherwood Farm
- Afternoon: Discover Hastings and/or go to the seaside
1066 Nation 2-Day Itinerary: Rye
- First morning: take a Seal Safari with Full Throttle Boat Charters
- Lunch in Rye and discover the city centre
- Afternoon: Bike experience or stroll round Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
- Second Morning: Go to Bodiam Fortress
- Lunch at Bodiam Boating Station, then paddleboarding on the River Rother
- Late afternoon: Tour and tasting at Oxney Natural Winery
So, that’s my information to the greatest issues to see and do in 1066 Nation – together with Battle, Rye, Hastings, and the Sussex Weald.
Discover the wealthy historical past, distinctive cities, and picturesque countryside of this beautiful nook of East Sussex. This really is certainly one of Southeast England’s high hidden gems!
When you’ve bought a query – or a advice of your personal – please go away a remark on the finish of this publish.