I didn’t think I’d see another reference to Edith Swan-Neck on Qype!
(See: http://www.qype.co.uk/place/262310-Waltham-Abbey-Church-W…. It’s where King Harold was buried after the Battle of Hastings.)
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English Heritage: Battle Abbey and Battlefield
Battle
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?, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AD
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01424 773792
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5 reviews of English Heritage: Battle Abbey and Battlefield in English
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I've visited many times over the past 15 or so years, as I participate in the annual battle which is reenacted here.
As such I'm very familiar with the site's paths and its accessibility 'issues', which I don't think are that much of a problem unless you decide to see them thus. It's a battlefield. They aren't all flat like you see in films. This one, very notably, involves a hill. Consequently expect some up and down bits and dress/equip yourself and your children accordingly ;)
It's an extremely atmospheric site and I've been fortunate to experience it in many weather conditions at all times of the night and day. Visiting Harold's gravestone in mist by moonlight was one of the outstanding experiences I've had there, and it's always very poignant to see just who sends bouquets and rosemary garlands in remembrance every year.
People also say they've seen things here. Things they can't to this day explain. I never have, but I'm inclined to believe the tale told by someone who woke up to sounds of battle and horses thundering past his tent...he thought it was a bit early for people to be up and about, but there are those keen types who like to practice for the later reenactment...and of course, when he looked out, there was nothing there. Spooky or what.
As such I'm very familiar with the site's paths and its accessibility 'issues', which I don't think are that much of a problem unless you decide to see them thus. It's a battlefield. They aren't all flat like you see in films. This one, very notably, involves a hill. Consequently expect some up and down bits and dress/equip yourself and your children accordingly ;)
It's an extremely atmospheric site and I've been fortunate to experience it in many weather conditions at all times of the night and day. Visiting Harold's gravestone in mist by moonlight was one of the outstanding experiences I've had there, and it's always very poignant to see just who sends bouquets and rosemary garlands in remembrance every year.
People also say they've seen things here. Things they can't to this day explain. I never have, but I'm inclined to believe the tale told by someone who woke up to sounds of battle and horses thundering past his tent...he thought it was a bit early for people to be up and about, but there are those keen types who like to practice for the later reenactment...and of course, when he looked out, there was nothing there. Spooky or what.
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johndeed
14 reviews
14 reviews
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First time in years, had a very nice day and the grounds are lovely worth a visit
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I thought the listening devices around the tour were a great idea, it really helped to engage the children especially 9 year old boy….not so the 11 year old he found it boring half way round. I think more detail could have been added in the grounds. weapon replicas and statues in scale. As an adult and not necessarily a great lover of history it was very interesting to hear and wander.Shame about the cost though.and the additional parking fees.
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1066 is probably the one historic date that everyone knows, and after a lifetime of hearing about the Battle of Hastings it was great to see the place where it happened.
Battle offers a great day out. You can walk round the hillside where the fighting happened - there’s nothing to see but the English Heritage audioguide brings it to life, with three different characters (a Saxon, a Norman and Edith Swan-neck) telling the story of the day’s events from their point of view.
Back at the top of the hill you can look round the Abbey itself, and see the place where it is believed Harold received his fatal wound.
In Battle town - not part of the English Heritage site - is a small museum with a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry with English translation and commentary. For me this was the highlight of the day.
Highly recommended.
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dmj1962, 20 November 2008:
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Great buildings, great history, but the ground is a bit uneven and you have to walk quite a way, so maybe not one if you have small children
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