TOWNSPOTLIGHT
BATTLE cont .
Things to Do
Battle Abbey Now owned by English Heritage , the remains of Battle Abbey are open to the public . Take a wander through the evocative ruins , and stand on the very spot where King Harold is said to have breathed his last breath – infamously dying from an arrow shot through his eye ( or so the legend tells us ). As well as the abbey itself , there is a stunning walled garden to enjoy . This is a recreation of the Duchess of Cleveland ’ s garden , and it is where the abbey ’ s honey bees thrive . There are often themed days and events here , and when all the excitement and information becomes a little too much , there is a café to stop and relax in too .
The Battle Museum of Local History There is perhaps no other place in the UK that has quite so much local history relating to it – or rather to one hugely significant historical event . The Battle Museum of Local History does concentrate mainly on the Battle of Hastings , although there are some other exhibitions too , and includes the only weapon ever to have been excavated on the battle site . This ancient axe head was even featured on television ’ s Time Team !
St Mary ’ s Church St Mary ’ s Church has been at the centre of religious life in Battle since it was built in around AD 1115 . This is where you can spot the rare wall painting of St Margaret of Antioch , which dates back to the 1300s . Once , this church was famed for its stunning interior , and although this is now somewhat faded , it is still possible to see much of its former glory .
Almonry Gardens These lovely gardens and the house that goes with them were some of the very first structures to be built in Battle – after the abbey was completed in 1094 , the almonry was built in that same year . Despite its name , this house never was an actual almonry ( the place where alms were given out ), although it ’ s likely it did have links to the church .
Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard Just a little way down the road in Robertsbridge is Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard . This is England ’ s oldest vineyard , having been established in 1979 , and visitors are encouraged to take the self-guided trail through the vineyards to understand exactly how the wine here is made . And of course , wine , beer , cider and juice tastings are a regular occurrence .
Corner Shop Gallery The Corner Shop Gallery is where local artists can showcase their pieces and their crafts . Anything and everything is welcome here , from paintings and ceramics to glass and sculpture . The lovely thing about the Corner House Gallery is that nothing is out of budget ; everything is priced so reasonably that everyone can buy some local art and enjoy it .
Dining Out
Nobles Restaurant Nobles Restaurant is a contemporary restaurant that manages to remain in harmony with the ancient buildings that surround it . This recently refurbished restaurant is comfortable and relaxing , and the food is seasonal and local – just the way everyone likes it . Dishes on the menu include Wealdway Ash goats cheese and sunblush tomato risotto ; local roast Romney Marsh lamb saddle with asparagus , puy lentils , dauphinoise potato and rosemary gravy ; and apricot bread-and-butter pudding .
The Netherfield Arms The Netherfield Arms dates back to 1725 , and the lovely building is a pleasure to step into . There is a beautiful inglenook fireplace and the entire pub oozes with charm and atmosphere . Luckily , there is an excuse to linger longer here , as food is served along with the wide range of drinks . The menu has a number of tempting offerings including tempura-battered vegetables served on a bed of leaves and drizzled with a sweet chilli sauce ; the Sussex smokie - smoked haddock in a mushroom , wholegrain mustard , white wine and cheese sauce with a crunchy crisp top with melted cheese ; and raspberry and white chocolate meringue roulade served with fresh cream and a raspberry coulis .
Pilgrims Rest Pilgrims Rest is one of the oldest buildings in Battle , and is at least 800 years old . It is a pleasure and a privilege to enjoy a meal in these memorable surroundings . Food includes ‘ scrumpet ’ - two toasted crumpets with melted cheese , crispy bacon and salad ; and ‘ the hungry monk ’ ploughmans - hand-raised local pork pie of the day , mature cheddar , ham , pickled onion , gherkins , apple , celery , salad , pickle , bread and butter .
Annual Events
BBK 10K // Sep The BBK 10K is a road race that takes runners through the historic town of Battle . It is suitable for both serious and fun runners , and winners receive trophies . Everyone who takes part receives a medal , and many people run in this event for charity .
The Big Green Cardigan Festival // Sep This is a music festival for music lovers – there is no theme , and acts performing every type of genre are welcome to attend . This is an ‘ old school ’ festival according to the organisers who simply want people to be able to listen to good music in a relaxed environment .
Battle Reenactment // Oct Every year the Battle of Hastings is played out as it would have been in 1066 – and every year the event is a huge draw .
Top Spot
Of all the many interesting places in Battle , the one that stands out as being the most thought provoking and evocative has to be the battlefield itself . This is where thousands of men fought for their country , and where thousands of men , including the king of England , died . It is eerie and beautiful all at the same time .
Did You Know ? There was once an establishment called the Swan Inn that could be found on the high street in Battle . Unfortunately , a stray German bomb destroyed it during World War II .
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