Seeking ideas for a weekend day out in the next few weeks? You could always head down to East Sussex, where the annual re-enactment of the Battle Of Hastings takes place over the weekend of October 9-10. Mark Hughes-Morgan explains what you can expect.
WHY DID KING HAROLD LOSE?
He hasn’t yet: it doesn’t happen until the weekend of October 9-10.
WHAT ARE YOU ON ABOUT?
The small Sussex town of Battle stages a monster re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings every year (on the weekend closest to the actual date, October 14). Hundreds of Saxon and Norman warriors fight to the death – or a dramatic approximation of it.
I’M GUESSING HAROLD LOSES?
Yet to get on the board. Some 400 enthusiasts with 100 horses will arrive on site soon, dressed in authentic garb. They’ll camp out and bring around 100 horses.
WILL THEY PILLAGE?
No, but you’ll see battle displays, falconry, archery (and have a go), plus feats of horsemanship.
WILL I KNOW WHAT’S WHAT?
Gen up in the visitor centre with interactive displays and a film by Dr David Starkey.
WHAT ABOUT BATTLE?
Pretty, medieval and Georgian bits. The imposing gatehouse looks down on the lovely High Street.
CAN I JOIN THE BATTLE?
Only if you’re a child. A children’s battle takes place several times on both days (foam swords etc).
DON’T MISS
The Harold Stone, laid at the site of the original altar of the old abbey – reputedly where Harold expired.
DETAILS
01424 775705, English Heritage.
Source: Daily Mail
