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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