To provide you with the best experience, cookies are used on this site. Find out more here.

Allow cookies
  1. Win 2 tickets to the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition and a trip to Battle. Sign up to enter.
  2. A Norman in embroidered tapestry style sketches Pevensey Castle from a fence. Unexpectedly 1066.
Cover image for Visit 1066 Country's attraction brochure 2023

1066 Country of Origin

Featured

  1. Destinations
    Visit the towns and villages of Battle, Bexhill, Bodiam, Camber, Hastings, Herstmonceux, Pevensey, Rye and Winchelsea.
  2. Things to do in 1066 Country
    Ancient settlements meet modern lifestyles, sparking a vibrant culture with so much to see and do.
  3. What’s on
    There's loads happening in 1066 Country – from theatre to music to children's activities. Find out what's on here.
  4. The Crown pub interior with visitor reading a menu beside the bar in Hastings.
    The freshest fish, the best vineyards in England, and a wonderful array of healthy produce – eat with us.
  5. Downash Wood Treehouses luxury treehouse accommodation nestled among woodland in East Sussex.
    Come and explore our fantastic and enchanting accommodation options in 1066 Country.
  6. A Norman in embroidered tapestry style at Battle. Year of the Normans.
    England's Norman heartland is preparing for the European Year of the Normans 2027. Discover events, attractions and more across 1066 Country.
  1. 30

    Miles of coast

    From Camber Sands to Normans Bay, explore the variety of this beautiful coastline – its golden sands, pebble beaches and soaring sandstone cliffs.

  2. 1

    Historic Battle

    1066 Country is home to the battle that changed England forever. Explore William the Conqueror's landing place, walk the battlefield and uncover the legacy of the Norman Conquest.

  3. 22

    Festivals

    Or maybe more! Kicking off with Rye Bay Scallop Week and Hastings Fat Tuesday in February, it's a year-round programme of fun and festivities.

  4. 13

    Museums

    From Shipwrecks and Fishing to Steam pumps and the invention of television – there's a museum for every occasion.

  5. 6

    Castles

    From the ruins of Hastings and Pevensey to the storybook romance of Bodiam and Herstmonceux, each of our castles tells part of our story.

Waiting to be explored

1066 Country is home to some of Sussex’s finest coast and countryside including the famous historic site on which the Battle of Hastings was fought. Use the map below to find out about more about the towns and villages of 1066 Country, as well as what's on, where to stay, things to do, and places to eat, drink and shop.

Where can I find?...

  1. Accommodation
  2. Events
  3. Attractions
  4. Eating out
  5. Shopping
  6. Tourist info
  7. Towns & villages
View Map

Things To Do

Passionate about the countryside, sea, history and culture — then you’ll find much to please you in 1066 Country. This part of the south east is one of the most beautiful with its uplifting scenery, tranquil majestic villages, clean beaches and historic castles.

  1. Castles
    Six famous castles: soaring battlements, majestic moats, palatial piles and crumbling ruins.
  2. Family
    Adventure parks, water sports, castles and beaches – there's loads to do for children both young and old.
  3. Galleries
    Four fantastic galleries bring major national and international artists to 1066 Country, through exhibitions and permanent collections.
  4. Great Dixter House and Gardens with colourful borders and visitors exploring the historic grounds.
    Lily-covered lakes, beautiful borders, a tulip festival and a national pinetum. Garden fans, you're in for a treat.
  5. Bodiam Castle's moated medieval fortress surrounded by water and ancient woodland in East Sussex.
    Beyond the famous battlefield, 1066 Country is rich in history – from giant steam pumps to literary inspirations.
  6. Visitors exploring local history exhibits and collections at Hastings Museum and Art Gallery.
    To really get to know 1066 Country, a visit to its museums is a must. From shipwrecks to flowermaking, our history is here.
  7. Bedgebury National Pinetum with colourful autumn trees, walking trails and visitor facilities in Kent.
    Beaches, gardens and beautiful walks – there's so much to enjoy in the great outdoors.
  8. Visitors exploring Rye Harbour Nature Reserve by e-bike, enjoying views across the coastal landscape.
    Enjoy a spot of golf, glorious cycle routes, and plenty of adrenalin-pumping watersports.
  9. Things to do in 1066 Country
    Ancient settlements meet modern lifestyles, sparking a vibrant culture with so much to see and do.

What's On

Looking for something to do in 1066 Country? Just take a look at our Events Calendar. We’ve plenty to keep you entertained during your stay, from festivals to fireworks, music, exhibitions, theatre and guided walks – and plenty of family friendly and free events too.

  1. Promotional image for Edge: Where the Land Meets the Sea at Hastings Contemporary, showing a boat on marshland waters.
    Edge: Where the Land Meets the Sea is a major new exhibition exploring the fundamental connection between land and sea, and the vital role both play in sustaining life on our planet.
    1. 26 Sep 20263 Jan 2027
  2. Cast replica panel inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, showing medieval figures and decorative Norman artwork.
    Discover a rare glimpse into the story behind one of the world’s most famous works of medieval art at Bayeux Around Britain: Casting a Masterpiece, on display at Hastings Museum & Art Gallery.
    1. 10 Sep 20268 Nov 2026
  3. Overhead view of colourful dishes at Crafted, including tacos, grilled chicken, salad and golden empanadas.
    As part of Crafted’s newly launched The London Service, we’re bringing London’s best restaurants down to Sussex for a single night at a time.
    1. 20 Nov 2026
    2. 29 Jan 2027
    3. 26 Feb 2027
    4. 19 Mar 2027
  4. Christmas wreath on a rustic door at Merriments, promoting a festive wreath-making workshop in November.
    Led by Lauren an experienced florist and one of our very own team members, this relaxed three-hour workshop will guide you through creating your own Christmas wreath to take home and enjoy throughout…
    1. 27 Nov 2026
    2. 6 Dec 2026

Upcoming highlights

  1. Children watching Santa present a bright, glowing train labelled K&ESR
    Book for your truly magical Christmas adventure! We love Christmas at the Kent and East Sussex Railway and we have been welcoming families to meet Santa on our trains since 1974! There's nothing quite like the pleasure of a steam train ride knowing your child will meet Santa and receive a named gift, all without moving from the the comfort of your allocated seats. Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey! This year, step aboard a festive steam train and embark on a picturesque journey through the wintry countryside, all while meeting Santa – without ever leaving the comfort of your seat.
    1. 29 Nov 2026
    2. 5 Dec 2026
    3. 6 Dec 2026
    4. 12 Dec 2026
    5. 13 Dec 2026
    6. 19 Dec 2026
    7. 20 Dec 2026
    8. 23 Dec 2026
    9. 24 Dec 2026

Food & Drink

  1. Breweries
    Pale ales, IPAs, stouts and ciders – they're all made right here in 1066 Country.
  2. Cafés
    From cute olde worlde tea rooms to modern coffee shops specialising in vegan and gluten free goodies, we do…
  3. Delis and markets
    Pack yourself a picnic full of healthy, locally produced mouthwatering delicacies – and head outside to enjoy…
  4. Pubs
    Historic buildings, cosy fires, sunny gardens – and of course excellent beer and food.
  5. Restaurants
    Specialist seafood restaurants, delicious vegetarian dishes, heart-warming pasta and authentic world food.
  6. Vineyards in Sussex and Kent – Explore England’s Wine Country
    You're in wine country here, and it'd be almost rude not to sample an award-winning vino or two.

Stay

Hastings & 1066 Country is home to some of Sussex’s finest coast and countryside including the famous historic site on which the Battle of Hastings was fought. Whether you're looking for a hotel, B&B, self-catering property or nights spent camping under the stars, we've got something for you.

  1. Hotels in 1066 Country
    Country houses, smugglers' inns, spa treatments and views to die for. Let us put you up in style.
  2. Bed & breakfasts
    Experience the hospitality of 1066 Country in our beautiful B&Bs. Modern boutiques, historic farm houses and restored rectories await.
  3. Camping and Glamping
    Riverside camping, wild glamping, cute little shepherd's huts and gypsy caravans – so many options for sleeping out.
  4. Holiday parks
    With playgrounds, swimming pools and activities on site, these holiday parks are great for a family stay.
  5. Self catering
    Do you prefer to be independent and self-contained on holiday? Have one of these properties all to yourself.
  6. Dog-friendly accommodation
    Man's best friend can enjoy your holiday with you thanks to these dog-friendly accommodation options.
1066 Country of Origin Original by nature
Back to Top

My Planner

Nothing added yet! Explore the site to create your personal itinerary.

Don't Miss

  • Accommodation

  • Things to See & Do

  • What's On

  • Food & Drink

Accommodation Search

Type:
Area:
Location
Keyword:

Things to Do Search

Type:
Area:
Location
Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates
Type:
Area:
Location
Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:
Area:
Location
Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:
Area:
Location
Keyword: