More than 13,000 spectators watched a sell-out weekend reenactment of the Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey in Sussex, where 500 reenactors refought the 1066 clash between King Harold and Duke William. The event, staged ahead of the 960th anniversary on Wednesday, October 14, drew crowds despite the outcome being historically certain.
Living history at Battle Abbey
Around 500 reenactors, many on horseback, portrayed Normans and Saxons, while another 300 enthusiasts acted as camp followers, local villagers and craftspeople. English Heritage's annual reenactment offered visitors a glimpse into life inside the Saxon and Norman camps, including weapons, armour, clothes, food and other 11th-century skills.
Attractions included performances of Saxon and Norman music, falconry displays, have-a-go archery, sword school and combat training. The grand finale on Saturday and Sunday was a tightly-scripted reenactment of the battle in which William the Conqueror emerged victorious to seize the English throne.
Bayeux Tapestry boosts interest
The arrival of the Bayeux Tapestry for a blockbuster show at the British Museum this summer – the embroidery's first time in England in nearly 1,000 years – heightened interest in the Norman invasion, according to organisers.
Roy Porter, Senior Properties Curator at English Heritage, said: “Our annual Battle of Hastings reenactment is always one of the highlights of English Heritage's autumn season, and this year – its landmark 60th edition – has been one of the biggest yet, in no small part thanks to the interest generated by the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition at the British Museum.”
Porter added: “More than 800 reenactors from across the country, and even parts of Europe, descended on the very battlefield where William defeated Harold to recreate the dramatic clash that changed the course of English history. The action-packed weekend is hugely popular each year – not only for the spectacle of the fight but also for the fantastic family friendly activities and the chance to step inside authentic Norman and Saxon camps to discover what daily life was like for the soldiers and their families. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the people behind the conflict.”
