Abbeys and Monasteries in East Sussex

Battle Abbey

Battle Abbey
Battle, East Sussex, English Heritage, Tel. 01424 73792
X marks the spot, or in this case, the abbey marks the spot, where the Battle of Hastings was fought in 1066. William the Conqueror had the abbey built in 1070, with the high altar built where Harold was killed. A stone plaque now marks the spot. The best preserved part of the abbey is the impressive 14th century Great Gatehouse. There are displays and an interactive exhibit on the history of the site.

Bayham Abbey
5 m E Tunbridge Wells, East Sussex, off B2169
Described as "The Fountains of the South", not for its importance in medieval times, but for its delightful setting. A Premonstratian house founded in 1211. Late 13th century additions provide wonderful decorative sculpture of the highest quality.

Michelham Priory
2 m E Hailsham, East Sussex, off A22
A rare fortified monastery, the site was moated and a gate tower added in the late 13th century, probably in anticipation of a French attack. There is a reconstructed Physic Garden in the grounds.