East Sussex Travel Guide - Abbeys and Monasteries

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.
Battle, East Sussex, England, TN33 0AD

Attraction Type: Abbey
Location: in Battle at the south end of the High Street
Website: Battle Abbey
Phone: 01424 775 705
English Heritage
Location map
OS Grid TQ749 157
Photo Credit: David Ross and Britain Express
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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. more...
Lamberhurst, East Sussex, England, TN3 8DE

Attraction Type: Abbey
Location: 5 m E Tunbridge Wells, East Sussex, off B2169
Website: Bayham Abbey
Phone: 01892 890 381
English Heritage
Location map
OS Grid TQ6767036380
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A rare fortified monastery founded by the Augustinan order in 1229. The site was moated and a gate tower added in the late 13th or early 14th century, probably in anticipation of a French attack. There is a reconstructed Physic Garden in the grounds, and a reconstruction of a cloister garden.
Upper Dicker, Near Hailsham, East Sussex, England, BN27 3QS

Attraction Type: Abbey
Location: 2 m W of Hailsham
Website: Michelham Priory
Email: adminmich@sussexpast.co.uk
Phone: 01323 844224
Historic Houses Association
Location map
OS Grid TQ557 094
Photo Credit: Vernon Dunhill, licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Licence
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