The Ruins of Battle Abbey

The Ruins of Battle Abbey are significant remnants of a medieval abbey founded by William the Conqueror in 1087, located on the site of the Battle of Hastings. The main structures that remain date from the 13th century. These include the Dormitory, situated on the first floor with three vaulted rooms beneath, constructed from stone rubble and featuring lancet windows and buttresses. To the southwest is the Guest House, which contains eight barrel-vaulted chambers supported by buttresses on the south side, with additional rooms above. At the west end of the Guest House are two tall octagonal turrets built in the 16th century by Sir Anthony Browne, who was preparing a lodging for Princess Elizabeth, although she never visited. The high altar of the abbey church was placed at the location where King Harold fell during the battle. While there are few remains of the abbey church above ground, the foundations have been excavated, and the eastern end is marked out. The site is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.