With the Bayeux Tapestry being loaned to the British Museum in London later this year, from September 2026 to July 2027, there’s never been a better time to explore the real landscapes of one of the most famous stories in English history.
The 70-metre Bayeux Tapestry was made almost 1000 years ago and depicts the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, culminating in the Battle of Hastings, where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold Godwinson in Sussex to claim the English throne.
Follow the story of the Bayeux Tapestry by visiting the real-life locations woven into the fabric of English history, and walk in the footsteps of kings and conquerors in 1066 Country, the heart of Norman England in Sussex.
Day One: Conquer Castles and Coastlines
Follow in the footsteps of William the Conqueror along the historic coastline where the Norman Conquest began in Sussex.
The Bayeux Tapestry shows William the Conqueror's fleet landing at Pevensey, near Eastbourne, in September 1066, marking the start of the Norman Conquest of England.
Begin your first day at the same location and explore Pevensey Castle, where William the Conqueror built temporary defences when he landed, making use of its strategic location facing the Normandy coast.
From here, head 12 miles east towards Hastings, just as the Normans did 960 years ago. Wander through the Old Town and climb up to the ruins of Hastings Castle, the first castle to be built in England after William's invasion, which has sweeping sea views and retells the 1066 story.
1066 Country Walk
The 31-mile 1066 Country Walk is a route through the countryside that witnessed the Norman Conquest, with sculptures inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry along the way. Starting at Pevensey Castle, it takes in Herstmonceux Castle, the historic 1066 Battle Abbey and Battlefield, medieval Winchelsea, and finishes in historic Rye.
Day Two: Heading into Battle
Visit the momentous location of the Battle of Hastings, which changed the course of English history in 1066.
Six miles outside of Hastings, the town of Battle, which derives its name from the infamous conflict which changed the course of English history on 14 October 1066, is the site of the Battle of Hastings.
Now under the custodianship of English Heritage, 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield is a moving and powerful place to visit.
Walk the battlefield where the Norman and Anglo-Saxon armies clashed; explore the atmospheric ruins of Battle Abbey, built by William the Conqueror on the spot where King Harold died (famously depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry); dig deeper into the past in the interactive exhibition; and head to the gatehouse roof for stunning views over the battlefield.
Every autumn, around the anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, a battlefield reenactment dramatically relives this famous day of history.
After your visit, take time to explore Battle town, a charming market town filled with historic buildings, independent shops and cosy cafés. Make sure to visit St Mary the Virgin Church, which is home to a smaller three-metre Bayeux-style tapestry, offering a wonderful local interpretation of the Norman Conquest – a perfect dupe for those inspired by the British Museum exhibition.
