The winning ways of battle: there's a lot more to explore in rural East Sussex than 1066 and all that

Hugo Brown likes to explore the antique shops and independent cafes of Battle He visits the ruins of the 11th century abbey, built by William the Conqueror READ MORE: Inside the happiest town...in the land the happiest in the world

By Hugo Brown for the Daily Mail

Posted: 08:43 BST, 28 Apr 2023 | Updated: 08:43 BST, 28 April 2023

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Daniel Defoe, the author of Robinson Crusoe, wrote over 300 books while being a merchant, journalist, pamphleteer, social critic and spy: a brilliant career.

But the early 18th century writer got one thing wrong when, in 1722, he described the battle in East Sussex as "remarkable for few now". six miles from the coast - but he underestimated the weight of history.

Because today, 957 years after the battle of 'Hastings, its bloody origins in 1066 lie at the heart of its relative prosperity. admiring its antique shops, independent cafes and regional producers, from bakers to brewers.

Strolling through the ruins of the 11th century abbey, built by William the Conqueror and now cared for by English Heritage, is essential. The Visitor Center offers 15-minute access to...