Battle re-enactment one of the ‘1000 Ultimate Sights’

The two-day event, which this year takes place on Saturday October 15 and Sunday 16, pulls in around 20,000 visitors and attracts re-enactors from far and wide.

Estelle Cable, from English Heritage, said: “We get visitors and re-enactors from all over the place.

“We had an email the other day from a re-enactor from New Zealand or Australia asking how they can get involved.”

Hundred of troops, including mounted knights on horseback, will authentically recreate the doomed tactics employed by an exhausted King Harold and his weary troops who had marched from Yorkshire to bravely face their enemy.

Fearsome hand-to-hand combat and the galloping hooves of charging horses will add to the atmosphere and terror of the bloody battle, which ended in defeat by William Duke of Normandy.

From 10am to 4pm each day, visitors can immerse themselves in every aspect of 11th century life as authentic period crafts are sold in a market and a living history encampment depicts the daily toil for those living on both sides of the Channel.

Other attractions will include a bird of prey display, have-a-go-archery sessions and a children’s fun mock Battle of Hastings skirmish.

Admission prices are £12 for adults, £10.80 for concessions, £7.20 for children, family ticket £31.20. Reductions for English Heritage members.

Tickets can be bought in advance from 0870 333 1183 or from Battle Abbey on the day.

For more information or to pre-book, call 0870 333 1181 or visit online at www.english-heritage.org.uk/events