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Battle Abbey

in Kent and East Sussex Stand on the very spot where the iconic Battle of
Hastings was fought in 1066 and discover more about
this crucial moment in England’s history.
Roam the battlefield landscape with an audio guide
and discover the impressive carved oak sculpture trail
depicting soldiers from the battle. Stand on the spot
where Harold is believed to have fallen as you explore
the atmospheric ruins of the famous abbey built by
William the Conqueror.
Discover more about the battle as you watch an
evocative film and visit the hands-on introductory
exhibition. Then stand on the roof of the abbey
gatehouse and get a stunning 360-degree view of the
surrounding landscape where fierce fighting once raged.
LAMB HOUSE SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDEN
Tucked away on a cobbled Historic, poetic, iconic; a refuge dedicated to beauty. Vita Sackville-West and Inside the gatehouse, see artefacts from the abbey’s
street in the heart of the Harold Nicolson fell in love with Sissinghurst Castle and created a world monastic life and find out more about its important role
bustling town of Rye, be our renowned garden. in the newly emerging England after 1066.
guest at the home of high society. Vita Sackville-West, the poet and writer, began transforming Sissinghurst
Built in 1722 by the Lamb family, Castle in the 1930s with her diplomat and author husband, Harold Nicolson. Allow the stories of battle to unfold and experience
the house became the Mayoral Harold’s architectural planning of the garden rooms, and the colourful, abundant this truly unique day out for yourself. For more
home of Rye and was the former planting in the gardens by Vita, reflect the romance and intimacy of her poems
home of authors Henry James and writings. information visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/battle
and E. F. Benson. Sissinghurst Castle Garden was the backdrop for a diverse history; from the
Explore the history of the astonishing time as a prison in the 1700s, to being a home to the women’s land
Georgian red-brick house or take army. It was also a family home to some fascinating people who lived here or
refuge in the beautiful walled garden. came to stay. We've undertaken research to find out more about Vita and
nationaltrust.org.uk/lamb-house Harold’s original design and we are taking steps to recapture the vision that
01797 222909 they had. Keep an eye out for changes we are making around the garden this
year. Don’t miss the vast panoramic views from the top of the Tower, the
working farm and the 450-acre wider estate. We’ve plenty of events and
exhibitions for you to enjoy too.
nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle-garden • 01580 710700
SMALLHYTHE PLACE
Nestled in the Kentish countryside, this English country cottage and Barn Theatre
is a simple haven that once belonged to renowned Victorian actress Dame Ellen
Terry, which exudes both her artistic spirit and its bygone history of the sea.
Steeped in history and framed by a sea of roses in summer, this 16th
century cottage is now a museum of Ellen’s life, housing hundreds of diverse
artefacts from her personal and professional collections, including jewellery,
hand-written letters, scripts and her famous costumes.
The garden is a tranquil retreat and romantic backdrop to this unique
theatrical property. Stroll through the grounds and discover the traditional
rose garden, orchard, nuttery and ponds, home to an abundance of wildlife.
The charming thatched 17th century Barn sits amidst this sea of ever-
changing colour. It was transformed into a working theatre by Ellen’s daughter,
Edith Craig, in 1929 and to this day continues to host a diverse programme of
plays, exhibitions, opera and comedy nights throughout the season.
Step inside and discover Smallhythe’s secrets - a truly unique and
extensive collection bursting with 18th and 19th century theatrical history.
Open 4 March - 1 November (Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm).
nationaltrust.org.uk/smallhythe-place • 01580 762334
Smallhythe photos © National Trust Images /James Dobson, Sissinghurst photos © National Trust Images / Katie Shaw

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