Make your way to Pevensey, the bay where William, Duke of Normandy, landed with his invasion fleet of 700 ships on September 28th, 1066. William used the 4th century Roman fort of Anderida (now Pevensey Castle) as a secure stronghold before making the march to Hastings. The castle is managed by English Heritage and is worth a visti at the start of your journey on the 1066 trail. Pevensey is easily reached from London Victoria train station, with the rail journey taking around 1 hr 40 mins. Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel or inn close to the sea front in Pevensey. (Note that accommodation here is limited, if so, you may stay in Eastbourne which is just one additional stop on the train).

Meals:  B

Begin your walk on the 1066 trail at Pevensey Castle. The castle itself has a long history, with its imposing walls incorporating the remains of a Roman fort dating from the 3rd century. The route heads north across the Pevensey Levels, an extensive area of low-lying wetland characterised by open grazing marshes, drainage channels and broad skies. This is predominantly flat walking, following footpaths across fields and crossing a series of small bridges over the waterways that criss-cross the Levels. After several miles across the marshes, the route climbs gently onto higher and firmer ground around Church Farm. The landscape gradually changes, with the open wetlands giving way to the hedgerows, farmland and pockets of woodland of the Sussex countryside. Continue towards Herstmonceux Castle, a striking 15th-century red-brick moated castle set within extensive grounds. Nearby are the distinctive domes of the Observatory Science Centre, formerly part of the Royal Greenwich Observatory. Accommodation: Overnight in a comfortable B&B once the home of the local blacksmith.

Meals:  B

Leaving Herstmonceux, the route continues through stretches of woodland and the rolling Sussex countryside towards Battle. Along the way, pass Tent Hill, traditionally associated with one of the armies that gathered in the area before the Battle of Hastings. Arriving in Battle brings you to one of the most significant historic sites in England. Battle Abbey stands on the traditional site of the Battle of Hastings, where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold Godwinson on 14 October 1066. Following his victory, William ordered an abbey to be built on the battlefield as an act of penance for the bloodshed. According to tradition, its high altar was positioned on the spot where King Harold fell. Although much of the medieval abbey is now in ruins, substantial remains survive, including the impressive gatehouse and parts of the church, cloister and monastic buildings. Accommodation: Overnight in a traditional inn in Battle.

Meals:  B

Walk through ancient woodland and farmland before reaching the village of Westfield. Continue to Icklesham, home to the Grade I-listed All Saints Church, which retains a number of Norman features. The village also has another traditional country pub, the Queen’s Head, as well as Hogg Hill Windmill, which has been used as a recording studio by Paul McCartney. On the approach to Winchelsea, pass 17th-century Wickham Manor, once owned by William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, before entering the historic town through one of its medieval gates. Winchelsea has a fascinating history. The present town was established by King Edward I after the original settlement, once an important medieval port, was lost to the sea in the 13th century. At its heart is St Thomas the Martyr Church, where comedian and writer Spike Milligan is buried. His gravestone famously carries the epitaph “I told you I was ill” although, following restrictions on the wording, it was inscribed in Irish Gaelic, making it easy to miss. You may wish to visit Winchelsea Court Hall Museum or discover another side of the town’s history underground. At least 50 medieval cellars survive beneath Winchelsea, originally used by merchants to store wine and other goods. Guided cellar tours can be booked locally. Accommodation: A friendly B&B in the town.

Meals:  B

As today’s walk is short, spend some time exploring Winchelsea before setting out on the final section of the 1066 Country Walk. You could also visit Charles Palmer Vineyards for an 11am vineyard tour (Wednesday–Saturday, advance booking required) or sample Sussex wines at the Cellar Door Lounge. Continue via Cadborough Cliff to Rye, bringing your journey through 1066 Country to an end. While much of Rye’s visible history post-dates the Norman Conquest, its medieval streets and former importance as a coastal port provide a fitting finale to a walk that began at William the Conqueror’s landing place at Pevensey. Take time to explore St Mary’s Church, the Gun Garden and Rye’s historic streets before celebrating the end of the walk with a locally brewed ale at the Mermaid Inn, one of the town’s best-known historic buildings. Accommodation: Overnight at a characterful local inn in Rye.

Meals:  B

Depart after breakfast. Rye has its own railway station, with connections to London taking just over an hour, making onward travel straightforward. Alternatively, extend your stay in East Sussex and spend some time exploring the distinctive landscapes and historic villages of Romney Marsh.

Meals:  B