The Battle of Hastings & the Bayeux Tapestry

5days from

£999^*per person

Overview

Travel back to 1066 on this exciting tour, featuring the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the Bayeux Tapestry on British soil as it leaves Normandy for the first time in nearly a thousand years. On loan for the highly anticipated exhibition at the British Museum, this remarkable artefact offers a true glimpse into the Norman conquest of England, with scenes brought to life in intricate detail. We also discover the very spots chronicled in the tapestry, including the ancient battlefield of the Battle of Hastings and Battle Abbey, where William the Conqueror secured his victory and altered the course of English history thereafter. Visits to Bodiam Castle, Hever Castle and Penshurst Place continue to paint the picture of medieval England on this captivating exploration of Kent and East Sussex.

Itinerary

Check in to the Donnington Manor Hotel, Sevenoaks in the afternoon. Car parking – complimentary Nearest train station – Dunton Green (1 mile) or Sevenoaks (2.5 miles) Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
An exciting morning awaits as we head to the British Library to experience the remarkable Bayeux Tapestry Exhibition, bringing to life one of Europe’s most celebrated historical narratives. On loan from Bayeux in France, this extraordinary 230-foot-long embroidery dates from the 11th century and depicts the events of 1064 to 1066, beginning with Edward the Confessor and culminating in the Battle of Hastings. It's a rare opportunity to come face to face with one of the defining events in Britain's story! Later this afternoon, we enjoy entrance to the Tower of London, the oldest building in London, where we have the chance to see the dazzling Crown Jewels. Offering a glimpse into thousands of years of history, this former royal residence has also housed a famous selection of prisoners, such as the young Elizabeth I (prior to her coronation) as well as multiple wives and associates of Henry VIII. Explore the Royal Armouries collection in the White Tower, enjoy the views from the fortress walls, discover tales of imprisonment in the Bloody Tower, peek into royal life at the medieval palace and more.
Step back in time with a visit to Battle Abbey and the historic battlefield of the Battle of Hastings, the dramatic events of which are famously depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry. Here, in 1066, William the Conqueror secured his victory and forever altered the course of English history. Founded to commemorate this triumph, the abbey stands on the very ground where the battle is believed to have taken place. We explore the evocative ruins and imagine the vivid scenes of the iconic tapestry coming to life, bringing the clash between Norman and Anglo-Saxon forces into sharp focus. Afterwards, we visit the enchanting hilltop town of Rye, once a medieval stronghold and smugglers’ haven, now a delightful mix of cobbled lanes, hidden passageways and centuries-old architecture. Wander through Mermaid Street, lined with picturesque half-timbered houses and perhaps visit the Ypres Tower or the charming independent shops and tearooms for a bite to eat at your leisure. Another highlight today is Bodiam Castle, one of Britain’s most picturesque and romantic ancient fortifications. This archetypal 14th-century moated castle with a ruined interior gives us a glimpse of medieval splendour and boasts an original wooden portcullis, spiral staircases, tower rooms and battlements.
We visit the magnificent Hever Castle, the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn. Dating back to the late 13th century, this double-moated castle is home to various historic artefacts, including Tudor portraits and furniture, as well as two prayer books inscribed by Anne Boleyn. To revive its historical significance, the once-abandoned castle was lavishly restored by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor in the early 20th century. We enjoy a private tour of the castle's magnificent interior and of its grand exterior, comprising 125 acres of award-winning gardens, including a formal Italian Garden, the Tudor Garden and the English Rose Garden. There are also secret grottoes to discover along with the famous water maze. Our last visit is to Penshurst Place, a medieval manor house surrounded by stunning formal walled gardens and ancient parkland. Previously used as a hunting lodge by Henry VIII, it has been owned by the Sidney family since 1552 and is still a much-loved family home. Still displaying many of its original medieval and Tudor features, enjoy discovering the magnificent Great Hall and State Rooms on our guided tour which extends into the pretty gardens, a fine example of formal English landscaping, featuring over 11 acres of colourful walled gardens. Highlights include the Italian Garden with its symmetrical design and vibrant flower beds, the Union Flag Garden formed with roses and lavender and the variety of ancient trees, manicured lawns and fragrant borders that change with the seasons. Lunch is also included during our time here.
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.

What's Included

Holiday Highlights

Walk in the footsteps of William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings
See the extraordinary Bayeux Tapestry and its vivid story of 1066
Explore the historic Battle Abbey and battlefield
Discover the dramatic events that shaped England's history
Immerse yourself in the fascinating story of the Norman Conquest

Our Price Includes

Four nights' four-star half-board accommodation at the Donnington Manor, Sevenoaks (JG4 rating)
Porterage
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel and any additional meals or refreshments as listed in the itinerary
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Entrances to all excursions & guided tours as listed in the itinerary
Services of a tour manager
Car parking – complimentary

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Dates and Prices

Accommodation

Donnington Manor Hotel, Sevenoaks -

★★★★

Nestled in the Kent countryside close to Sevenoaks, the Donnington Manor Hotel is full of character and dates back to the 15th century. It offers a lovely restaurant, set beneath medieval wooden beams, an elegant bar and lounge, a fitness suite and guestrooms with free Wi-Fi, Smart TV with Freeview, tea and coffee-making facilities, a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.

Other Information

Car parking – complimentary

Nearest train station – Dunton Green (1 mile) or Sevenoaks (2.5 miles)

Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.

Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability.

Holiday code

JG469

Holiday provided by Just Go Holidays

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