A RE-ENACTMENT of the Battle of Hastings has taken place on the very spot of the historic conflict.

After a hiatus in 2020, the event near Battle Abbey , run by English Heritage, returned ahead of the anniversary of the Battle of Hastings.

Around 500 performers recreated the conflict between King Harold and Duke William fought in 1066 at Battle Abbey in Battle.

 
Battle of Hastings re-enactment
Battle of Hastings re-enactment

Although blades were blunter than they were in 1066, high drama was still on display as re-enactors clashed on the very spot where King Harold did battle with William the Conqueror nearly 1,000 years ago.

The event was unable to take place in 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions, but was able to make a return this year – 955 years after the battle.

Battle of Hastings re-enactment

Battle of Hastings re-enactment
Battle of Hastings re-enactment

Prior to the event, English Heritage events manager Rebecca Hornby said: “The Battle of Hastings has always been one of the biggest events in English Heritage’s calendar with hundreds of reenactors bringing this incredible battle and moment in time to life.

“It is also a hugely iconic event in Sussex, and among Sussex locals as well as those who travel up and down the country every year to be part of it.”

Battle of Hastings re-enactment

Battle of Hastings re-enactment
Battle of Hastings re-enactment

In the recreated battle, archers let loose their arrows and mounted cavalry charged across the green fields.

One actor playing the unfortunate King Harold – without an arrow in his eye – was seen yelling to his troops in an effort to inspire them to a different result than befell the real monarch in the 11th century.

Battle of Hastings re-enactment

Battle of Hastings re-enactment
Battle of Hastings re-enactment

The real Battle of Hastings saw thousands of troops clash as Harold and William vied for control of the English throne.

The power struggle followed the death of the childless King Edward the Confessor in January 1066.

Battle of Hastings re-enactment