To the north of the town the country side is of a typically English rural type, fresh and green, with charming villages truly rustic in character. In this direction is to be found the town of Battle with its many survivals of former centuries, the chief among them being the famous Battle Abbey, built on the spot where Harold fell when the Normans conquered the Saxons on Senlac Hill. Herstmonceux and Bodiam Castles are two of the best preserved castles in the Kingdom. The former, built in 1440, is the finest brick-built castle in Britain, whilst Bodiam as a moated fortress has no surviving peers. Both are within easy reach of Hastings to the northward.
The villages of Pevensey and Westham, which lie approximately eight miles west of St. Leonards, are well worth a visit. The Pevensey and Westham Churches are splendidly preserved and full of absorbing interest to the antiquarian. Pevensey's great castle is a surviving portion of the old Roman fortress of Anderida.
How to Get to Hastings and St. Leonards.
There is now an excellent service of trains between Hastings and St. Leonards and the Metropolis. Many City men have taken advantage thereof to live by the sea ; moreover the season ticket rates are exceedingly reasonable. The town is served by two Companies, viz., the South Eastern and Chatham and the London, Brighton and South Coast Railways. The London termini are Charing Cross, Victoria, Cannon Street and London Bridge. It now takes approximately 90 minutes to journey "from gloom to sunshine."
Where to Make Enquiries.
There is, on the White Rock Promenade, an Information Bureau, where visitors may obtain guidance and information on all matters connected with their welfare and enjoyment, and in close proximity to the railway station an Enquiry Office for the benefit of those seeking apartments or lodgings.
