Talks, News and Events

The Winchelsea
1066
History Festival
October 2026
Festival Events
The Site of the Norman Landing and the Subsequent Battle Two eminent local historical researchers, Stephen Gray MSc and Jonathan Starkey MA, who have both published numerous historical articles, will debate the differing claims. Where did William actually land, and where was the battle actually fought? Saturday 10th October at The New Hall at 2 for 2.30pm
What Was the English Landscape Like When the Normans Invaded? Dr Michael Bintley (University of Southampton) explores England’s landscape in 1066 using archaeology, literature and the Bayeux Tapestry. Saturday 24th October at the New Hall at 10.30 for 11am
The Great Debate What if Harold Godwinson, Harald Hardrada and William of Normandy could each make their case to become King of England? Presented by FOAM in the style of a modern televised election debate, complete with audience questions, Norman refreshments and a vote to decide the winner. Saturday 24th October at the Lower Court Hall
A Tale Told: A Bard’s View of the Bayeux Tapestry Kathleen Tyson presents a fascinating new interpretation of the Bayeux Tapestry, suggesting it may originally have been intended to accompany the performance of a travelling bard. Saturday 31st October at the New Hall at 10.30 for 11am
The Bayeux Tapestry Through the Ages: Embroidering, Restoration and Conservation Dr Alexandra Makin, a member of the Scientific Committee for Research for the Bayeux Tapestry, explores how the tapestry was created, preserved and studied today. Saturday 31st October at the New Hall at 2 for 2.30pm

ICKLESHAM ROMAN ROAD
Between Sunday 12 and Friday 17 July 2026, during a WAAHS organised archaeological dig in Icklesham, a third section of the Roman Road was uncovered. Among the finds were two Roman horseshoes found embedded within the road and a shard of pottery in the side ditch. The dig was led by Cameron Ross (BAG) (MHL).




Outing to Dover
Saturday 13 June 2026

ICKLESHAM ROMAN ROAD EXCAVATIONS by Dr Cameron Ross
Click here to read the report

WAAHS AGM AND TALKS: Saturday 28th February 2026
Click here for details

FORTHCOMING TALKS: NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 2025
Click here for details of talks on 29th November and 6th December

3D MODELS OF NT BUILDINGS
Click the links below to see 3D models of four National Trust buildings in Winchelsea, linked here with the permission of the Trust
Rookery Barn
St John’s Gable
Salutation Cellar
Blackfriars Barn

CULVER ARCHAEOLOGICAL PROJECT
Click here for a report of the talk given by Blake Galloway on 18th October 2025

INTERPRETING THE TOWN SEAL
Andrew Scott offers an interpretation of the Winchelsea Town Seal. The original 13th Century matrices are still kept by the Corporation. Andrew gives particular attention to the highly detailed counter seal shown here.
Click here to read the PDF: Interpreting the Winchelsea Town Seal. January 2024

