Pevensey
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Located 5 minutes from Eastbourne is the interesting, historical little village of Pevensey.
For a small village, Pevensey is rich in English history, dating back through the centuries from Roman and Norman times and through the periods of the Spanish Armada. The fort of its major landmark, the castle, was built by the Romans during the 3rd century. During this time, the castle was surrounded by sea. Over time the sea has gradually moved out, revealing the land now known as Pevensey Bay. It was at Pevensey Bay that William the Conqueror landed ashore with his invasion fleet in September 1066.
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In 1066, the Roman fortress at Pevensey was granted to Robert of Mortain by his half brother William the Conqueror. The Normans occupied the fort and De Mortain used the existing fortress as the base for a new castle. His inner bailey can be seen at the eastern end of the outer bailey. Since the end of the 16th century, the castle and fort has been left largely to fall into ruin, though part of it was re-used for defensive purposes during the time of the Spanish Armada. It was also used as a German aircraft lookout point during World War II.
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These days, the castle is maintained by English Heritage. Although time has not been kind to the Castle, it does still make for an interesting place to visit. There is an exhibition of artefacts and an audio programme covering the history of the castle inside the inner bailey.
Pevensey High Street, to the east of the castle, contains some small local shops as well as the Pevensey Courthouse Museum. It has some pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional local food.
Pevensey is recommended for an afternoon visit to learn about our historical past.
