English Heritage Releases Rediscovered 1966 Battle of Hastings Re-enactment Footage

English Heritage has unveiled rare color footage from the first re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings, which took place on October 14, 1966. This 12-minute film comes just before this year's event scheduled for October 10 and 11 at Battle Abbey in East Sussex. The 1966 event featured hundreds of students from Kent and Sussex universities, clad in burlap and imitation chainmail, brandishing wooden swords and shields to commemorate the battle's 900th anniversary. Participant Peter Sampson reminisces about recruitment efforts that included promises of beer and a coach trip, highlighting the rivalry between the universities. Filmed by Alan Wootton and his son Cliff, the footage was restored with English Heritage's assistance. The original battle in 1066 resulted in King Harold II's death and William the Conqueror's victory. The re-enactment attracted 30,000 spectators, many opposing William. English Heritage is looking for former participants to invite them as special guests this year. Site manager James Witcombe describes the film as a remarkable time capsule. The Bayeux Tapestry, illustrating the Norman Conquest, is currently on display at the British Museum until July 2027.