A trip to Battle Abby with the Instax mini Evo

Welcome to Battle Abbey, a site that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Norman Conquest of England. Its very name evokes the thunderous clash of armies in the Battle of Hastings in 1066, where William the Conqueror faced off against King Harold II. This pivotal event in English history gave rise to the abbey, built by William as a penance for the bloodshed.

With its magnificent blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, Battle Abbey's ruins serve as an architectural marvel and a portal to a bygone era. Despite the partial destruction it endured during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, the abbey's grandeur still resonates through its remains.

Over the years, Battle Abbey has witnessed various roles, from an active Benedictine monastery to a country house for nobility. Today, it stands as a remarkable attraction, offering not only a glimpse into medieval monastic life but also enchanting gardens and interactive exhibitions. The annual reenactments of the Battle of Hastings bring history to life, immersing visitors in the echoes of the past.

We as a family have been here a couple of times having treated ourselves to english Heritage passes for the year, I have been meaning to go along with my pinhole camera to capture some of the beauty of this place, especially the stunning architecture. This time I had my Fuji Instax mini Evo with me, a Hybrid instax digital camera. 

I love some of the features on the Instax mini evo, especially to option for B&W without the need to having to use the Instax black and white instax film.

I do intend to do a better write up on this camera along with a comparison to the Fuji instax mini 90 Neo Classic.

However, for now here are some of the digital images from our afternoon out at the Abbey.

Other side of the main gate

The pillars underneath the monks dormitory.

This area is truly awe-inspiring, with the towering pillars that now support the remnants of the monks' dormitory, dating back to the 13th century. As you explore, you'll encounter a series of rooms, each with its own unique dimensions and heights. Witnessing the architectural marvel that stands before you, it's truly remarkable to see the amazing craftsmanship and engineering achievements of the past.

Black and white mode

Normal colour

Exterior of The monks dormitory

Around the actual battle ground of the battle of Hastings, several wooden carved figures stand as reminders to the past.

Black and white mode

Retro colour mode

Looking towards the Abbey

As you walk across these historic grounds, the weight of history descends upon them. Guided by stories of the battle, every step reveals a chilling narrative etched in the very earth. Amongst the rolling hills, the remnants of conflict come to life in vivid descriptions—broken weaponry, shattered shields, and the lifeless bodies of fallen soldiers, all strewn across the landscape like mournful monuments to the past. The fields themselves, once serene, now bear witness to the grim aftermath, their very soil drenched in blood, the life force of brave men who fought and fell here. It's a stark reminder of the harrowing price paid for change, an emotional echo of the violence and sacrifice that unfolded on this hallowed ground.

A giant arrow in the battle grounds

Steps leading to the tower above the main gate

View over Battle

Towards Battle abbey school

Back down the gate tower stairs

Battle Abbey coat of arms

Battle Abbey is an exquisite destination, steeped in history, and it's a place I'm eager to return to. I've been envisioning revisiting it with my pinhole camera or one of my medium format film cameras. However, for a day out like this, the Fuji Instax Evo emerges as a splendid companion. While it may not match the prowess of most smartphones in the digital realm, it offers a charming simplicity that's an absolute joy to work with. It's the perfect tool to capture those small, treasured moments, like the afternoons spent exploring this remarkable place.