The Bayeux Tapestry, believed to have been made in Canterbury, Kent, at the request of Bishop Odo, William the Conqueror’s half-brother to embellish his new Bayeux cathedral in 1077, is due to return to the UK in autumn 2026, according to an announcement by the British Museum.
The 70-metre Bayeux Tapestry depicts the 1066 Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings.
This will be the first time that the tapestry has been shown in the UK since it was made, almost 1,000 years ago – and is expected to be one of our most popular exhibitions ever.
Bayeux Tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry is a 70-metre-long masterpiece telling the story of the conquest of England in 1066 by William, Duke of Normandy. The embroidery in wool thread on linen cloth was created in the UK and dates back to the 11th century.
Through 58 scenes, 626 characters and 202 horses, the tapestry gives an account of the medieval period in Normandy and England like no other. It provides information about civil and military architecture, armour and seafaring in the Viking tradition, as well as precious details of everyday life.
The Bayeux Museum, where the tapestry has been displayed since 1983, will close for a two-year renovation from 1 September 2025. It is this closure for renovation that allows the tapestry to visit the British Museum.
British Museum Announcement | More from the Bayeux Museum