Bayeux Tapestry set to go on display at British Museum

Published on 05/06/2026 - 14:57 GMT+2

The Bayeux Tapestry is preparing to leave France. This medieval masterpiece, a 70-metre-long embroidery depicting the Norman conquest of England, will be exhibited at the British Museum in London from September 2026 to July 2027, to mark the 1,000th anniversary of William the Conqueror.

French Culture Minister Catherine Pégard hailed "a political, cultural and symbolic gesture": "In a world that is fragmenting, that sometimes gives in to the temptation of turning in on itself, France remains true to itself and opts for cultural outreach. We choose to assert that the great democracies and ancient nations of Europe are destined to learn from and enrich one another", she said.

According to tradition, it was Matilda of Flanders, wife of King William the Conqueror, who had the tapestry made during his military campaign.

The fibres of this thousand-year-old work are extremely fragile. Any change in temperature or humidity levels can cause it to tear. A special case has been designed to ensure the work can be transported safely and to limit vibrations during the journey.

Other medieval works will also be temporarily exchanged between France and the United Kingdom, including a chess set and grave goods discovered at Sutton Hoo.