Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum

One of the most important cultural artefacts in the world will be displayed at the Museum from September 2026. More details to follow.

In exchange, treasures from the British Museum that represent all four nations of the UK – including Sutton Hoo and the Lewis chess pieces – will travel to museums in Normandy, France.

The agreement, which will provide immense cultural and educational benefits for citizens in both countries, is due to be announced by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, and will be signed by Director of the British Museum Nicholas Cullinan.

The 70-metre Bayeux Tapestry depicts the 1066 Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings, and is due to go on display in the Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery at the British Museum in the autumn of 2026. The Museum will draw on its own collection as well as other loans in order to tell a rich story about this period of history.

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. The British Museum’s status as the UK’s most visited attraction, as well as one of the most popular in the world – attracting 6.5 million visitors in 2024 – means it is well placed to ensure that the widest possible audience will have the opportunity to enjoy it.