The Bayeux Tapestry

The 70-metre Bayeux Tapestry depicts the 1066 Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings. The Museum will draw on its own collection as well as other loans 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's well placed to ensure that the widest possible audience will have the opportunity to enjoy it.

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