French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a loan agreement to bring the Bayeux Tapestry to the British Museum, marking its first return to the UK in over 900 years. The 70-metre tapestry depicts the 1066 Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings across 58 scenes, giving insight into medieval life. While the tapestry is usually housed in Normandy, it will be displayed in a major exhibition from September 2026 to July 2027. Alongside this, Anglo-Saxon treasures from the UK will be showcased in Normandy, enhancing cultural exchange between the two nations.
The 70-metre-long Bayeux Tapestry depicts the 1066 Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings, when William the Conqueror took the English throne. Across 58 scenes, featuring 626 characters and 202 horses, it gives the account of one of the most significant events in British history.
As part of the loan agreement with France, a number of Anglo-Saxon treasures from the UK, including pieces from Sutton Hoo ship burial and the Lewis chess pieces, will be displayed in museums in Normandy.
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