The Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum: dates, tickets and advice

For the first time since its creation nearly a thousand years ago, the The Bayeux Tapestry crosses the Channel for an exhibition in England. British Museum It will be on display in London from September 10, 2026 to July 11, 2027, thanks to a historic loan from France. This is therefore a rare opportunity to see this medieval work, and an excellent excuse for a trip to London.

Here is some practical information about the exhibition, ticket availability, and our suggestions for planning your visit. Conditions may change, so always check the museum's official website before booking.

The Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum: the essentials

• Dates: from September 10, 2026 to July 11, 2027.
• Location: Room 30, the Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery, at the British Museum.
• Opening hours: from 10am to 6pm Sunday to Wednesday, and until 9pm Thursday to Saturday.
• Tickets: the exhibition requires payment and must be booked in advance.
• Formalities: to come from France, a passport and a British ETA are also required.

Reserve the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum

Demand is indeed very high. According to the museum, there are already no tickets left for the period from September 10 to December 31, 2026. Tickets for the period from January 1 to March 31, 2027 will then go on sale on October 21, 2026, and subsequent tickets at the beginning of 2027.

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If you have a specific date in mind, make your reservation as soon as sales open. The museum also offers a newsletter subscription service to receive sales announcements. Full details are available on the exhibition's official page on the museum's website. British Museum.

An exceptional work

The Bayeux Tapestry, approximately 70 meters long, is actually an embroidery. It recounts, among other things, the events that led to the Battle of Hastings and the Norman conquest of England in 1066.

According to the British Museum, a Norman commissioned it from English embroiderers, who were inspired by designs in Canterbury manuscripts. It thus offers a precious glimpse into life in the 11th century: castles, ships, weapons, clothing, and meals. It is also listed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register. To put these events into context, read our article on William the Conqueror.

Enjoy the British Museum during your visit

Founded in 1753, the British Museum is also one of the most visited museums in the world. Access to the permanent collections is free, while major exhibitions require an admission fee.

After the tapestry, take the time to see some of the major pieces: the Rosetta Stone, the sculptures from the Parthenon, or the Egyptian collections. Since the museum is vast, it's best to focus on a few rooms rather than trying to see everything.

Organize a trip to London around the exhibition

Two to four days allows you to combine the exhibition with exploring London. Furthermore, the British Museum is located in the Bloomsbury district, a short walk from Covent Garden and Soho.

For the rest of your stay, alternate between the major tourist attractions and more secluded neighborhoods:

• Westminster, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey; ;
• the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and Borough Market; ;
• a musical comedy in the West End; ;
• the lesser-known neighborhoods, which we present in our London's off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.

If you have more time, extend your trip to the English countryside. Canterbury, where the tapestry's designs are said to have originated, boasts, for example, one of the the most beautiful English cathedrals.

Visiting the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum from France

London is easily accessible from France by train or plane. However, the entry requirements have changed: a valid passport and an ETA (the UK's electronic travel authorization) are required. Each traveler must have their own, including children. Full details are available in our guide. formalities for the United Kingdom.

Are you travelling with your family? Also check out our guide to family trip to England.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the Bayeux Tapestry remain in the British Museum?

Until July 11, 2027. The exhibition actually opened on September 10, 2026, in room 30 of the museum.

Are there any tickets left for the tapestry at the British Museum?

Tickets are sold out until December 31, 2026. Tickets for January to March 2027 go on sale on October 21, 2026, and subsequent tickets go on sale in early 2027.

Is the exhibition free?

No. The British Museum's permanent collections are free, but the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition is ticketed and must be booked in advance.

What is the length of the Bayeux Tapestry?

Approximately 70 meters. It is actually an embroidery, which tells the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066.

What documents are needed to go to London?

A valid passport and a British ETA for each traveler, including children. An identity card is not sufficient.

Discover London with Brightside Travel

At Brightside Travel, we organize tailor-made trips to London and England. We advise you on choosing your dates, select well-located accommodations, and create an itinerary adapted to your preferences.

To go further, take inspiration from our road trip from London to Cornwall, or discover our tailor-made holidays in England.

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