In a historic cultural move, France has agreed to send the Bayeux Tapestry to London, England, for the first time in nearly a thousand years. The rare loan was confirmed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to the United Kingdom and is being hailed as a major moment in international cultural cooperation.
The tapestry, measuring 70 meters in length, is a detailed embroidery that illustrates the Norman conquest of England in 1066. It will go on display at the British Museum in London from September 2026 to July 2027, giving visitors a unique chance to view one of the world’s most significant historical artworks.
In return, Britain will lend key national treasures to France, including ancient artifacts from the Sutton Hoo burial site and the iconic Lewis Chessmen, continuing a growing exchange between the two nations’ museums. The deal also celebrates the 1,000th anniversary of William the Conqueror’s birth and coincides with the start of the 2027 Tour de France, which will begin in the UK.
The Bayeux Tapestry’s long-awaited return to England
The Bayeux Tapestry has not been displayed in England since it was created in the 11th century, although it is widely believed to have been made by English hands. Many historians think it was commissioned by Bishop Odo of Bayeux, William the Conqueror’s half-brother.
Comprising 58 scenes stitched in vivid thread, the tapestry tells the story of the events leading up to the Battle of Hastings, including the dramatic clash between King Harold and Duke William of Normandy. Despite being nearly 1,000 years old, the piece is well preserved, with much of its detail and color intact. Experts have long praised its survival, with one former conservator describing it as “almost miraculous.”
We are lending Britain an iconic jewel of our shared history: the Bayeux Tapestry.
This is the first time this national treasure will leave French soil. It marks an unprecedented cultural partnership between our two countries — a powerful symbol of our Entente amicale. pic.twitter.com/5SMFfQrDG0
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 9, 2025
Until now, the tapestry has been housed in Normandy, most recently at the Bayeux Museum. Its display at the British Museum’s Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery will be one of the most high-profile cultural events of the decade and is expected to attract large crowds.
Symbol of shared history and diplomatic ties
Museum officials and cultural leaders have emphasized the importance of this exchange beyond its historical value. British Museum director Nicholas Cullinan called the tapestry “one of the most important cultural artifacts in the world,” saying its arrival in London reflects the close relationship between Britain and France.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy echoed the sentiment, calling the agreement “a celebration of shared heritage.” She added that the UK is honored to welcome back one of the most iconic pieces of medieval art ever produced.
President Macron described the return of the tapestry as a “powerful gesture,” noting that it will retrace the steps of the very soldiers whose story it was created to tell.
Meanwhile, the Sutton Hoo artifacts—unearthed in 1939 in Suffolk—will be temporarily sent to Normandy. These items, including a ship burial and royal possessions, offer rare insight into Anglo-Saxon life before the Norman invasion and have been vital to understanding England’s early history.
This cultural exchange highlights the long-standing ties between the two countries and signals a commitment to preserving and sharing history across borders.