Urgent Request for British Museum to Display Bayeux Tapestry in ‘1066 Region’ | Bayeux Tapestry

The Member of Parliament for Hastings and Rye has urged the British Museum to bring the Bayeux tapestry to “1066 country” as part of its upcoming exhibition, emphasizing the significance for the local area. After over 900 years away from the UK, the 70-meter-long tapestry depicting the 1066 Norman invasion is set to return to the British Museum starting next September. Labour MP Helena Dollimore argues that it would be “a great shame” for the region historically known as 1066 country to be excluded from such a “national moment” and called for the tapestry to be displayed locally. Dollimore’s letter to the British Museum, co-signed by historian Dan Snow, advocates for practical arrangements for a potential display in the south coast region historically associated with the tapestry. She also emphasized the need for ensuring free or discounted tickets for local children and promoting the area to visitors of the exhibition. The MP points out the area’s struggles with social mobility and highlights opportunities for tourism and cultural development. Sarah Broadbent, chair of the 1066 Country tourism organization, expressed optimism about the loan’s potential to generate interest in the region’s history and attractions.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/14/call-for-british-museum-to-take-bayeux-tapestry-to-1066-country