BRITISH MUSEUM BANS PHOTOGRAPHY OF BAYEUX TAPESTRY EXHIBITION

The British Museum has banned photography of the Bayeux Tapestry during its sold-out London exhibition, reversing an earlier decision after long queues built up as visitors lingered to take pictures. Visitors are now moved through the display in groups under a one-way system, with a full visit taking around 40 minutes. A museum spokesperson said there had been "enormous interest in viewing the tapestry" and that photography was being restricted "while people are moving along the length of the tapestry" to give visitors the best possible experience. It was not clear when the ban took effect.

The nearly 1,000-year-old embroidery depicts the Norman conquest of England and the 1066 Battle of Hastings, featuring 627 figures and more than 700 animals. Reports put its length at 68 or 70 metres (230ft). It is embroidered rather than woven, and is widely believed to have been made in England before being taken to Bayeux in Normandy. It is believed to be the tapestry's first showing outside France, and was transported around 350 miles (560km) to London in a climate-controlled crate under police escort.

The loan followed years of diplomatic planning between Britain and France, formalised at a Franco-British summit in 2025, with the British Museum funding the move and the UK government providing insurance. Reports differ on how long the tapestry will remain in London, with one saying the loan is set to run until "next July" and another stating it will stay until July 2027. Tickets are sold out until 31 December, with a second batch due for release on 21 October. The loan has been described as a symbol of renewed cooperation between Britain and France following tensions over Brexit.