Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Bayeux Tapestry Exhibition

25 February 2026 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Helena Dollimore Labour (Co-op) Hastings and Rye

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Helena Dollimore raised concerns about bayeux tapestry exhibition in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The Bayeux tapestry will return to the UK from September 2026 through July 2027.
  • Priority booking for schools in Hastings and Battle area will be ensured.
  • Free access for underprivileged schoolchildren will be provided.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Helena Dollimore Labour (Co-op) Hastings and Rye

The Bayeux tapestry's return to the UK after nearly a millennium is a triumph for Britain, especially for Hastings, Rye, and 1066 country where it originated. The MP urges the British Museum to make the exhibition accessible to local schoolchildren from these areas by guaranteeing places and supporting travel costs. She highlights the importance of ensuring that young people feel pride in their history through this national moment. Additionally, she advocates for improved transport links to facilitate visits to 1066 country.

Other contributors (1)
  • Kieran Mullan Lab Bexhill and Battle

    The hon. Member's speech was excellent in detailing the benefits of the Bayeux tapestry exhibit, emphasising that local schoolchildren should have affordable access to it and encouraging visits to 1066 country alongside viewing the exhibition.

Government Response

Ian Murray

The Minister congratulates Helena Dollimore on her speech and highlights the importance of the Bayeux tapestry's return, which is a once-in-a-millennium opportunity. He acknowledges efforts from French authorities to make this loan possible. The British Museum will display the tapestry from September 2026 through July 2027. Priority booking for schools in Hastings and Battle area will be ensured due to their significance related to events of 1066. Additionally, there will be free access for under-16s with a paying adult. The museum is developing an ambitious national programme involving over 100 sites, including English Heritage and the British Library, to raise awareness about the tapestry's importance across the UK. He encourages the British Museum to strengthen its collaboration with 1066 country tourism board and invites all interested colleagues to a briefing on Wednesday, April 22nd.

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