One of the world’s most famous medieval artworks is generating major public interest as the Bayeux Tapestry prepares to go on display at the British Museum in London.

The nearly 1,000-year-old embroidered artwork has returned to England for the first time in centuries as part of a major cultural loan from France. The tapestry depicts events surrounding the Norman Conquest and the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Interest has been exceptionally high. The British Museum director said more than 80,000 people were at one point in the virtual queue for tickets, highlighting the extraordinary demand for the historic exhibition.

The artwork will be displayed in a continuous 70-metre presentation, a major reason the British Museum was selected to host the exhibition. The museum says the tapestry is expected to remain on display until summer 2027.

Beyond its artistic importance, the exhibition represents a significant example of UK-France cultural cooperation, bringing together two countries around an object connected to the shared history of England and Normandy.