The British Museum is introducing new measures to manage large crowds visiting the Bayeux Tapestry, after unprecedented demand created lengthy queues and some visitors were turned away.

The medieval artefact returned to the UK for the first time in almost 1,000 years when it went on display at the London museum on 10 September. The exhibition has attracted exceptionally high visitor interest, with tickets selling rapidly.

From Monday, the museum is introducing an audio guide, clearer exhibition signage and additional seating to improve the visitor experience. Opening hours will also be extended to help spread visitors throughout the day.

The museum previously stopped visitors from taking photographs of the 70-metre-long tapestry after people stopping to take pictures contributed to delays around the exhibition.

Some ticket-holders who were unable to enter because of queues have been offered refunds and priority booking for alternative dates.

Demand for the exhibition has been particularly strong. The British Museum said its initial ticket release generated more than £2.4 million in sales during the first 24 hours, the biggest single day of ticket sales in the museum's history.

The Bayeux Tapestry will remain at the British Museum until 11 July 2027, before returning to France when the Bayeux Tapestry Museum completes its renovation.