Tickets to see the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum are going on general sale again within days. Bookings for the initial September-December tranche completely sold out in July, with 100,000 going in the first day.
The rush for tickets generated more than £2.5million in revenue for the British Museum, making it the biggest ticket day for any exhibition in the museum’s history. But the exhibition has faced backlash from visitors since it opened last month. Concerns have been raised about the long wait-time, in spite of allotted time slots, and overcrowding in the exhibition space. Hundreds of ticket holders were also turned away after a private event forced the museum to close early. The museum has since issued an apology and has made changes to help tackle the issues, including extending opening hours. The next tranche of tickets, for January to March, go on general sale later in October.
What is the Bayeux Tapestry?
The Bayeux Tapestry was likely commissioned by a Norman patron and was crafted by English embroiderers in the 11th century. It depicts 58 scenes leading up to the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.
Written in Latin and Old English, it is witnessed by several people depicted in the tapestry, including King Edward, Queen Edith, Archbishop Stigand, Earl Harold and Harold’s brother Gyrth, both of whom are shown in the tapestry being killed during the battle. The exhibition at the British Museum also includes digital displays and other treasures from the Norman Conquest.
When will tickets go back on sale?
Tickets to see the embroidery went back on sale on October 6 for members of the British Museum. Non-members will be able to purchase tickets from October 21. Prices range from £25 to £33 depending on the date and time of the visit. Dedicated times will also be set aside for school visits and under-16s will be able to visit for free when accompanied by an adult.
How can I get a ticket?
There is no cheat code to securing tickets to see the Bayeux Tapestry, but joining the museum as a member provides advance booking options. Memberships start at £82/year. When booking for the second tranche of tickets, you should start queuing for online tickets as soon as they become available at 10am.
Online queues are expected to reach tens of thousands of people, with some reportedly travelling from all around the world to catch a glimpse of the embroidery. If you don’t manage to get a ticket this time, there will be a third and final release in January 2027 for viewings between April and July.
There is another option for those keen to see the tapestry. Some hotels in the capital are offering ticket and stay packages. One Aldwych has a corporate partnership with the British museum, meaning those who book a one-night stay at the hotel can also upgrade their package to include a viewing of the tapestry, a cocktail, and a full English breakfast. Be warned - stays to the hotel can cost as much as £1,000 a night - significantly higher than the ticket price.
What are the changes being made by the British Museum?
The British Museum has faced complaints from customers since it opened its Bayeux Tapestry exhibition last month. Visitors have claimed their experiences were marred by overcrowding, queuing for hours, and being rushed through the exhibit by museum staff.
Some ticketholders were even denied entry when the museum closed early for an event attended by the Chancellor.
The museum has responded with a series of changes to improve customer experience. This will include longer opening times, an additional audio guide, and more signage. The museum will also put in additional seating for those who require breaks.
A British Museum spokesperson said: "The response to the Bayeux Tapestry has been extraordinary, and we are delighted by the excitement and interest it has generated.
"We also know that some visitors have faced longer queues than we would have wanted, so we are introducing a series of measures - including an audio guide, clearer signage, additional seating and longer opening hours - to make the experience smoother and give more people the time they need to enjoy the Tapestry."
