Bayeux tapestry to be insured for £800m for British Museum exhibition

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Nadeem BadshahDecember 27, 2025 at 10:05 PM

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The Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman invasion of England in 1066, will be insured for approximately £800 million by the UK Treasury when it is displayed at the British Museum in London from September 2026 to July 2027. This marks the first time in over 900 years that the 70-meter embroidered cloth will be exhibited in the UK. The insurance will be provided under the Government Indemnity Scheme, saving UK museums money compared to commercial insurance. The loan is part of a cultural exchange agreement between the UK and France, during which the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in Normandy will be closed for renovation. The British Museum will loan artifacts, including the Sutton Hoo collection, to France in return. Concerns have been raised in France regarding potential damage to the tapestry during transportation.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Keir Starmer 50% Bishop Odo of Bayeux 50% Emmanuel Macron 50% Harold Godwinson 80% William the Conqueror ×280% Bayeux tapestry ×9100% British Museum ×4100%

Keywords

bayeux tapestry 100% british museum 80% government indemnity scheme 70% insurance 70% art exhibition 60% loan agreement 60% norman invasion 50% battle of hastings 50% cultural objects 50%