Bayeux Tapestry

Possibly the most famous ‘comic strip’ in the world, the Bayeux Tapestry is all action.  Depicting the Norman invasion of England by William the Conqueror, magnificent wooden ships can be seen heading for Hastings; soldiers clad in chain mail spur on their mighty steeds, armed with lances.  Horses can be seen tumbling into the mud and bodies litter the ground and so the story moves on to the victory, William’s coronation and the feasting that followed.

Known  across the world as a tapestry, it is in fact a 230-foot embroidery on unbleached linen panels using coloured  wools in rich ochres, reds, browns and greens.  It is believed to have been commissioned by the half-brother of William the Conqueror, Odo of Conteville, Bishop of Bayeux and completed by English craftsmen and women, possibly associated with one of the city churches in Canterbury.

This superb social and historic record of the Battle of Hastings is now housed in a specially designed museum.  Open most of the year, audio guides are available.

Plan your visit to see the Bayeux Tapestry

• Bayeux Hotels - view and book a wide choice of accommodation convenient for the Bayeux Tapestry