Overview
- The tapestry, which arrived early on Friday, July 10, 2026, was received at the British Museum and remains sealed in its double caisson to acclimatise under tight security and conservation control.
- Museum teams say the work will be shown flat in a purpose‑built gallery at the British Museum from 10 September 2026 to 11 July 2027 following a period of crate acclimatisation.
- Organisers used two full‑scale test transfers and a bespoke double caisson designed to hold 20°C and 50% relative humidity and to cut transport vibrations by about 96 percent to limit movement‑related damage.
- The UK financed the move, accepted operational costs and provided an indemnity reported at about £800 million to cover major damage, while high demand quickly exhausted initial ticket releases.
- Conservation experts stress the risk posed by the tapestry’s existing condition—about 30 unstabilised tears and nearly 10,000 holes—and French and British teams plan post‑exhibition restoration and an upgraded Bayeux display when the piece returns in 2027.