Victorian Bayeux Tapestry casts to go on display at Rievaulx

The hand-painted plaster casts will go on display at Rievaulx Abbey in March 2027 as part of the British Museum’s initiative, Bayeux Around Britain, supported by WorldQuant.

This exhibition, titled Bayeux Around Britain, aims to bring the story of the Bayeux Tapestry to audiences across the UK.

Iona Keen, head of learning and interpretation at English Heritage, said: “English Heritage is delighted to be taking part in this initiative.

“Rievaulx Abbey is a spectacular venue and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to the museum in the spring.

“As a charity, we are proud to care for a large number of properties right across the country that are associated with this period of history.

“From the 1066 battlefield itself to Rievaulx Abbey, we hope that people will be inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry arriving on these shores to explore their local heritage.”

The casts, created in the early 19th century, are rarely displayed and will be exhibited at Rievaulx Abbey’s museum from March to May 2027.

The North Yorkshire site is the only northern venue included in the tour.

Dr Nicholas Cullinan OBE, director of the British Museum, said: “We have been working with colleagues around the UK to deliver a programme of loans and activity that will extend far beyond London to make this a truly national moment.

“This is perhaps the most ambitious and inclusive programme we or in fact any museum in the UK has done, bringing together over 60 partners across the UK and Channel Islands.

“I’m delighted that this 19th-century cast can travel far and wide and be accessible to thousands of people around the UK.”

The Bayeux Tapestry is a celebrated medieval work of art that depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England in 1066.

In 1816, artist Charles Alfred Stothard was commissioned by the Society of Antiquaries to produce the first complete colour drawings of the tapestry.

He also created plaster casts by applying wax directly to the embroidery—a technique that would not be considered today due to conservation concerns.

Three of Stothard’s casts were acquired by the British Museum in 1878.

The casts depict key scenes and figures from the tapestry, including Harold Godwinson, who ruled England in 1066, and William of Normandy, who defeated Harold at the Battle of Hastings.

Scene 46 shows William receiving news of Harold’s whereabouts, scene 30 depicts Harold’s coronation, and scene 48 shows William in full armour with a spear.

The touring exhibition is designed to broaden public engagement with the Bayeux Tapestry and its historical significance.

It also aims to encourage visitors to explore related heritage sites and deepen their understanding of this pivotal moment in history.

Rievaulx Abbey, managed by English Heritage, is one of many historic sites linked to the Norman conquest and its legacy.

The display will offer visitors a rare opportunity to view the Victorian casts and connect with the story of 1066.

More information about the exhibition and related events can be found on the British Museum website.