Tuesday 15 September, 11-12 p.m.: Private Tour of the Reading Bayeux Tapestry with Pat Frost of the Textile Society

Reading Museum, Blagrave St, Reading RG1 1QH

Reading Museum has provided award-winning opportunities for learning, inspiration and enjoyment since 1883. From their earliest days they have collected archaeology, art, natural history, and ethnography, and objects relating to Reading. Today they focus on collecting linked with Reading, its people and environment, and proudly celebrate the town and its fascinating history.

Pat Frost has almost 30 years’ experience of working in the Fashion and Textile Department of an international auction house, with special responsibility for European, Islamic, Indian and Asian textiles and Fashion sales. Now Pat is an independent consultant in the field.

Event Description
A private viewing of the 19th century copy of the Bayeux Tapestry, stitched by Victorian embroiderers from the Leek School of Embroidery.

The Bayeux Tapestry is one of the world’s most famous pieces of medieval art. It is 70 metres long, and chronicles the legendary tale of the Norman conquest of England, when William the Conqueror invaded and defeated King Harold Godwinson. In the late 19th century, an extremely ambitious project was undertaken by a group of Victorian embroiderers from the Leek School of Embroidery to recreate the Bayeux Tapestry in full, painstakingly reproducing every single detail, stitch-by-stitch, so that the Tapestry's timeless story could be enjoyed by the people of Britain. The original work is due to arrive in the UK in the autumn and will be on view at the British Museum. In the interim, the Textile Society has arranged for a private guided tour on 22 May 2026 at Reading Museum to see the 19th century version. Each section is signed and dated by the Leek School embroiderers and together makes for a tour de force of English 19th century needlework. The Reading tapestry had a rich and varied life before it came to Reading - join the tour to learn about its history and marvel at the power of embroidery.

Meet at the museum reception at 11 a.m.

Event Cancellation Policy
All bookings are non-refundable. However, if you let us know that you are unable to attend an event you have booked at least two weeks before the event, we will open up your place. If we find another participant, you will be offered a credit note.

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