Winter Lecture: Why are the Brits crazy about the Bayeux Tapestry?

Join us for the February Winter Lecture to explore the Bayeux Tapestry and question why the Brits are so crazy about this medieval masterpiece?

Bayeux-mania has taken Britain by storm with the loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the British Museum. Michael Lewis and Dave Musgrove will give an introduction to this wonder of the medieval world and attempt to answer why the embroidery fascinates British people so much. They will explore when, where and why it was made and highlight aspects of its cartoon-like story. They will also talk about its loan and presentation at the British Museum and provide fascinating insights into the press and public reaction known as Bayeux-mania.

Speaker

Michael Lewis is Curator, Bayeux Tapestry exhibition, at the British Museum. David Musgrove is Content Director of HistoryExtra magazine. Together they have written the best-selling book, The Story of the Bayeux Tapestry by Thames & Hudson (republished and updated 2026).

How to take part

Thanks to the generous sponsorship from the Friends of Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives.