How to Book Bayeux Tapestry Tickets at the British Museum
If you were hoping to take your class to see the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum, you were probably disappointed to see the first release of school tickets sell out so quickly. The good news is that there are still steps you can take to give your school the best chance of securing tickets when the next release becomes available.
The exhibition – taking place in London while the Bayeux Museum in Normandy undergoes a huge renovation – has generated extraordinary demand, with thousands of visitors eager to see one of the world's most important medieval artefacts during its first return to Britain in almost 1,000 years. While the initial allocation sold out rapidly, it doesn't necessarily mean your class has missed its chance altogether. The British Museum has confirmed that further school booking information will be released later in 2026, with additional ticket releases planned for 2027.
If you're teaching Norman Britain, the Battle of Hastings or the events of 1066 in the next academic year, here's how to give your school the best chance of securing tickets.
1. Sign Up to the British Museum Schools Newsletter
This is the single most important step. Rather than relying on social media or hoping to spot an announcement, registering for the British Museum's dedicated schools e-newsletter means you'll be among the first to hear when bookings open, alongside updates about workshops, learning resources and any additional ticket releases.
2. Be Ready for the Next Ticket Release
The first public allocation (for tickets September – December 2026) demonstrated just how popular this exhibition is, selling out in just over 24 hours with the online queue reaching 80,000 people at its peak.
Bookings for January to July 2027 are opening later, with the next general sales confirmed for October (for January-March visits), and the final tickets (for April-July) released in January. School bookings will follow separately, so it's worth having a preferred visit date – and a backup or two – ready in advance.
When bookings do open, you'll want to:
- Have your preferred dates prepared (please note school bookings are reserved for Mondays 10am-1pm, and Tuesdays 12-3pm)
- Be flexible if possible.
- Book as soon as booking opens.
- Ensure whoever is responsible for educational visits is aware of the release date, and signed up to the newsletter.
3. Start Planning Your Visit Now
Even without tickets secured, there's plenty you can organise in advance.
Think about:
- Your transport arrangements.
- Risk assessments.
- Curriculum objectives.
- Other Norman collections and excursions you'd like to explore while in London.
The British Museum offers a wealth of medieval and British history collections that complement studies of the Norman Conquest, making the day worthwhile even beyond the headline exhibition.
Why visit the Bayeux Tapestry?
For many pupils, the Bayeux Tapestry is already a familiar notion from classroom textbooks and tales of the Battle of Hastings.
Stretching almost 70 metres, the embroidery tells the story leading up to the Norman invasion of England in 1066 and the battle itself. But beyond the famous scenes of Harold, William and the battlefield, it also provides an extraordinary glimpse into medieval life, depicting castles, ships, armour, clothing, animals and everyday life in remarkable detail.
For Key Stage 3 History, it's one of the most significant surviving primary sources for understanding Norman Britain.
Can't Get Tickets? Your Students Can Still Experience Norman History
While the exhibition is an exciting opportunity for schools, it's not the only way to explore this medieval story with your students. At Equity School Travel, we offer curriculum-linked history tours that immerse students in the events, places and legacy of 1066:
History School Trips to Normandy
Our History School Trips to Normandy allow students to explore the landscape where William the Conqueror built his power before crossing the Channel.
Visits include the city of Bayeux itself, where students can experience the place that has safeguarded the tapestry for centuries, and William the Conqueror’s castle in Falaise, alongside other key Norman heritage sites that deepen understanding of medieval Europe and the conquest of England.
History School Trips to London
Our History School Trips to London also include dedicated learning focused on Norman Britain.
Students can investigate how William reshaped England after 1066 through visits to iconic sites such as the Tower of London, exploring Norman architecture, royal power, conquest and the lasting impact of the Norman dynasty on Britain's history.
Whether you're reinforcing classroom learning or introducing Norman Britain at Key Stage 3, London provides an outstanding extension of the curriculum.
Don't Miss the Next Opportunity
The first release of Bayeux Tapestry tickets may have sold out quickly, but more opportunities are still to come.
By registering for the British Museum schools newsletter now and keeping an eye on future booking announcements, you'll give your students the best possible chance of experiencing this once-in-a-generation exhibition.
And if you're looking to take Norman history beyond the museum walls, our curriculum-led history trips to Normandy and London offer memorable experiences for students to enjoy as they delve into this fascinating subject.
Interested in booking a school trip around Norman history and 1066? Get in touch with our team on 01273 648248, or alternatively fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.
