As the original Bayeux Tapestry proved to be quite difficult to book for our large group we have arranged for a visit to Reading Museum.

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 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. This is the one housed in Reading Museum, and apart from one or two small details is an exact copy.  The Museum is in the heart of town with easy access to the centre.

We will be arriving at around 11:45am and split into two groups.  I suggest that group one visit the onsite café and browse the museum before their introductory talk and visit to the tapestry at 1:00pm.  Group two’s talk and tour is at 2:00pm, which gives them the opportunity to walk the short distance to explore Reading shops and have lunch in one of the many cafes.    Likewise, after their tour, group one will have an hour to explore the shops.

We will leave for our return to Cranleigh at 3:15pm.  What a great thing to do on a possibly grey February day!

Leaving Stocklund Square 10:15am