Macron opens Bayeux Tapestry exhibition in London ahead of talks with Burnham
The French president is using the first international loan of the Bayeux Tapestry in nine centuries to establish a working relationship with Britain's new prime minister.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrives in London on Wednesday to officially open the British Museum exhibition featuring the Bayeux Tapestry. The visit marks his first trip to the UK since Andy Burnham assumed the role of British prime minister last month following the resignation of Keir Starmer.
The 70-metre linen embroidery detailing the 1066 Norman conquest of England has departed French soil for the first time in nine centuries. The exhibition runs from 10 September until 11 July 2027, with organizers reporting that 100,000 tickets have already been purchased for the initial four months.
Curators are laying the artifact horizontally instead of hanging it vertically, a staging choice the British Museum argues allows visitors to better understand its massive scale. This unprecedented transfer initially triggered protests and an online petition from specialists concerned about the fragile textile, which contains 30 unstable tears and almost 10,000 holes.
Despite these conservation fears, French Culture Minister Catherine Pegard inspected the piece during a mid-July visit to London and confirmed it remained in good condition. Macron personally championed the unprecedented loan in 2025, viewing the cultural exchange as a vital tool to strengthen Franco-British relations.
Beyond the cultural milestone, the trip serves a critical diplomatic function for Europe as both nations manage their bilateral ties. Macron is scheduled to hold his first comprehensive discussions with Burnham on Thursday, aiming to establish a working rhythm after building a close and productive partnership with Starmer on Ukraine and Middle East policy.
A presidential official noted that the previous administration developed a highly effective relationship that yielded results on key geopolitical files. The Elysée Palace now expects this new coordination with Burnham to remain equally vital and consistent.
Officials confirmed that communication channels were opened immediately with the new British leader, who recently demonstrated his foreign policy priorities with a rapid visit to Kyiv to signal backing for Ukraine. Macron, accompanied by his wife Brigitte, will also have the opportunity to greet King Charles during the visit.
The French president has stated he is very much looking forward to seeing the historic embroidery presented in optimal conditions. The presidency described the loan as a crucial initiative designed to reinforce the bilateral relationship.
