The Bayeux Tapestry. Closer to home.
A FREE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
See all 70 metres. Digitally Immersive .
An extraordinary story. A rare opportunity. Right here in East Sussex.
Nearly 1,000 years after the Battle of Hastings, one of the world's most remarkable historical artworks is coming to life through an immersive digital experience at East Sussex College.
We're proud to be a partner in the British Museum's Bayeux Tapestry National Programme - and the only further education college named among its partners.
Using extraordinary high-resolution imagery and digital technology, we're bringing the story of 1066 closer to the communities where history was made.
Free to experience. Limited tickets available.
Be among the first to hear when tickets are released.
1066. A story that changed history. A place that remembers it.
On 14th October 1066, the Battle of Hastings changed the course of English history forever.
Almost a thousand years later, the story is still being told.
The Bayeux Tapestry is one of the world's most extraordinary historical treasures. Measuring around 70 metres long, its intricate embroidery tells the story of the Norman Conquest, including the events leading up to the Battle of Hastings.
And now, there's a remarkable opportunity to explore that story right here in East Sussex.
Where better to discover the events of 1066 than in the place where so much of that history unfolded?
History brought to life.
Imagine exploring the extraordinary detail of the Bayeux Tapestry, discovering its characters, following its story and seeing history through an entirely different lens.
As part of the British Museum's national programme, East Sussex College has been given access to exceptionally high-resolution digital imagery of the tapestry, alongside specially developed audiovisual content.
Through projection, digital displays and storytelling, we're creating an experience that brings visitors closer to the people, places and events that shaped our history.
Whether you're fascinated by 1066, love discovering something new or simply fancy a different kind of day out, we'd love you to join us.
An experience for curious minds of all ages.
A remarkable moment for history. And for East Sussex.
The original Bayeux Tapestry is being exhibited at the British Museum in London as part of a historic loan from France.
It's an extraordinary cultural moment — and one we're delighted to help share beyond the capital.
As the only further education college named among the British Museum's National Programme partners, East Sussex College has a special opportunity to bring this remarkable story to local audiences.
For those who can't travel to London, or who simply want to discover the tapestry closer to home, our digital experience offers another way to explore its extraordinary detail and history.
We're incredibly proud to open our doors and share this opportunity with our communities.
History belongs to everyone. And this is a story with a very special connection to East Sussex.
Bringing 1066 to life for young historians.
A history lesson they'll remember.
The story of 1066 is one of the most exciting parts of the primary school history curriculum. And here in East Sussex, it's part of our local story too.
We're inviting primary schools to discover the Bayeux Tapestry through special educational visits at East Sussex College.
Using digital imagery, engaging storytelling and age-appropriate learning activities, we'll help pupils explore the events of the Norman Conquest, discover how people lived nearly 1,000 years ago and understand why the Battle of Hastings still matters today.
It's a wonderful opportunity to bring classroom learning to life, inspire curiosity and help young people connect with the history on their doorstep.
Interested in bringing your school?
We're planning dedicated school visits, with dates and arrangements confirmed separately.
Your questions answered
Is the experience really free?
Yes! Our Bayeux Tapestry digital experience is completely free to attend. You'll just need to book a timed ticket when bookings open, as places are limited.
Is this the original Bayeux Tapestry?
The original Bayeux Tapestry is on display at the British Museum in London as part of a historic loan from France.
Our experience uses exceptionally high-resolution digital imagery of the Tapestry made available through the British Museum's Bayeux Tapestry National Programme.
Where can I see the experience?
We're planning experiences across all our campuses, so you will be able to experience the Tapestry in Hastings, Eastbourne and Lewes.
How long does the experience last?
Public sessions are booked in 1-hour slots and the immersive experience will last approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive a little before your allocated time.
Can I bring children?
Absolutely. We're looking forward to welcoming families and visitors of different ages.
The experience explores the events surrounding the Norman Conquest and the Battle of Hastings. Some historical scenes depict conflict, and the digital presentation may take place in a darkened environment.
Is the experience accessible?
We want as many people as possible to enjoy this opportunity.
Our College campuses have accessible facilities, but please contact us if you have specific access requirements so we can discuss how best to support your visit.
Can schools book a visit?
Yes. We're planning dedicated educational visits for primary school groups, with age-appropriate content and activities.
Please contact Schoolsandevents@escg.ac.uk to register your school's interest.
What happens if I book tickets but can't attend?
If your plans change, please let us know so we can offer your places to someone else.
Will registering my interest guarantee a ticket?
No. Registering means we'll email you when tickets are released, but availability will depend on capacity.
Be among our Founding Friends.
A little more than a ticket.
We're also creating something new at East Sussex College.
Friends of East Sussex College is a growing community of people who want to stay connected to the College and discover more of what happens here.
From exhibitions, performances and inspiring talks to special events, learning opportunities and ways to support the next generation, there's so much we'd love to share with you.
And as a thank you for being among our Founding Friends, you'll enjoy priority access to selected events — including our Bayeux Tapestry experience.
Joining is completely free.
You can register your interest in Bayeux tickets without joining Friends. We'd simply love you to be part of our wider community if it interests you.
History is waiting. Will you be there?
Nearly 1,000 years after the Battle of Hastings, we're bringing an extraordinary piece of history closer to home.
And we'd love you to be part of it.
Free. Limited availability. Coming November 2026.
East Sussex College is a partner in the British Museum's Bayeux Tapestry National Programme.
Bayeux Tapestry imagery: © La Fabrique de patrimoines en Normandie / Antoine Cazin