Discover Leek's Connection to the Bayeux Tapestry
Tuesday 12th January – Wednesday 31st March 2027
The Nicholson Institute Museum & Art Gallery, Stockwell Street, Leek, ST13 6DW
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm
Admission: Free Suitable for: All ages
Discover the fascinating story of the Bayeux Tapestry and its special connection to Leek in this new exhibition, presented as part of Bayeux Around Britain: a British Museum partnership, supported by WorldQuant.
The Bayeux Tapestry is nearly 1,000 years old, but its stories continue to inspire people today. The exhibition explores the materials, making and stories of the tapestry, alongside Leek’s own remarkable connection to it.
In 1886, the Leek Embroidery Society created a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, which was first displayed at The Nicholson Institute. The exhibition brings this local story back into the spotlight, celebrating the women who created the replica and the town’s long tradition of embroidery and textile-making.
You’ll be able to explore the tapestry through film, projection, audio and interactive touchscreens, getting closer to its intricate scenes and discovering more about the people, stories and craftsmanship behind it. The exhibition also brings together locally significant objects and artworks, alongside digital content from the British Museum.
There will also be a programme of talks and creative workshops inspired by the tapestry, medieval embroidery and Leek’s local history. Details coming soon.
About the commissioned artists
Three artists have been commissioned by OUTSIDE to create new work inspired by Leek’s connection to the Bayeux Tapestry, bringing local history and textile heritage into conversation with contemporary creativity.
Tracey Cartlidge Chirstopher Marston Rumbidzai Savanhu
Leek-based artist Tracey Cartlidge will create The Connecting Thread, a sculptural installation honouring the 35 women who made the Leek Embroidery Society’s replica in 1886. The work will invite local people to contribute their own stories through the collaborative stitching of a 36th figure.
Broadcaster, producer and artist Christopher Marston will create A Thread of Voices, an audio portrait combining historical research, newly recorded voices and the sounds of making to connect the women behind the replica with Leek’s makers and residents today.
Artist and writer Rumbidzai Savanhu will combine illustration and textiles to create a contemporary tapestry exploring personal stories, community histories, nature and the places people call home.
Together, these commissions offer fresh perspectives on Leek’s remarkable heritage and the people and stories that continue to shape the town.
Access and parking
The museum and art gallery are located on the first floor of the Nicholson Institute. There is step-free access via a lift, and the gallery can also be reached by stairs. An accessible entrance to the building is located to the left hand side of the front staircase.
There is no accessible toilet in the Museum & Art Gallery. The nearest accessible toilet is on Silk Street Car Park.
There is no car park on-site, but there are several public car parks within a short distance, including Vicarage Road and Silk Street. Parking spaces cannot be booked in advance.
The Nicholson Institute Museum and Art Gallery is part of the British Museum Bayeux Tapestry National Programme January - March 2027
Discover Leek's Connection to the Bayeux Tapestry
