Bodiam before Bodiam Castle
For the first time since it was made nearly 1,000 years ago, the Bayeux Tapestry is returning to England. Join Collections and House Manager Hannah Miles for an exclusive talk about Bodiam before Bodiam Castle.
- Booking essential
- Free event
Following a historic agreement with France, the 70-metre-long tapestry, depicting events leading up to the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, will be loaned to the British Museum from September 2026 to July 2027.
To celebrate the Bayeaux Tapestry coming to the British Museum in 2026, Hannah Miles, Collections and House Manager for Bodiam Castle will deliver a new talk at Bodiam Castle, taking participants back in time to the year 1066 to reveal what Bodiam was like before Bodiam Castle. Learn about Old English names for Bodiam and their meanings.
Join Hannah to discover the historical connection between Bodiam Castle and Hastings Castle. Find out about Robert, Count of Eu and Lord of Hastings and Osbern FitzHugh and discover the origins and construction of Hastings Castle and Bodiam Castle.
As part of Heritage Open Days this talk is offered free of charge. Attendees are invited to explore Bodiam Castle free of charge after the talk.
Tuesday 15 September 2026 |11.30am to 12.15pm and 2pm to 2.45pm
Times
The basics
- Booking number
Call 0344 249 1895
- Accessibility
There is a step into the education room where this talk is held.
- Meeting point
Please ask at Visitor Reception upon arrival.
- Suitability for children
This event is designed for an adult audience.
- What to bring and wear
Please wear clothing appropriate for the weather.
- Other
The event, alongside entry to the site, is free for all visitors on this date. Tickets for this event are essential as there is a limited capacity.
Upcoming events
How to Train Your Dragon: How to be a Pirate trail
Set off on a swashbuckling adventure with young Viking Hiccup and his dragon Toothless as they take on the Pirate Training Programme.
Pride Dog Show at Bodiam Castle
Celebrate Pride at Bodiam Castle with a special dog show.
Bodiam Castle tour
Discover the story of Bodiam Castle and the people who built, lived and worked in it through the ages.
Medieval armour display at Bodiam Castle
Take a look at the medieval armour display in the castle and learn from our volunteer experts about how armour evolved during the Middle Ages.