King Charles finalises landmark deal about 900-year-old treasure

King Charles achieved a major feat following a crucial meeting with his French President Emmanuel Macron, which many UK leaders failed to close.

After 900 years, for the first time, the Bayeux Tapestry – the embroidered records of the Norman conquest of 1066 – will be returning to the UK, according to a report by The Telegraph.

The French president revealed that the King had been “instrumental in securing the agreement” which had been awaiting a conclusion for the past few years.

The historical treasure is anticipated to arrive at the British Museum in September 2026 to July 2027, while museums in Normandy, northern France, will host Britain’s Sutton Hoo collection, consisting of metal artworks including helmets, shields and spoons from the seventh century.

During an address on Tuesday at the British Museum, Macron admitted that French officials “did [their] best to be put in this situation to make the loan of the Bayeux tapestry”.

He quipped that they “found the best experts of the world to explain in perfect detail why it was impossible to make such a loan. And believe me, we found them, and believe me, we could have found them again.

“But we just decided a few years ago, and I have to pay tribute to your King because it was a discussion together and I saw his attachment, his willingness, towards this project.”

Charles holds a personal passion for the Norman tapestry, which is so central to British history.

The deal was first announced in 2018 by then-Prime Minister Theresa May. Now a pandemic and after four different prime minister the deal has finally reached its conclusion.