The Bayeux Tapestry, a medieval embroidery illustrating William the Conqueror’s 1066 invasion of England, underwent security checks for potential stowaway migrants before crossing the English Channel, officials have confirmed. The artwork’s transport, which took place on July 9, involved a lorry journey from Bayeux in France to London, where it is scheduled for display at the British Museum starting September 10.

Despite the high-profile nature of the loan, which has garnered attention at the highest levels of government, the vehicle carrying the tapestry was subject to the same border procedures as other freight. Upon reaching the Eurotunnel terminal near Coquelles—a known hotspot for attempted migrant crossings—the lorry was thoroughly inspected to ensure no unauthorized passengers were aboard. Due to concerns that opening the climate-controlled vehicle could jeopardize the delicate embroidery, customs officials refrained from boarding the lorry and instead conducted inspections using sniffer dogs. French authorities also conducted pre-emptive patrols and migrant sweeps around the terminal ahead of the convoy’s arrival.

In recent years, nearly 6,000 migrants have been discovered attempting to board vehicles at Channel ports, including Coquelles, underlining the risks faced during cross-Channel transit. French President Emmanuel Macron has personally overseen the protection arrangements for the tapestry, which involved a significant security operation: hundreds of officers, riot police, and a helicopter escort secured the convoy during its journey to the border.

After the French checks, the lorry crossed into the United Kingdom, where Kent Police took over security for the transit via the Le Shuttle service through the Eurotunnel. Upon arrival at Folkestone, Metropolitan Police officers assumed responsibility for the final leg along the M20 motorway to central London.

The exhibition at the British Museum is expected to draw substantial visitor interest, as this is the tapestry’s first return to England in 900 years. However, conservators have stressed the fragility of the piece, noting that it can only be exposed to light for limited periods each day. To accommodate the anticipated crowds, the museum has prepared crowd management measures intended to maintain steady visitor flow and protect the embroidery’s condition.