A new exhibition at Leek’s Nicholson Institute Museum & Art Gallery will shine a light on the Staffordshire Moorlands’ remarkable connection to one of history’s most famous artworks.

The Bayeux Tapestry: Stories through Stitch opens on 11 January 2027, exploring the story of the Leek Embroidery Society, whose members created a full-scale replica of the Bayeux Tapestry in 1886. The replica was first displayed at the Nicholson Institute before later becoming part of Reading Museum’s collection.

Delivered by community arts programme OUTSIDE in partnership with the Friends of the Nicholson Institute Museum & Art Gallery and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, the exhibition forms part of Bayeux Around Britain, a British Museum partnership supported by WorldQuant.

Visitors will be able to delve into the story behind the famous medieval artwork through digital content from the British Museum, rarely seen artefacts, locally significant objects and newly commissioned community-created works. Interactive displays, film, projection and audio installations will offer fresh ways to explore the tapestry’s intricate scenes and discover the craftsmanship behind Leek’s own historic connection to it.

Alongside the exhibition, a programme of workshops, talks and community activities will invite people to explore themes of heritage, storytelling and textile art. A commissioned artist will also work with local communities to create new pieces inspired by both the Bayeux Tapestry and Leek’s place in its history.

Guest speakers will include historian Emily Lashford, who will explore the history of the Leek Embroidery Society; historian Eli Lycett discussing Myths of the Moorlands; artist Sue Prince examining medieval artistic styles; and textile expert Tanya Bentham, who will focus on the medieval embroidery technique known as Opus Anglicanum.

Katie Aldous, Director of OUTSIDE, said the exhibition would help people connect with both the ancient tapestry and Leek’s own “incredible local chapter” of the story.

Councillor Bill Cawley, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council’s Cabinet member for Arts Strategy and Culture, described the history of the Leek Embroidery Society as “something to be treasured and celebrated” and said the exhibition would also help welcome visitors back to the recently refurbished Nicholson Institute.

Running until 31 March 2027, the exhibition aims to connect local audiences with a major national cultural story while celebrating the Staffordshire Moorlands’ unique contribution to the legacy of the Bayeux Tapestry. Tickets and further details will be released soon at outsidearts.org.