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2027 Year of the Normans programme announced
4th November 2026
Reading has announced its headline programme for next year’s European Year of the Normans. 2027 will see international celebrations to mark 1000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror who famously became King of England following the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
As part of an ambitious international programme of events, Reading has been selected to mark its place in this story with a programme centred around Reading’s Norman Abbey Ruins, Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry and a brand-new touring play, William the Conqueror, developed by RABBLE Theatre.
At the core of Reading’s Year of the Normans programme:-
- RABBLE Theatre’s William the Conqueror. RABBLE Theatre (Telegraph Top 5 & Guardian Top 20 UK Show) are developing a bold new stage production that tells the extraordinary life of William the Conqueror. The play is being developed here in Reading for a national tour of the UK in autumn 2027, with major partners including Visit England, British Council and Arts Council England, as well as France’s Région Normandie and In Itinere Collectiv. William the Conqueror opens on 17 September 2027 (see separate PR).
- Guided tours of Reading Abbey Ruins. The Abbey was built by King Henry I of England, son of William the Conqueror, in 1121 as Henry’s mausoleum. The ruins of the Norman abbey are at the heart of the modern-day town. Tours April - October
- Visits to see Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry - the only full-scale replica of the original Norman tapestry, which tells the story of the Norman conquest of Britain. Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry was created 140 years ago by a group of Victorian women from Staffordshire and has resided in Reading Museum for over a century. Measuring 70 metres in length, it is identical to the original in almost every aspect. Guided tours (Tues, Thurs, Sat £15) and self-guided tours during Museum opening hours (free).
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The Reading Year of the Normans programme is still developing and will also include medieval guided walks, a Medieval Weekend in Dinton Pastures (18/19 Sep 2027), river trips and Reading’s WaterFest. Further detail will be available in early 2027.
