Residents in and around Hastings have expressed frustration over what they describe as a "shambolic" ticketing process for the Bayeux Tapestry, with many reporting considerable difficulty in obtaining tickets.
Despite assurances that local residents would have priority access, many found the booking system unmanageable. Attempts to secure tickets on the day they went on sale were met with engaged phone lines, lengthy hold times, and disconnections. "I can't believe we had to phone up - it's such a shame, I'd have loved to have got priority tickets but now I'll have to try and get tickets like everyone else," said Jenny from St Leonards, who experienced hours of trying to get through.
Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore criticized the process, stating that residents were unable to get through or were cut off after long waits. "Why is it so hard for local residents of 1066 Country to get tickets, but so easy for billionaires to get exclusive private viewings?" Dollimore questioned, emphasizing that as a publicly funded museum, the British Museum has a responsibility to make the arts accessible to the public.
A spokesperson for the British Museum stated that tickets offered to residents were on a "first come, first served basis." The museum added that all residents are still able to book tickets during the general sale on October 21. A further opportunity to obtain tickets will be available when a new round is released in the new year.
The British Museum also explained that setting up a dedicated online platform for residents was not financially feasible, as it could potentially exclude some individuals and that codes could be vulnerable to widespread sharing. Residents who missed out on initial opportunities will have the chance to purchase tickets during the general release and in the upcoming release in the new year.