Last updated : 23rd October 2026
We update this page with any planned service disruptions and closures that might affect our visitors and access arrangements, including essential maintenance and special events.
Museum Lift Issue - no lift access to 2nd floor galleries
Due to a serious fault, our museum lift is currently out of service. You can still access the Bayeux Tapestry using the Town Hall lift but the museum's second floor is not currently accessible by lift. Our contractor is working on the problem and hope to have it fixed once parts are available, the provisional date for our lift to be back up and running is Wednesday 25th November . We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by this disruption.
Please note - due to private events in the Town Hall there will be no lift access at all on the following days and times:
Wednesday 4th of November:
9.45am – 10.45am &
12.45pm – 2.15pm
Friday 6th of November: No lift access at all, apologies for the inconvenience.
Bayeux Tapestry Gallery access disruption and closures
The Bayeux Tapestry Gallery is a popular for guided tours and school groups, so may occasionally be closed to the general public. The tapestry can get very busy but tends to be quieter before 11am and after 3pm.
You can open this Calendar to see all days and times when the Bayeux Tapestry Gallery will be closed to the general public in the next few months.
Saturday 21st November is our Christmas Market, it will be very busy with seasonal stalls and shoppers - we strongly advice considering another date to view the tapestry.
Please note that we might add more dates if new bookings come in so please check the calendar before you plan a visit.
Booking is not required for visiting the gallery outside of our scheduled tour timings. If you are just visiting normally and not part of a group/attending a guided tour, please check our Bayeux Gallery page for more information.
Quieter times
Many school groups use our galleries in term-time weekdays between 10am and 2.15pm, the Bayeux Tapestry may be closed during school workshops. The galleries are generally quieter after 2.30pm. Berkshire school holidays can also be very busy with families.
If you wish to see a particularly gallery it is advisable contact us in advance to check access and opening times.
Hot weather and heatwaves
The museum is only partly air-conditioned, and some of our second-floor galleries can get very warm during hot weather. We suggest dressing in comfortable clothing and bringing bottled water. We have fans and cooler air-conditioned spaces where you can cool down.
In the event of extreme heat (particularly during an amber or red heat warning), we may have to close galleries at short notice or cancel tours and activities. In these circumstances we will refund any pre-booked tickets.
Reading Borough Council has advice on its website about staying safe and well in hot weather
