A Remarkable New Embroidery
At The Crewel Work Company, we are incredibly excited to be involved in a truly special project that brings together British history, research and the art of embroidery.
Over the next three years, we will be working on the Eamont Tapestry, a remarkable embroidered artwork comprising a series of panels that tell the story of the life and reign of King Æthelstan, widely regarded as the first King of the English.
Celebrating a Defining Moment in History
In AD 927, rulers from across Britain gathered at Eamont Bridge, near Penrith, for a meeting that would shape the future of England. Following his conquest of York the previous year, King Æthelstan secured the submission of the northern kings, establishing his authority across the English kingdoms and laying the foundations for a united England.
The meeting is recognised as a pivotal moment in the nation's history, and in 2027 its 1,100th anniversary will be commemorated with a programme of events across Cumbria. The Eamont Tapestry celebrates this extraordinary story through embroidery, bringing together meticulous historical research, artistic design and the skills of volunteer stitchers to create a lasting legacy for future generations.
Designed by Ursula Hurst
The project has been designed by the talented artist Ursula Hurst, whose extensive research and artistic vision have transformed this important period of history into an embroidered narrative, much like the Bayeux Tapestry and, more recently, the Great Tapestry of Scotland.
The finished work will comprise ten embroidered panels, using techniques inspired by early medieval embroidery traditions.
A Lasting Legacy
Once completed, the embroidery will become part of a permanent exhibition in St Winfrid’s Chapel, Brougham Hall (1 mile down the river from Appleby), where visitors will be able to enjoy this remarkable interpretation of England's early history for generations to come.
Guests joining our Appleby Retreat in July 2027 will also have the opportunity to see the finished work in person, making it an extra-special part of the retreat experience.
Preserving History Through Stitch
The Eamont Tapestry demonstrates how traditional embroidery can bring history to life while bringing communities together. Under Phillipa's guidance, volunteers from across the region are collaborating to stitch the panels over the next three years. We warmly invite anyone visiting the area to spend some time adding their own stitches to this remarkable community project.
We feel incredibly privileged to be contributing to such a meaningful project and look forward to seeing the Eamont Tapestry take its place as a lasting exhibition for future generations to enjoy.
