Last Invasion Tapestry Gallery Fishguard Town Hall
A 100-foot community-made embroidery depicting the last French invasion of Britain in 1797.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Last Invasion Tapestry Gallery Fishguard Town Hall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 100-foot community-made embroidery depicting the last French invasion of Britain in 1797.
"A wonderful feat of art which was a pleasure to see! You could almost feel the pride Fishguard has in its history. "
Admire the Scale
It's as long as the Bayeux Tapestry! Take your time to absorb the details.
Modest Entry Fee
Affordable admission, with children often free. A great value for history buffs!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Last Invasion Tapestry
A stunning 100-foot embroidery detailing the 1797 French invasion of Britain.
Historical Context
Learn about the dramatic events of 1797 and the community's response.
Community Craftsmanship
Appreciate the intricate stitching and dedication of the 80 local artisans.
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Planning Your Visit
A Community Masterpiece
Visit the Town Hall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire the Scale
It's as long as the Bayeux Tapestry! Take your time to absorb the details.
Modest Entry Fee
Affordable admission, with children often free. A great value for history buffs!
Community Pride
Feel the pride Fishguard has in its unique history and this collaborative artwork.
Multilingual Experience
Enjoy the local language in videos; subtitles aren't always provided.
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire the Scale
It's as long as the Bayeux Tapestry! Take your time to absorb the details.
Modest Entry Fee
Affordable admission, with children often free. A great value for history buffs!
Community Pride
Feel the pride Fishguard has in its unique history and this collaborative artwork.
Multilingual Experience
Enjoy the local language in videos; subtitles aren't always provided.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Last Invasion Tapestry as a 'wonderful feat of art' and a 'splendid work' that beautifully captures Fishguard's history. The community effort and modest entry fee are frequently highlighted as positives, though some note it's an embroidery rather than a true tapestry.
"A wonderful feat of art which was a pleasure to see! We learned about the history of Fishguard due to our stay nearby, and once our youngest boy.learned of the tapestry it was a must see for us. This fantastic community effort is housed in the Town Hall where the library is housed, £3.50 per adult and U16s free. This was simply wonderful to see, you could almost feel the pride Fishguard has in its history."
Chris Cole
"My second visit to see this wonderful project undertaken by members of the Fishguard community to celebrate the last invasion of the British Isles. It is a splendid work, although they really should stop calling it a tapestry! The work is displayed in the library and it is exquisite. Also there is information regarding the history of the event as well as the design and stitching of the embroidery. I love that the video showing the stitchers talking about their work allows them to speak their first language and makes no effort to provide subtitles for those who don’t speak either Welsh or English. Well worth seeing and paying a very modest £3.50 entry fee."
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gallery is located within Fishguard Town Hall, which is centrally located in Fishguard. You can reach Fishguard by car via the A40 or by train to Fishguard & Goodwick railway station. From the station, it's a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk to the town hall.
There is usually parking available in Fishguard town centre, though it can be busy during peak times. Look for local car parks.
Yes, the tapestry gallery is accessible to all visitors. While some informational videos may be in Welsh, the tapestry itself is a visual experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The gallery is housed within the Town Hall and library, so hours generally align with library opening times. It's best to check the official Fishguard Town Hall or Pembrokeshire County Council website for the most current hours.
Admission is very affordable, typically around £3.50 for adults, with children often admitted for free.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Last Invasion Tapestry. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival at the Town Hall.
Fishguard Town Hall is generally accessible, but it's advisable to contact them directly to confirm specific accessibility details for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff on-site to confirm.
Weekdays and mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a better opportunity for unobstructed photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Admission is usually very affordable, with children often getting in for free, making it a budget-friendly activity. The Town Hall location means you can combine your visit with a quiet moment in the library, and the manageable size of the exhibit means it won't tire out younger visitors.
📚 History Buffs & Art Lovers
Appreciate the historical accuracy and the artistic interpretation of the 1797 invasion. The detailed stitching and the narrative flow of the tapestry provide a rich experience for anyone interested in the craft of embroidery and its role in storytelling.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of the Last Invasion
The local militia, along with armed civilians, quickly mobilized to confront the invaders. Legend has it that the women of Fishguard, dressed in their traditional Welsh black hats and red cloaks, were mistaken for British regulars by the French, leading them to believe a larger force was present. This, combined with the determined resistance, led to the French surrender within two days.
This dramatic event is commemorated by the Last Invasion Tapestry, a significant piece of local history and art. The tapestry serves as a vibrant visual narrative of the invasion, the community's bravery, and the eventual French surrender, ensuring the story is remembered for generations to come.
Crafting the Tapestry: A Community Effort
Each stitch tells a part of the story, from the landing of the French ships to the surrender. The detail and craftsmanship involved are evident throughout the tapestry, showcasing the dedication and skill of the artisans. It's often compared to the Bayeux Tapestry for its historical significance and artistic merit, though it is an embroidery rather than a true tapestry.
Visitors can learn not only about the historical event but also about the design and stitching process. Videos featuring the stitchers discussing their work are often available, offering a personal connection to the creation of this unique artwork.
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