The Longest Yarn weaves its way to Astley Hall

An internationally acclaimed exhibition described as a 'modern-day Bayeux Tapestry' is coming to Astley Hall’s Coach House Gallery, Chorley, from 14 November to 2 December 2026.

The Longest Yarn 2: Britain at War features 80 glass cases filled with hand-knitted wartime scenes and several life-size knitted wartime personnel, created by volunteer knitters from across the UK.

The exhibition depicts life in Britain during wartime and follows on from the success of the original Longest Yarn exhibition, which focused on D-Day and is now on display in Normandy after touring the UK and USA.

Step into this extraordinary and unique look into the lives of those who lived and died in wartime Britain at Astley Hall’s Coach House Gallery, book your hourly slot now and be part of The Longest Yarn 2: Britain at War, open Wednesdays to Sundays, 10am to 4pm.

Tickets are £6 (plus booking fee) for a one-hour visit, with free entry for children under three. For more information and to book, visit: www.astleypark.co.uk/longestyarn

Organiser of both The Longest Yarn and The Longest Yarn 2: Britain at War, Tansy Forster, explained the idea behind the project:

“A huge number of people came to see the first Longest Yarn exhibition, which was all about D-Day. We couldn’t wait to create a second exhibition - The Longest Yarn 2, which depicts Britain during wartime, and features memories and stories gathered by our volunteer knitters.

"The knitted wartime scenes are informed by guidance from expert historians, but often the knitter has a personal connection with the story they have chosen to portray – sometimes a relative, sometimes a place, which makes this a truly unique, heartfelt and historically important exhibition, made entirely by hand.”

 Councillor Peter Wilson, deputy leader of Chorley Borough Council, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome The Longest Yarn 2: Britain at War to Astley Hall’s Coach House Gallery. This remarkable exhibition brings wartime stories to life in a truly creative and moving way, and it is a privilege for Chorley to host such an inspiring project.

"I would encourage everyone to come and experience the incredible skill, care and community spirit that has gone into every scene.”

Bookings for larger groups can be arranged by emailing astleyhall@chorley.gov.uk

Money raised through the exhibitions will support veterans’ charities and the ENSA Memorial Appeal.