Celebrating 1000 years of history!
The Maldon Embroidery, formerly known as The ‘Millenium Embroidery’ was masterminded and designed by the nationally known local artist Humphrey Spender. It is alive with vibrant colour and originality of design.
Discover the Maldon Embroidery
Humphrey Spender insisted that people should never call it a tapestry. He believed the word suggested something “faded and dun-coloured”. The Maldon Embroidery is the exact opposite. It is vibrant, colourful, and full of life.
The Embroidery includes seven magnificent panels. Together, they stretch 42 feet in length and measure 26 inches deep. They celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of the Battle of Maldon in 991 AD. The panels tell the story of the famous battle between the Anglo-Saxons and the Viking (Danish) invaders. They also illustrate key moments in Maldon’s history, ending with the Embroidery’s unveiling in 1991.
Humphrey Spender and Lee Cash led the project from start to finish. Meanwhile, 86 local women completed the Embroidery in just three and a half years. They used many different embroidery techniques to create every scene. Their skill, patience, and dedication shine through every panel. Above all, the project became a true labour of love.
Visit the Maeldune Heritage Centre to see this remarkable work for yourself. Display books explain the story behind each panel and help bring the scenes to life. You can also buy souvenir postcard packs and individual postcards featuring all seven panels. In addition, the Centre sells a Maldon Embroidery brochure. Leaflets are also available in Dutch and French.
Whether you love history, embroidery, or local heritage, the Maldon Embroidery offers a fascinating journey through more than 1,000 years of Maldon’s past.
Talks and Group Visits
The Maeldune Heritage Centre welcomes individual visitors and organised groups. To arrange a talk or book a group visit, simply request a booking form from the Centre Manager by emailing managermaeldune@gmail.com.
