The Prestonpans Tapestry

The Prestonpans Tapestry is the jewel in the crown of the Trust’s collection and a tribute to both the events of 1745 and their lasting cultural resonance. Stitched by volunteers working to designs by artist Andrew Crummy, the Tapestry comprises 105m of embroidery (wool onto linen). Its panels tell the story of the two armies as they cross Scotland in 1745, culminating in the dramatic events at Prestonpans and their immediate aftermath.

You can find out more about the inspirations behind the Tapestry on the Background Information page. To explore the panels and the stories behind them, click here. Details of exhibitions are posted on the Events page, whilst you can find the latest news in our blog.

You can discover the story behind the making of the Prestonpans Tapestry in this fascinating documentary by Eric Robinson, filmed in the closing months of the project and featuring interviews with local stitchers.

The Tapestry inadvertently initiated something of a golden age for Scottish embroidery, inspiring a number of similar projects across the country as well as further afield. Amongst these is the remarkable Scottish Diaspora Tapestry, which the Trust also operates. More about the Diaspora tapestry can be discovered on its dedicated website, and associated merchandise can be found in our online shop.