A Thread Through History
We knit history. Bringing World War II to life
Handcrafted stories from the past, stitch by stitch
The Longest Yarn® is a unique knitted and crocheted exhibition telling the story of World War II through wool.
The Story Behind the Stitches
From D-Day to the Home Front
From D-Day and the Battle of Britain to life on the Home Front, each scene has been researched, designed, and created by volunteers across the world — uncovering forgotten wartime stories and honouring those who lived them.
From One Idea to Global Impact
A Global Journey
What began as one idea and a handful of knitters has grown into two major touring exhibitions, displayed in cathedrals, museums, and historic venues in the UK, France, and the USA
Discover Our Exhibitions
The Longest Yarn 1 - D-Day Normandy
The exhibition has returned to Carentan (Saint-Hilaire-Petitville)! Come and explore it now.
Eglise Saint Hilaire
4 Place de l'Eglise
50500 Saint-Hilaire-Petitville
Opening Hours
Monday : 11 am - 4pm
Tuesday: 11 am - 4pm
Wednesday - 11 am - 4pm
Thursday - 11 am - 4pm
Friday 11am - 4pm
Saturday 11 am - 4pm
Sunday - CLOSED
Free admission – This exhibition relies solely on your donations to continue.
Where to find us:
GPS : 49.302663, -1.229617
What3Words: ///caveman.spire.pelting
The exhibition in Saint-Hiliaire-Petitville will close on September 18th and is set to return in Spring 2027. In the meantime, The Longest Yarn D-Day will be touring the United Kingdom, with stops planned in Northern Ireland, Shepton Mallet, Lichfield, and Weymouth. Stay tuned for the exact opening dates and times, which will be announced soon.
The Longest Yarn 2 - Britain at War
Touring the United Kingdom
Welshpool Town Hall
42 Broad St, Welshpool SY21 7JQ
1st to 30th September
Visiting Hours
Daily 9:00 am - 5pm
School visits welcome. Evening visits by arrangement.
For comprehensive information about Welshpool, visit this link.
Admission prices:
Entry: £5 suggested donation per adult. All donations will help support local and national charities including the ENSA Memorial Appeal, Rotary Club, Inspire Cancer Support Group, Powys Montgomeryshire Women’s Institute, Welshpool 1940s Weekend, Welshpool U3A.
You can book advance tickets here. No more than 6 tickets per booking
For additional details about the exhibition and the fringe events taking place alongside it, please visit: https://longestyarnwelshpool.co.uk/
Be Part of the Story
The Longest Yarn® is more than an exhibition—it’s a community effort to keep history alive through craftsmanship. There are many ways you can be part of this journey and support our mission:
Purchase Our Books
Our beautifully crafted books are not only a way to bring home a piece of history but also our main source of revenue to keep the project going.
Bid in our Auctions
Participate in our auctions for unique, handcrafted items created by our talented volunteers. Every bid helps us continue our work.
Create with Us
If you love to knit or crochet, consider making items for us to sell. Your handiwork can become part of our story.
Donate Funds
Your financial contributions go directly towards funding our exhibitions, research, and community outreach.
Stay Connected
Explore our Blog
Dive into behind the scenes stories, historical insights and updates form our team.
Discover the stories behind the stitches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about The Longest Yarn®? Check out our FAQ page for answers to common inquiries.
More than an Exhibition
Unites Communities
Bringing people together through shared history and craftsmanship.
Educates New Generations
Teaching the stories of WWII in a tangible, memorable way.
Supports Veterans
Raising funds for veteran charities and honouring their legacy.