This November, Sherborne Abbey will host an extraordinary exhibition that brings Britain’s wartime experiences to life through the art of knitting. The Longest Yarn 2 – Britain at War features 80 exquisitely crafted knitted panels alongside life-size wartime figures, all woven together by volunteer knitters from across the UK.
Following the acclaimed success of the original Longest Yarn exhibition depicting D-Day scenes—which is now touring in the United States—this second installment focuses on the wider experiences of Britain during wartime. The exhibition runs from Tuesday, November 4 to Thursday, November 27, perfectly coinciding with the period of Remembrance Sunday.
Curated by Tansy Forster, who also spearheaded the original project, The Longest Yarn 2 combines historical accuracy with deeply personal stories. “Each knitted panel reflects stories drawn from expert historians and personal connections—whether a relative’s memory or a significant place,” explains Forster. “This makes the exhibition not only visually captivating but emotionally resonant and historically significant—all handcrafted with love.”
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A highlight of the exhibit will be revealed on Remembrance Sunday, November 9, when a stunning cascade of knitted poppies will be unveiled inside Sherborne Abbey, adding a poignant dimension to the commemoration.
Reverend Martin Lee of Sherborne Abbey welcomed the exhibition, saying, “We are thrilled to host this unique, detailed portrayal of life in Britain during World War II. It’s a moving tribute told through yarn that will engage visitors of all ages, from schoolchildren to elders.”
Don’t miss this unforgettable blend of art, history, and heartfelt storytelling at Sherborne Abbey this November.