In 1998 the Rotary Club of Highcliffe-on-Sea discussed various possible ways to celebrate the coming Millennium in 2000 - other than putting on a special event, such as a fete, which they already did every year.  

A small steering committee, consisting of two Rotarians, Mike Reynolds and Vic Wren, along with local historian Ian Stevenson, was formed to come up with a project.  They suggested a “Tapestry”- a series of multi-media pictures produced by local people which depicted periods and events in the village’s history. 

A public meeting held at the Methodist Hall in October 1998 adopted the idea with enthusiasm. There was strong support for a unique, living tapestry which could be added to in the future as events occur, unlike those such as the Bayeux and D-Day tapestries which record one principal event.  Volunteers came forward, either individually or within a team representing an organisation. They could pick from a list of historic periods, events, buildings, etc. and illustrate them in any media of their choice.

The Tapestry was launched in a public display by Highcliffe Rotary President Ken Monk, at Highcliffe Castle in July 2000. The arts and crafts used in the various panels included painting, needlework, marquetry, collage and ceramics.   

For ten years a selection was on display at Highcliffe Library. When a second exhibition of the collection was held in Highcliffe Castle’s Drawing Room in February 2010 more volunteers came forward to progress the project.   

In the following year, the Castle kindly gave permission for a selection of panels to go on permanent display there.   

About 100 people have been involved in the production of some 35 panels covering not only Highcliffe but also Walkford, the Cat & Fiddle Pub and Steamer Point.  Artists, craftspeople, framers and helpers have given their time voluntarily.   

Members of Highcliffe Rotary have been delighted to assist with the sponsorship and organisation of this project.  It is now owned and curated by The Millennium Tapestry Group.   

The crest adopted by the Tapestry Group, with kind permission, is the arms of the Earl of Wharncliffe, whose family has links with the original High Cliff House and later Highcliffe Castle, which has given the village its name.