American Museum in Britain

The American Museum takes you on a journey through the history of America, from its early settlers to the twentieth century. With its remarkable collection of folk and decorative arts, the Museum shows the diverse and complex nature of American traditions. The only museum of Americana outside the United States, it was founded to bring American history and cultures to the people of Britain and Europe.

Each year a special temporary exhibition is on display in our Exhibition Gallery, in 2013 this will be Gangsters & Gunslingers: The Good, The Bad & The Memorabilia: America’s outlaw heroes from the David Gainsborough Roberts Collection.

Throughout the season there is a range of exciting events planned, including traditional American music concerts, kids’ activities, and Living History events.

The Museum is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, with spectacular views over the Limpley Stoke Valley and the River Avon. The grounds total some 125 acres, of which 35 are open to visitors.

Opening times:
23 March – 3 November, Tuesday – Sunday, 12noon-5pm
29 March, 1 April, 6 May, 27 May & 26 August 12noon-5pm
Every Monday in August 12noon-5pm
28 November – 22 December, Tuesday – Sunday, 12noon – 4.30pm

Exhibitions and events

New World, Old Maps

Permanent exhibition

In 1988 Dr. Dallas Pratt, co-founder of the American Museum in Britain, gave the Museum over 200 Renaissance maps of the New World – a collection acclaimed by scholars as one of the finest holdings...