American Museum in Britain

The American Museum in Britain takes you on a journey through the history of America, from its early settlers to the 20th century; and illustrates the complexity of American culture through its remarkable collections of folk and decorative arts.

Its furniture, paintings, maps, quilts, silver, and glass are presented in a series of authentic period rooms. The museum has the finest collection of Americana outside the United States.

In the new interactive American Heritage Exhibition kids of all ages enjoy the bright and tactile exhibits, displays, and dressing-up, all of which help to introduce the Founding Fathers, Native Americans and the Civil War in a fun way.

The American Museum in Britain is located in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The hilltop site of the museum's home, Claverton Manor near Bath takes full advantage of the spectacular views over the valley of the River Avon. The grounds total some 120 acres, of which forty are open to visitors. Kids love the freedom of running around the gardens, and rolling down the hill towards the tepee.

Speical Events
In addition to the museum exhibits, each year the museum has two special temporary exhibitions in the Gallery.

2009 - American Beauty: Art from Craft in 19th Century America and Theodor De Bry - First Views of America.2010 - Classic American Quilts and Treasure and Terror: Discovering the Americas in the Age of Exploration

There is a full and varied programme of events, including: live music, lectures, craft workshops, kids activities, Living History re-enanctments, book launches, quilting bees, literacture courses, textile and toy sales. Check website for details.

The museum closes at the end of Ocotober to prepare for our Christmas exhibitions, where each of the rooms is dressed in a Christmas theme. The theme for Christmas 2009 is Flights of Fancy. There is also a large dedicated Christmas shop.

FacilitiesTours, Group Visits, Free Parking (and free coach parking), Picnic Area, Café, Free Audio Tour, Gift Shops (Country Store, Gallery Shop, and Herb Shop), Lift access to all floors, adapted WC and full wheelchair access to the museum (garden access restricted).

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