Sulgrave Manor

Sulgrave Manor is a superb example of a modest manor and garden of the time of Shakespeare, and was home to the ancestors of George Washington.

In 1539 the manor was bought by Lawrence Washington from Henry VIII and his descents were to live there for the next 120 years. In 1656, Lawrence Washington's great, great grandson Colonel John Washington left England to take up land in Virginia which later became Mount Vernon. Col. Washington was the Great Grandfather of George Washington, first President of the United States of America. In 1914, Sulgrave Manor was presented by a body of British subscribers to the Peoples of Great Britain and the United States of America, in celebration of the Hundred Years Peace between the two nations. In 1924, the National Society of Colonial Dames of America generously endowed the Manor House and still co-operates with the Board in its upkeep.

The Manor stands as a permanent reminder of the special relationship between Britain and America, and today visitors from all over the world, including many school children, come to enjoy this beautiful Tudor house.

Your visit to the Manor

Allow time for the tour to commence; about one and a half hours in the house; and then a stroll around the beautiful gardens, designed in the formal style by Sir Reginald Blomfield; a study of the George Washington Exhibition in the Brewhouse; perhaps take light refreshments in the Buttery (or bring a picnic) and browse in the gift shop.

We think you need half a day to fully enjoy and experience everything Sulgrave has to offer.

Educational Visits

We can also tailor special days specifically to your requirements featuring the English Civil War and the 18th Century. Teachers should telephone for an information leaflet showing the full Schools Programme, or talk to our Senior Education Officer to discuss any particular projects.

Disabled access to all new facilities but limited in the Manor House. WC in Courtyard.