American Museum and Gardens, Bath

 

Well behaved dogs on a short lead are allowed in the Fair and Gardens. Assistance dogs are permitted in all public areas of the Museum and Gardens. 

The American Museum takes you on a journey through a period of American history primarily focused on 14th – 20th centuries. With its remarkable collection of folk, decorative arts and cultural objects, the Museum shows the diverse and complex nature of American traditions. The only museum of Americana outside of the United States, it was founded to bring American history and cultures to the people of Britain and Europe.

Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, the hilltop site of the Museum’s home, Claverton Manor, takes full advantage of the spectacular views over the Limpley Stoke Valley and River Avon. The founders of the American Museum & Gardens, John Judkyn and Dr. Dallas Pratt, believed that the landscape surrounding Claverton Manor should be part of the Museum’s education program and visitor experience.

Remnants of the old Italianate style manorial pleasure gardens and parkland, dating from the 1820s, can be seen within the grounds, including period features such as the grotto, the balustrade and curtain walling, as well as ornamental stone work. This work is attributed to George Vivian, son of the original owner of Claverton Manor, John Vivian.

The New American Garden is the first European commission for Washington DC-based landscape architects Oehme, van Sweden (OvS). The planting follows the free-form style made famous by the firm’s founders, Wolfgang Oehme and James van Sweden.

Since the Museum opened in 1961, the 30 acres surrounding the house have been developed to include a replica of George Washington’s garden at Mount Vernon, a Lewis and Clark trail, and an Arboretum.

Photos by Peter Hall

Admission

Gardens and Fair Only: Adults £7.50, Child 5-17 £5,  Under 5's Free

Museum, Exhibition, Gardens and Fair: Adults £13, Child 5-17 £7, Under 5's Free.

Family tickets also available. For the full range of admission prices please visit https://americanmuseum.org/visit/opening-times-admission/

Parking

There is free onsite visitor parking, including spaces for Blue Badge holders. Please follow the instructions of the parking staff on the day of the Fair.

Accessibility

Comprehensive information is available in the Museum's Accessibility Guide.

Refreshments

Lunches and refreshments will be available from The Garden Café and Terrace 

Picnics

Picnics are welcome throughout the grounds.

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Nurseries Attending