About America250UK

 Built by the ancestors of George Washington and saved from ruin by donors from both the UK and USA, Sulgrave Manor is the original home of the Special Relationship.

Steeped in history with a legacy that unites nations, be inspired by our stories and consider why working together is still important today.

  Harlaxton Manor, the stunning Victorian house is owned by the University of Evansville, Indiana, and operates a unique study abroad programme for students, aged 18 to 21, from around the world. 

 Home to American stories, decorative arts, folk art and textiles, special exhibitions, acres of wildlife-friendly gardens and exciting events. Feel alive with nature and art, and relax at the American Garden Deli with its scenic valley terrace. 

 We're the only remaining home of Benjamin Franklin in the world, and we're now open 5 days a week, delivering three different public tour options. 

 Lewes Set for Landmark Year as Thomas Paine: Legacy Launches Major 250th Anniversary Programme

Lewes will take centre stage in 2026 as Thomas Paine: Legacy launches an ambitious year-long programme of exhibitions, public events and civic conversations marking 250 years since Common Sense and the Declaration of Independence—two texts that ignited revolutions and reshaped modern ideas of democracy. The programme forms part of America250UK, the national campaign marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, and is also recognised within Culture East Sussex’s Cultural Priority Pipeline for its strategic importance to the region’s cultural and civic life.

On 10 January 1776, Thomas Paine published Common Sense, the incendiary pamphlet that denounced monarchy, challenged imperial power and set out a radical programme for self-rule. Its bold vision of democratic representation helped spark the movement that led to the Declaration of Independence—one of history’s most influential statements of human rights and political freedom. Their ideas continue to resonate powerfully in debates about democracy, justice and community today.

Throughout 2026, audiences are invited to explore themes of democracy, liberty, community power and climate hope through exhibitions, films, workshops and public gatherings. The 250th anniversary offers a timely opportunity to return to Paine’s ideas and to ask what it means, now, to “begin the world over again” (Paine in Common Sense, 1776).

  George Calvert built Kiplin Hall in 1625, he went on (with his family) to found the first colony in (and be proprietary governors of) Maryland 

   Raby is the ancestral home of Sir Henry Vane, 5th Governor of Massachusetts. A radical supporter of liberty of conscience,  and advocate for the foundation of Rhode Island.  Raby was also the birthplace of  Jeremiah Dixon who trained as estate surveyor best known for his work on the Mason-Dixon line.