Washington Old Hall will open its doors free of charge on 4 July 2026 for a special celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence. The National Trust property, which incorporates parts of the original medieval home of George Washington’s direct ancestors, is hosting the event from 11am to midday, with gates opening at 10.30am.
No booking is required for the free-entry day, which is open to all ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult. The hall normally charges admission, making this an unusual opportunity to explore the building and its gardens without cost. The celebration acknowledges the unique genealogical link between Washington village and the first President of the United States, whose family line can be traced back to the Wessyngtons who lived at the manor in the 12th and 13th centuries.
The hall was saved from demolition in the 1930s through the efforts of local headmaster Frederick Hill and the Washington Old Hall Preservation Committee, who raised funds to purchase and restore the building. It opened on 28 September 1955 and transferred to the National Trust the following year with assistance from Washington Urban District Council. American donations contributed to the restoration, and in 1977, then-US President Jimmy Carter visited the hall, cementing the cross-Atlantic relationship.
This year’s Fourth of July event forms part of the Summer of Play programme at the hall, which runs from 23 July to 31 August with US-inspired games and activities. Free parking is available on The Avenue beside the property, and level access to the lower gardens and facilities can be arranged on request. Visitors are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing for the outdoor gathering.
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