Exploring the Mayflower anniversary from multiple angles

Mayflower 400 UK is an honest, broad and inclusive commemoration of the ship’s sailing from England to America and its often challenging legacy.

It marked the 400th anniversary year from 2020 through 2021 like never before in history.

For the first time, it goes far beyond the story of the ‘Pilgrim Fathers’ and the one-dimensional version of the Mayflower voyage. It examines the history of four nations from multiple angles, explores the experiences of those impacted and tells of the ruthless consequences of colonisation.

This anniversary year faced up to these difficult truths.

It tells stories of persecution, loss and oppression as well as exploring the themes of migration, humanity and freedom that underpin its place in history.

The ambitious cultural programme highlighted the experiences of different ethnic groups both in history and today, working in tandem with the Wampanoag Nation, the very people who once stood alongside the Mayflower’s passengers but eventually saw their lands and homes brutally taken from them.

Explore the events, exhibitions, productions and projects and the people behind them throughout this website.

You can also read articles and watch videos on the history of the Mayflower, find educational toolkits and get information on visiting the places linked to the anniversary.

Read more about the Mayflower 400 commemoration here

Beyond Face

Commemoration Programme

The Mayflower 400 anniversary offered an opportunity to explore all aspects of the story and the impact of the ship's sailing through a diverse range of cultural events and commemorative projects.

Speeches from the four nations of the Mayflower 400 commemoration

The Mayflower 400 anniversary was a true four-nation commemoration between the UK, the USA, the Wampanoag Nation and the Netherlands. These speeches form part of a legacy that will help future generations to better understand the Mayflower story.

Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America

The creation of a new Wampum Belt by the Native American Wampanoag Nation is one of the cornerstones of the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower's sailing.

The Hatchling

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, thousands of people watched The Hatchling soar over Plymouth's waterfront in a unique performance which represented a powerful symbol of hope.

A statue of Wampanoag leader Massasoit

Native America

Native America is central to the Mayflower story, and Mayflower 400 is a true four-nation commemoration between the Wampanoag Nation, the USA, the UK and the Netherlands.

Speedwell

Exploring the large-scale art installation that transformed the Mount Batten Breakwater in Plymouth into a public forum for discussion and debate about the impact and legacy of the Mayflower's journey, colonialism and the ecological state of our planet.

Mayflower Events and Festivals

Mayflower 400 for Schools

Sign up for the latest Mayflower 400 news

You'll be the first to hear the latest Mayflower news, events, and more.

Mayflower 400 Proudly Supported by our National Sponsors and Funding Partners