Americans Flock to the Cotswolds Amid Political Unrest

Gathering in the charming market town of Stow on the Wold each November isn’t just about Thanksgiving for Americans; it’s a blend of tradition and, perhaps, a break from the chaos back home. Sweet potato dishes, turkey, and green bean casserole fill the air with a nostalgic warmth that feels comforting.

Chef Jesse Dunbrosi, the owner of D’Ambrosi Fine Foods, has become a notable figure in this community, which has seen an influx of Americans in recent years. Her Thanksgiving and July 4th Food Hampers are particularly sought after, catering to a unique blend of expat tastes.

With the political climate shifting since Donald Trump secured his second term, many Americans have been eyeing the rolling hills of Oxfordshire more closely. “I’ve noticed quite a few Americans looking around the area,” she shared. “It’s understandable, really. Who wouldn’t want to leave a place that feels so unstable? It’s particularly daunting for women right now.”

This sentiment is echoed widely, as Trump’s actions create a ripple effect of unease, prompting some to consider relocating. In fact, U.S. applications for U.K. citizenship soared to over 6,100 last year, rising 26% from 2023, with an even steeper increase of 40% during the final months of that year when Trump was re-elected.

Interestingly, American buyers have begun to outnumber their Chinese counterparts in London’s affluent neighborhoods, according to real estate agency Knight Frank. This trend doesn’t seem confined to major cities, either. Harry Gladwin from a local real estate agency noted that a good chunk of his clientele consists of Americans eager to secure a slice of British life.

“After Trump’s re-election, many Americans have looked at the U.K. as a refuge,” he said. “It’s a safe place for property investment, and young families often desire a vacation home for long-term stays.”

Indeed, many of these new residents have tech careers, seeking to diversify their wealth beyond American borders. It’s not just in the film industry; finance professionals from the East Coast are also making the move.

The Cotswolds, with its picturesque villages and quaint cottages, seem to fit the bill for those looking for an escape. Scenes from movies like the romantic comedy featuring Cameron Diaz and Jude Law, as well as the iconic series “Downton Abbey,” were filmed there, adding to its allure. Even celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi embraced the lifestyle, relocating when Trump took office.

Luxury brands have taken notice, with new businesses cropping up to cater to this wealthy crowd. High-end establishments like the Gallery in Eynho Park have transformed from furniture stores into posh showrooms, adapting to an influx of American clientele. A former post base of a luxury brand, now upgraded, exemplifies this shift. Private clubs like Soho Farmhouse have also evolved, offering lavish amenities to cater to new residents.

Dunbrosi, who previously lived in France and Amsterdam, opened her upscale food shop just before the 2020 pandemic hit. “We see a lot of American clients now, especially those commuting between London and the Cotswolds,” she noted. “It’s like the Hamptons of England—lots of gastropubs, upscale shopping, and the convenience of being just a couple of hours from London.”

Daniel Holder, a menswear shop owner in Cirencester, remarked that Americans seem less inclined to return home. “They’re spending significantly, particularly on unique styles like tweed jackets and flat caps,” he added, highlighting the cultural fascination many have with British fashion.

Also notable is the interest in Roman artifacts among American shoppers. Nathan Hanafin Smith from Cirencester Antiques Center mentioned how visitors are often taken aback by coins that date back over two thousand years, noting how it provides a new perspective on history.

Amid these changes, wealth management firms have observed a surge in inquiries from Americans aiming to move their assets abroad. Expert Shaun Cockburn noted an uptick in interest over the past three years, partly due to concerns around existing tax laws and recent exemptions that could ease financial burdens.

“The ability to avoid taxes on foreign income for a set period makes the U.K. appealing for those traveling,” he explained. Yet, many are still required to deal with U.S. tax obligations, which complicates matters considerably.

Armand Arton, a citizenship advisor, mentioned that many American families are contemplating backup plans. “Democrats are particularly feeling the pressure to leave. The louder their opposition to Trump, the more serious their resolve to relocate becomes,” he said.

Meanwhile, Trump’s confrontations with academia seem to spur even more urgency. Job searches in the U.K. from the U.S. increased notably, especially among those seeking roles in science and research. “It’s the quickest growing search trend from any country,” he noted.

Trump’s policies have affected universities as well, with many institutions facing budget cuts and reduced student intake. This environment, as Sir John Bell pointed out, presents a unique chance for the U.K. to attract American scientists looking for more stable ground.

As for students, approximately 6,680 Americans applied for U.K. courses at the start of the year—an increase of 12% and the highest since records began in 2006.

However, it’s worth noting that potential American expats might face lower salaries in the U.K., especially in tech roles, where average pay lags significantly behind U.S. standards.

Business leaders are wary, aware of the threat posed by a second Trump administration. Doug Winter, CEO of AI Seismic, is proactively working to retain talent that might be tempted to leave America for the U.K. “The ongoing uncertainty here is definitely a concern,” he stated, emphasizing the resilience usually found within the U.S. tech sector—albeit one that feels increasingly fragile.