Step into the world of Jane Austen, Downtown Abbey, and Bridgerton, by planning a tour of some of Britain’s most historic sites and beauty spots.
With more than 500 historic houses, castles, parks, and gardens, hundreds of miles of coastline, and almost one million works of art, the National Trust is Europe’s biggest conservation charity.
For U.K. residents, one annual membership fee supports the organization’s work and provides free entry to all National Trust sites throughout the year. With sites all over the country, there will always be an option for a day trip or weekend away.
Although not suited for the occasional visit, National Trust membership is a true travel bargain if you enjoy spending your free time exploring Britain’s cultural heritage, or simply strolling through pleasant gardens.
Don’t live in Britain? There’s also a way for Americans to support the work of the Trust, and receive the same benefits.
The Best Of Britain
From fairytale castles dating back to the Middle Ages to immaculately kept private gardens dotted all over the U.K., the National Trust boasts a dazzling range of historic and natural attractions, some world-famous, others virtually unknown.
Historic Castles: The National Trust preserves several iconic castles that tell tales of Britain’s storied past.
Bodiam Castle in East Sussex is a 14th-century moated castle that epitomizes the medieval age, with its imposing towers and battlements. Corfe Castle in Dorset offers breathtaking ruins on a hilltop with panoramic views, showcasing centuries of history from the Norman conquest to the Civil War.
National Trust members also receive free entry to one of the most iconic sites in Britain. Cross the causeway to Holy Island to visit Lindisfarne Castle, the former Priory that replaced the church that was ransacked by Norsemen at the beginning of the Viking Age.
Famous Gardens: The National Trust manages some of the most exquisite gardens in the U.K., ranging from formal gardens to wild, romantic landscapes.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Kent, designed by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, is famous for its romantic design and vibrant color schemes. Hidcote Manor Garden in Gloucestershire is an arts and crafts garden with intricately-designed spaces full of rare plants and stunning views. These gardens offer a peaceful retreat and an explosion of color and fragrance.
Other Highlights: Beyond castles and gardens, the National Trust protects a variety of other treasures, from historic homes and monuments to nature reserves and coastal landscapes.
Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning landscape of interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption.
The iconic St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall is a remarkable tidal island with a medieval church and castle, and a living community, accessible at low tide via a causeway.
Benefits Of National Trust Membership
Joining the National Trust offers unparalleled access to Britain’s rich history and natural beauty, while supporting the valuable conservation work.
Members enjoy unlimited free entry to over 500 places for the fee of £91.20 ($115), although those under 25 pay half. Children under 18 pay just £12 ($15), while seniors renewing their membership are also eligible for a discount.
Free parking at many of the car parks is a significant bonus, making it easier to explore remote locations. Members also receive a subscription to the National Trust Magazine.
Bear in mind that some popular Trust sites require pre-booking, even though entry is free. Parking may also require pre-booking.
Membership For U.S. Residents
National Trust membership is primarily designed for U.K. residents, but there is a great option for U.S. residents planning a visit that’s not widely publicized.
The Royal Oak Foundation is the U.S. membership affiliate of the National Trust. Members of the Foundation receive tax deductions for their support and help the Foundation make grants towards the work of the National Trust.
Best of all, Royal Oak Foundation members receive all the benefits of a National Trust member when visiting properties and sites in Britain. Annual membership of the Foundation costs $80, $125 for a couple, or $150 for a family.
If you’re planning a trip to the U.K. of at least one week, consider joining to open up a wealth of cultural heritage experiences while slashing your travel bill.