Immerse yourself in the world of Jane Austen, Downtown Abbey, and Bridgerton as you plan a trip to some of Britain’s top historic attractions and monuments.
With more than 500 historic houses, castles, parks and gardens, many kilometres of coastline and almost a million works of art, the National Trust is Europe’s largest conservation charity.
For UK residents, an annual club payment supports the organisation’s work and provides free access to all National Trust sites throughout the year. With sites spread across the country, there will be the option of spending a vacation day or a vacation weekend.
Although suitable for a casual visit, the National Trust club is a real discount if you like to spend your free time exploring Britain’s cultural heritage or just walking through lovely gardens.
Don’t live in the UK? There is also a way for Americans to access the Trust’s paintings and enjoy the same benefits.
From fairytale castles dating back to the Middle Ages to impeccably manicured personal gardens dotting the UK, the National Trust has a dazzling array of historical and herbal attractions, some world-renowned, some virtually unknown.
Historic Castles: The National Trust preserves several iconic castles that tell the story of Britain’s past.
Bodiam Castle in East Sussex is a 14th-century moated castle that embodies medieval times, with its towering towers and battlements. Corfe Castle in Dorset offers stunning hilltop ruins with panoramic views depicting centuries of history, from the Norman Conquest to the Civil War.
Members of the National Trust also have free access to one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks. Cross the causeway to Holy Island to Lindisfarne Castle, the former priory that replaced the church sacked by the Normans at the start of the Viking Age.
Famous gardens: The National Trust manages some of the UK’s most exquisite gardens, from formal gardens to wild and romantic landscapes.
The lawn of Sissinghurst Castle in Kent, designed by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, stands out for its romantic design and bright colours. Hidcote Manor Garden in Gloucestershire is an artistic and handcrafted garden with intricately designed spaces filled with rare plants and amazing views. . These lawns offer non-violent shelter and an explosion of color and aromas.
Other highlights: Beyond castles and gardens, the National Trust protects many other treasures, from historic houses and monuments to nature reserves and coastal landscapes.
The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a striking landscape of interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption.
The iconic Mont Saint-Michel in Cornwall is an extraordinary tidal island with a medieval church and castle, as well as a lively community, accessible via a causeway at low tide.
Joining the National Trust brings something unheard of to Britain’s rich history and natural beauty, while also supporting valuable conservation work.
Members get free, unlimited access to over 500 seats for a charge of £91. 20 ($115), those under 25 pay half. Children under the age of 18 pay just £12 ($15), while seniors renewing their club are also eligible. for a discount.
Free parking in many car parks is a great perk that allows you to explore remote locations. Members also get a subscription to the National Trust magazine.
Keep in mind that some popular Trust sites require advance reservation, though admission is free. Parking may also require advance reservations.
The National Trust club is primarily for UK citizens, however, there is a wonderful option for US citizens making plans that doesn’t get a lot of publicity.
The Royal Oak Foundation is the U. S. subsidiary of the National Trust. Foundation members get tax deductions for their works and help the Foundation make grants for National Trust paintings.
Best of all, members of the Royal Oak Foundation will have all the benefits of a member of the National Trust when visiting homes and sites in Britain. The Foundation’s annual club costs $80, $125 for a couple, or $150 for a family.
If you’re planning a UK holiday for at least a week, join us to receive a wealth of cultural heritage reports while also reducing your travel bill.