The National Trust is responsible for preserving many of the UK’s stately homes, national parks, and historic landscapes. It also plays a key role in supporting a variety of community projects, maintaining green spaces, and protecting wild forests across the country. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of getting a National Trust membership and how to apply for or renew it. Discover all the savings you can enjoy here.
What Is the National Trust?
The National Trust describes itself as Europe’s largest conservation charity and is committed to looking after nature, history, and important community facilities. Its work spans everything from public playing fields to medieval castles, as well as thousands of acres of woodlands. The Trust’s mission is to protect and care for these cherished spaces, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and heritage of Britain.
Who Pays for the National Trust?
The National Trust’s declared annual income exceeds £680 million and it is made up of a combination of annual membership subscriptions, charitable donations, and legacies left by wealthy individuals. It also has a sizeable direct income from properties under its care, as well as profits generated from shops, restaurants, eateries, and external investment activities.
You can support the National Trust by making a private donation online. Giving a donation in someone else’s name is a popular way of giving back.
What National Trust Benefits Can I Get?
Becoming a National Trust member is a great way to take full advantage of the hundreds of outdoor activities and protected locations across the UK. With membership, you can spread the cost of visits throughout the year and save money on repeat trips, making it a cost-effective option for frequent visitors.
Members enjoy free parking year-round at all National Trust locations, reducing the cost of every visit. Many sites also offer a range of walking trails for those eager to explore beyond the main attraction. A great example is Chirk Castle in North Wales, where members can access the castle and botanical gardens, while the surrounding woodland and sections of Offa’s Dyke are open to everyone—perfect for bringing along non-members for an afternoon of walking and exploration.
Additionally, free water fountains are becoming more common at National Trust sites, thanks to partnerships with local water companies, making your visits even more convenient and eco-friendly.
💡Did You Know?
As a National Trust England member, you can visit select English Heritage sites for free, including iconic landmarks like Stonehenge! Simply book your ticket in advance, and remember to bring both your booking confirmation and National Trust membership card. You may also be asked to show a valid photo ID for entry.
How Do I Apply for National Trust Membership?
To access these benefits, you can apply for membership online in a couple of minutes. You only need to supply your full name, address, and the card details you wish to pay with. It’s a simple online purchase that doesn’t require any ID checks or background checks. Think of it as purchasing any standard online product or service.
How Should I Plan My National Trust Day Out?
Planning your next National Trust visit is easy. With over 500 locations across the UK, you can search online to explore available facilities and attractions. Each site provides detailed information on essential amenities such as wheelchair access, baby-changing facilities, and options for food and drinks.
Remember that opening times vary by location and change seasonally. Since many National Trust sites are outdoors, closures can occur at short notice due to weather conditions like strong winds or storms. Safety checks for tree damage and falling debris are conducted before reopening after severe weather.
By planning ahead, you can also discover how the National Trust supports local communities. This includes the stewardship of woodlands, green spaces, and public play areas. Your membership helps protect public rights of way and bridleways, ensuring both legal and physical access despite overgrowth. You might even stumble upon a hidden gem to explore on your way home!
You may also be interested in our article on how to apply for the Older Person’s Travel Pass.
How Much Will National Trust Membership Cost?
With many National Trust tickets for non-members coming in the £15-£20 range, the savings speak for themselves even if you only visit every couple of months:
| Membership Type | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Adult (26 and over) | £91.20 |
| Young Person (18-25) | £45.60 |
| Junior (5-17) | £12.00 |
| Under-5s | Free |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children under 17) | £159.00 |
There are also a number of free seasonal memberships offered by many of the National Trust sites throughout the UK. The last one was this autumn 2024. You can use your claimed voucher until 18 October 2024.
National Trust membership is designed to rise in line with inflation and you can renew your membership online in a couple of minutes. There is also the option to have it renew automatically every year if you pay via direct debit.
Exploring and supporting heritage spaces
Joining the National Trust gives you discounted access to over 500 attractions spread right across the UK. Your membership fee is spent on maintaining these attractions, as well as other sites of historic interest and a wide array of green spaces.
FAQ’s
1. What to do if I lose my National Trust membership card?
We recommend calling the Supporter Service Centre on 0344 800 1895 as soon as possible to ensure your card is replaced promptly and free of charge. While replacements may take up to 28 days to arrive, a temporary card can be emailed to you on the same day for immediate use.
2. Can I gift National Trust membership?
Gifting National Trust membership can be done online and is a great way to invite someone you love to spend more time outdoors.
3. How long will it take for my membership card to arrive?
It may take up to 28 days for your card to arrive. In the meantime, you will be emailed a temporary card which you can start using without delay.
4. Can National Trust members take a guest for free?
While this is not standard practice, there are certain offers throughout the year, typically in the quieter months of autumn and winter. Checking the National Trust website and searching by location is the best way to make sure you don’t miss out.
5. Can someone else use my National Trust card?
Unfortunately, only the named person on the card is allowed to use it to access a National Trust location.
