Whether you’re a lifelong member or have only just discovered the National Trust, you can find out more about us by reading up on our history and the work we do today.

As Europe’s largest conservation charity, we look after nature, beauty and history for everyone to enjoy. We do it with the help of millions of members, volunteers, staff and donors. Without this, we couldn’t care for the miles of coastline, woodlands, countryside and the hundreds of historic buildings, gardens and precious collections we protect.

Deep-rooted beginnings

In 1895, our founders, Octavia Hill, Robert Hunter and Hardwicke Rawnsley pledged to preserve our historic and natural places. Their aim was not only to save important sites, but to open them up for everyone to enjoy.

They created the National Trust, and more than 125 years later, their mission is at the heart of everything we do.

Who we are and what we stand for

We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. Many millions share the belief that nature, beauty and history are for everyone. So we look after the nation’s coastline, historic sites, countryside and green spaces, ensuring everyone benefits.

From wild and precious places to the world outside your window the National Trust offers access, enjoyment and a chance for everyone to help out. Nature and the historic environment are under threat. They’re essential to everyone, they enrich people’s lives and are part of the fabric of society and they urgently need more care.

Nature, beauty, history

With our staff, members, volunteers and supporters, we are the biggest conservation charity in Europe. Everyone can get involved, everyone can make a difference.​

Your support keeps nature and history flourishing. You help us care for:

For everyone, for ever

Our shared places stretch across the nation, from Lizard Point in Cornwall, to Lindisfarne in Northumberland and Florence Court in Northern Ireland.

As well as looking after the places in our care, we work with communities and partners across the nations to protect nature, beauty and history in towns, cities, villages and countryside.