We will do everything we can to help make your visits to our properties enjoyable. However, please be aware of the following points before setting out on a visit:

Check opening times

Opening times and days vary considerably between properties, so please read the relevant information carefully or telephone the property in advance to be sure. The National Trust reserves the right to amend opening arrangements at any time, should this prove necessary.

Member entry

Members are admitted free to our properties during normal opening times and under normal opening arrangements, but in certain cases (for example when a special event is being held) may be charged for entry. If in doubt, please telephone the property to check.

Please also note that at some busy properties, entry for all visitors (including Trust members) is by timed ticket and you may have to wait before being admitted. For more information on timed tickets, see 'Busy properties' under 'Making the most of your visit'.

General advice

Finally, we ask you to respect the following advice relating to historic houses in order to protect the fragile and beautiful places you have come to see:

• Sharp heels and ridged soles can damage delicate floors and so are not permitted.

• Photography of interiors is not allowed.

• Trust houses, restaurants and shops are all non-smoking areas.

• Visitors with large bags may be asked to leave them at the entrance to a house as they can damage wall surfaces and obstruct access; for information on back-carriers and push-chairs, see information for families.

• All dogs are welcome at most of our countryside properties, provided they are under strict control, but only assistance dogs are allowed in Trust houses, restaurants and gardens. Find out more about visiting properties with your dog.

• Although opening times and arrangements vary considerably from place to place and from year to year, most houses will be open during the period mid-March to early November, usually on three or more days per week between about noon and 5pm. Please note that, unless otherwise stated in the property entry, last admission is 30 minutes before the stated closing time.

• We make every effort to ensure that property opening times and available facilities are as published, but very occasionally it is essential to change these at short notice. Please telephone in advance for confirmation. You may also check information by searching for a property on this website.

• When telephoning a property, please remember that we can provide a better service if you call on a weekday morning, on a day when the property is open.