2009 Working Holidays to conserve coast, countryside, historic houses and gardens.

If you fancy a holiday with a difference, a life-enhancing experience where you can meet new friends, feel part of something worthwhile and get the most for your budget, then a National Trust working holiday is for you. Around 400 holidays across England, Wales and Northern Ireland offer the chance to help with the conservation of wildlife, coast, countryside, historic houses and gardens.

© National Trust

For some it’s the appeal of learning a new skill or indulging a passion, for others it’s just a great way to have fun. There is plenty to tempt all age groups, with a wide range of activities from cataloguing of Minton tiles, or cleaning a beach, to tending a kitchen garden, or counting goats. From a weekend break to a two-week holiday, prices start at just £50.

This year sees the introduction of special interest themed holidays focusing on digital photography and seasonal food, alongside perennial favourites such as dry stone walling, hedge-laying and countryside maintenance. There is the return of the ever-popular ‘Active’ holidays, with activities such as surfing, riding or sailing, plus a choice of holidays for the whole family. And if you choose a holiday with a ‘Green Living’ logo, you can take part in special tours and talks on enjoying a ‘greener’ way of life.

© National Trust

Here is a taste of what’s new in 2009:

• Assist with cleaning the famous vintage carriages in the collection at Arlington Court in Devon…and even drive one yourself.
• Learn the skills of digital photography as part of a countryside conservation holiday in the Lake District, Surrey, Northumberland or Wales
• Join in with picking and displaying many varieties of apple for the annual ‘Apple’ Day’ at Gunby Hall in Lincolnshire.
• Indulge a DIY passion with paintbrush, roller or sewing machine to give the holiday centre a makeover on the Stackpole Estate in Pembrokeshire.
• Help with the sorting and storing of books, natural history specimens and textiles at Lanhydrock in Cornwall.
• Forage for food and learn about seasonal produce on a conservation holiday at Attingham Park in Shropshire.
• Restore the famous Pinetum and its 19th century conifers to their former glory at Stourhead in Wiltshire.
• Holiday as a family, helping to clear habitats for wildlife in Nottinghamshire and Wales.

People from all walks of life have enjoyed working holidays, from doctors to bus drivers, advertising executives to chefs...many make lasting friendships or have met their future partners, and some have been inspired to change careers as a result.

Call the booking office on 0844 800 3099 or take a look at our Working Holiday pages for more information.