Days out & itineraries
A Summer of Celebration
© Aardman Animation Ltd 2012
This summer just got better as we'll be joined by the nation's much-loved duo, Wallace and Gromit at a whole host of tea party events at our places over the Jubilee weekend. From model making and trails to special screenings of our new mini animation featuring the pair, you'll find lots going on during our Summer of Celebration.
My Great British Day Out
© National Trust
On this page you'll find some great ideas for exploring with us. Not your cup of tea? Then take a visit to our Facebook page where we’re giving you the chance to win your ideal Great British Day Out. It could be anything from a romantic meal in a lighthouse to a spooky sleepover with friends in a castle’s ruins - it's up to you.
Footsteps of the stars
Scene from Robin Hood
© Universal Pictures
Explore our map of recent movie locations and you too could find yourself walking in the footsteps of the stars. Whether you're a fan of costume drama or the Harry Potter series, you'll discover that we've been in the background for many blockbusters.
A day outdoors
We've put together some ideas for spending a day outside - grouped by interest. Top picnic spots to fabulous fountains feature will help you make the most of those sunny days.
Places to visit by theme
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Haunted houses
The many old houses, castles and abbeys that we care for are full of things to look at. But at a number of our places you might also get to see a little bit more than you bargained for. Several properties are rumoured to be happy hunting grounds for an assortment of ghost and ghouls. Here are a few of our spooky stories.
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Literary connections
Generations of writers, playwrights and poets found inspiration in the beauty of the places where they lived and worked. We now care for many of these special places so you can discover the inspiration behind the words for yourself.
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The Jane Austen trail
If you're a Jane Austen fan, the names of the settings in her stories are as readily recognisable as those of her characters. Ever wished to take a peek inside 'Netherfield', or admire 'Pemberley' from across the lake? It's easier to follow in the footsteps of Lizzy and Darcy or Elinor and Marianne than you might think.
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Just off the motorway
If you’re out and about in the car and are in need of a break, why not drop in on one of our special places. Lots of our places are near to the main routes but a million miles away from the rush and congestion of the motorways. You'll discover peaceful places where you can enjoy a complete change of pace, see an amazing house in a beautiful setting and even indulge in a slice of...
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Connected with the sea
Many of our places have nautical connections. From Sir Francis Drake's house to hoards of buried treasure, each one tells its own tale of the sea.
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Discover intriguing curiosities
We've unearthed some of our most intriguing curiosities, fascinating stories and unusual objects.
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Life below stairs
Get a taste of what it was like to serve in our greater houses. This is a selection of our houses that allow you to experience life below stairs.
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Mystery and intrigue
Many of our houses and gardens hold secrets ripe for exploring. Whether you are investigating a secret passage, baffled by a maze or intrigued by a resident ghost, you'll soon discover that there is more to us than meets the eye.
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Romantic places
For romantic inspiration at any time of the year, you've come to the right place. With tales of royal newly-weds and historic love affairs, our houses, castles and outdoor places continue to provide the perfect backdrop for love to blossom.
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World Heritage Sites
We believe that all of our places are special. However, we are extremely lucky to care for some places that are internationally recognised as truly exceptional and important World Heritage sites.
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Walk in famous footsteps
From childhood homes to places where they gained their inspiration, many of our houses have connections to famous faces through the ages.