Collections
We care for one of the world's greatest collections of art and historical items. Over a million objects are held at over two hundred historic places.
Caring for our collections
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Books glorious books
The three libraries at Sissinghurst form one of the largest collections of books in any of our places,...
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A world class art collection
Today our lots of our houses serve as galleries for our vast collections of art. Visit one today.
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Discover intriguing curiosities
We've unearthed some of our most intriguing curiosities, fascinating stories and unusual objects.
Treasure hunt
Ever wondered about the story behind the items we have in our collections? Treasure Hunt is a blog written by our collections enthusiast and Registar, Emile de Bruijn, and sheds light on some of our more unusual items.
Tapestry TLC

The water after wash stage of cleaning the tapestries, l-r first clean to last clean.
In 1996 a full survey of the Gideon Tapestries revealed that an estimated £1.7 million was needed to repair, clean and save the unique collection. Find out how our team have been working to save them.
Rare Missal at Lyme

Prayers for the Pope have been crossed out in accordance with Henry VIII's instructions.
Published in 1487 by England's first printer William Caxton, The Lyme Missal is the single most important printed book in any National Trust collection.
Discover a striking portrait at Ickworth

The portrait by Velzáquez is on display at Ickworth, Suffolk.
Ickworth is home to striking works of art, including a particulalry important portrait by Velzáquez.
Collections online
You can now explore 700,000 objects from artistic treasures to the everyday, quirky and bizarre on our new collections site. What will you discover today?
Knowledge bank
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Bibliography & Specialist Collections Guides
Learn more about our collections and where to see them.
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Arts, Buildings & Collections Bulletin
The ABC Bulletin, showcases our latest curatorial and conservation news, projects and expertise.
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Historic Houses & Collections Annual
This annual offers a great insight into a variety of stories and the latest curatorial research.
And a wooden leg...
When you think of National Trust treasures, you probably imagine vases, paintings and furniture, but at Plas Newydd, we have the Marquess of Angelsey's wooden leg.
Make a donation
Preserving historic places is an expensive task. Help us preserve them, for ever for everyone.



