Building conservation

We protect historic buildings and buildings in the wider landscape. Our team works hard to ensure they are preserved for ever, for everyone using traditional conservation techniques

The Vyne rooftop walkway during a £5.4 million restoration project
Simon McCormack, conservation manager, making final adjustments to the newly restored state bed at Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire

Our conservation work  

Caring for hundreds of historic houses and gardens requires constant effort to make sure everything stays in tip top condition. Find out about the latest projects and how you can help to keep your favourite places special forever.

See behind closed doors
A conservator working on an 18th-century torchere

Our conservation principles 

Find out about the six main principles behind our conservation work to understand how and why we protect the properties and landscapes we care for.

Seagulls over Lindisfarne Castle

Safeguarding historic buildings for the future 

Centuries of wind and rain can wreak destruction on our historic properties. With Lindisfarne Castle set to reopen this spring after a huge restoration project, see what goes into keeping these great places standing tall.

Visit the National Trust's Wellington Monument, Somerset

Saving Wellington Monument 

Claiming the title of the tallest three-sided obelisk in the world, Wellington Monument has had a troubled past. Lightning strikes, abandoned building and botched repairs have left it in need of more than a little TLC. Explore our plans to secure its future.

We couldn't do it without you

Thanks to your membership we're able to protect special places for ever, for everyone

Become a member
Conservators Judy Wetherall and Pete Jenkins retouching one of eight gilded sconces in the new Conservation Studio

Faded magnificence: Rescuing Knole and its collections from decay 

Discover more about our work to save Knole in Kent from centuries of damp and decay. Curator Emma Slocombe explores the project as its state-of-the-art Conservation Studio opens to the public.

Find out more
The Stable block roof during the project

9 of our most ambitious conservation projects 

Our special places need a lot of looking after. Read more about nine of our most ambitious conservation and restoration projects.

Read the list
Artist impression of what Seaton Delavall Hall will look like when recreated

Give to our Bring Stories to Life appeal 

Three very special places need your support in 2018. Will you help with donations to transform and revitalise Sutton Hoo, Seaton Delaval Hall and Stowe Gardens? With your support we can bring their stories to life and help visitors experience their true spirit and heritage.

Donate now to our 2018 appeal