Collection highlights at our places
Want to delve into the objects and works of art in the houses and world-class collections we care for? Browse all our collections content in one place.
Discover the manor and collections at Wightwick
Explore a home full of Pre-Raphaelite art and William Morris interiors, lovingly collected by Sir Geoffrey and Rosalie, Lady Mander.
Talks and tours at Petworth
Learn more about how the history of Petworth has been shaped over time with our weekly programme of talks and tours running every weekday from 18 March.
Style takes centre stage at Knole
Fashion students from West Kent College organised an exciting fashion evening at Knole to showcase their creations.
Croome exhibitions and collection
Come and see what you can experience in the Court at Croome. Our collection is returning and we are developing innovative ways to display select pieces.
The leg that saw the world
Discover more about all that remains of the figure head of the HMS Centurion.
Trelissick house - behind the facade
Discover the family home behind the impressive exterior of Trelissick house. Volunteers and exhibitions immerse you in its fascinating past and the lives of those who resided here.
An unpretentious family home
Lanhydrock house is a Jacobean mansion that became a happy family home.
The Collections at Belton
The highlights of Belton’s collections lie in four areas; late 17th century English portraiture, silver, oriental ceramics, and books.
Eight objects to look out for on your visit
Petworth is more than just a gallery of paintings and is also home to a vast collection of sculpture, furniture and extraordinary objects. Take a look at our top picks that are not to be missed.
Lord Fairhaven's House
Lord Fairhaven bought Anglesey Abbey in 1926 and gifted it to the National Trust upon his death in 1966. Immerse yourself in his luxurious lifestyle as you step inside the House packed with antiques, paintings, silverware and clocks.
The house at Trerice
An Elizabethan manor with rooms that take you on a journey through history.
Special exhibitions at Waddesdon 2017
Learn more about Waddesdon, its collections and the people who lived and worked here through our special exhibitions.
Dudmaston Hall
Dudmaston Hall remains today what it has been for 875 years. A much loved and lived-in family home.
Back to its best: The Tack Room at The Argory
Tired, damp and far from looking its best, the challenge was on to restore the Tack Room at The Argory to its former glory in time for the start of the new season.
Caring for our collection
With more than 2000 items to care for, our team of Conservation Assistants and dedicated volunteers work hard for our Accredited Museum status.
Churchill's life in objects
Learn how the items we hope to acquire with our appeal tell the life story of Churchill, and why it is vital we keep them at Chartwell for ever.
Top ten things to see in Treasurer's House
Explore the house and discover our model of a Napoleonic gunship, Indian ivory games table and Verre Eglomisé mirror among many other highlights of our collection.
Discover the house at Greys Court
Explore a house described as 'a haven of peace and quietness for those in need' at Greys Court.
House and collection at Erddig
Explore life above and below stairs in a unique family home that's captured the way of life of a bustling household during the early years of the last century.
The Castle
Once a stark medieval fortress built by Welsh Princes, under the Herberts, Powis Castle became a luxurious family home. Visit us to explore thousands of fascinating objects and hear the amazing stories behind them.
Toilets with a story to tell
Apparently we spend three years of our lives sitting on the loo. Discover some of the toilets at our places that reveal an unusual perspective on history.
House at Basildon Park
Explore Basildon Park, a stunning Georgian mansion surrounded by parkland. Once the home of Lord and Lady Iliffe, it played host to many glamourous parties in the 1950s.
A trail for grown ups
Why should kids have all the fun? Pick up a family fortunes trail at the house and find out which of the Parker family you are most like.
Nostell's missing Etruscan vases
Learn the story of Nostell's missing Etruscan vases.
Inspirational symbol of courage
The lion statue sits at the top of the stairs at Chartwell, given to Churchill as part of the Luxembourg Freedom Award in 1946.
A symbol of a lifelong passion
Churchill discovered his passion for painting relatively late, at the age of 40. His miniature paintbox is one of the items we hope to secure for future generations.
Closer to home... The Herveys and the House
Find out more about the Herveys and how the house was affected in the Great War.
Discovering early Chinese wallpaper at Saltram
Skilled paper hanging in Saltram's Chinese dressing room has turned two Chinese prints into a seamless collage.
The shell collection
Find out how over 3000 shells washed up at Arlington
Returning historic collection
A unique approach has been taken to display the returning historic collection to the house. Historical objects from the 6th Earl of Coventry’s collection will be returning with some key pieces, absent from the house for over 70 years.
Clandon Park one year on: from caravan to conservation and beyond
Following an immensely challenging year of hard work, we’ve made huge strides on the Clandon Park project. Find out more about the situation we found ourselves in during the early days, the strides we’ve made since April 2015, and our hopes for the future of the house and collection.
Family, Friendship and Duty
During the 1930s, Belton was a shining example of glamorous high society.
A trip through sporting history
With the Olympics approaching and a new season of sport about to begin, we have selected a group of objects that explore the relationship between sport and artistic production.
Five highlights from the carriage museum
From the poshest to the smallest, discover five highlights of the carriage museum.
Tales of Beatrix Potter at Melford Hall
Discover the family connection between the Hyde Parker and Beatrix Potter.
Discover something new in the Midlands
As spring returns we've lots of new exhibitions, trails and galleries for you to enjoy at the places in our care
Dismantling the Spangled Bed
The glorious, 400-year-old Spangled Bed has now been taken apart so that it can be sent away for conservation.
What makes Trengwainton so special
Trengwainton was given to the National Trust because of the significance of its plant collection. The garden contains rare plant specimens from around the world, including some rhododendron hybrids that are unique to this collection.
Top 10 things to see at Mr Straw's House
The Mr Straw's House volunteers have voted for their top 10 things they think share the story of the Straw Family the best. Don't forget to keep your eyes out for them as you head around the house and see how many you can find.
Things to see and do at George Stephenson's Birthplace
Enjoy a riverside walk or a family cycle ride along the wagon way before stopping for a bite to eat at our café. Or discover the tiny room in which George Stephenson guided by our costumed interpreters.
An enormous cot comes to Stoneywell... almost
The replica Gimson cot nearly didn't make it to Stoneywell at all.
Things to see and do at Gawthorpe Hall
You'll find a wealth of things to see and do at Gawthorpe Hall.
Commemorating the First World War Centenary at Gunby Hall
Find out about two past residents of Gunby Hall who fought in and survived the First World War.
Knole's award-winning education programme
In being awarded the prestigious Sandford Award, run by the Heritage Education Trust, Knole's schools' learning programmes and activities have been recognised four times, for their quality and excellence
The art of the triptych at our places
A triptych is a work of art divided into three sections. These three-fold objects range from monumental altarpieces to private devotional objects. From Bosch to the Pre-Raphaelites, discover the beautiful examples on show at our places.
Discover the Gatehouse Tower at Knole
Climb the spiral staircase for panoramic views over the medieval parkland. Explore the rooms once home to Eddy Sackville-West as you go. His music records, gramophone and visitor book bring to life his time at Knole.
House and Collections
Built for Sir John Brownlow in the 1680s, the mansion has all the design features of a classic country house. Inside, the wealth of the Belton estate is immediately apparent, with grand display rooms and impressive collections of porcelain, silver, paintings and books.
The Pre-Raphaelite art collection at Wightwick
How Wightwick Manor came to be the home of an impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite art.
Conserving the Library Lunette
As soon as you walk into the Library, you can’t help but stare in wonder at this work of art.
Objects from our Beatrix Potter collection
The collection we care for at Hill Top and the Gallery, left to us by Beatrix Potter, totals over 1433 objects in the house and over 2200 works on paper. It's range gives us a glimpse inside Beatrix Potter's magpie mind.
Exploring our archive at Scotney Castle
Find out more information about how we are exploring our archive and why this is important to us.
Rare Coromandel screen now on display at Basildon Park
For the first time in Basildon Park’s history, you can see the Chinese lacquerware Coromandel screen on display in the bamboo dressing room.
John Singer Sargent and the Palmer family at Ightham Mote
In February of this year John Singer Sargent's enigmatic portrait of Elsie Palmer returned for temporary display at Ightham Mote. Discover the fascinating connections between Sargent, the Aesthetics Movement and the medieval manor house of Ightham Mote where Elsie's portrait was painted over 125 years ago.
Ceramic highlights from our collections
Our ceramics collection is vast. Discover some of our highlights including an early Ming dish that once formed part of a Mughal treasury, an exquisite Japanese porcelain bowl that is also a rare relic of the Stuart court in exile and a beautifully painted dish signed by a Renaissance master.
Clandon Park project update June 2017
Paul Cook, Project Director, tells us about the latest progress on the Clandon Park project to date.
Combine a visit to Hatchlands Park and Watts Gallery - Artists' Village
We’ve teamed up with award winning Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village, to provide a perfect day out for groups. We think that the combination of these two fascinating places will provide a varied and fulfilling experience that will fill a full day.
The future vision for Chartwell
In commemoration of 50 years since Chartwell was opened to the public in 2016, we are inspiring a new generation to engage with Churchill's history, in his much-loved family home.
Keeping Churchill at Chartwell
It's 50 years since Chartwell was opened to the public. We're using this anniversary focus to reach the appeal target and ensure Churchill’s story resonates with future generations.
The Workhouse in 20 objects winner: child's shoe
Did this object get your vote?
Coming home to Croome
Come and see select pieces from our collection returned after years of being away from its home.
Inside Dyrham house
The 300-year-old house is full of Dutch-inspired delights, by stepping inside you can find out more about former owner William Blathwayt.
History of Dyrham Park
Dyrham Park is an ancient deer park, which, in the 17th Century, saw the creation of an impressive mansion house and garden.
Explore indoors at Eyam
Thanks to the help of our wonderful volunteers, there are new areas of the Hall to be explored this season. Peer down an 11 foot well in the wash house, or join us in the banquet house for some delicious flummery.
Discover the internationally significant collection at Hardwick
Discover the internationally renowned collection at Hardwick, including the famous Gideon tapestries, Noble Women embroideries and fine collections of painting and portraits.
Looking after Mr Straw's House
Looking after Mr Straw's House is no small undertaking with over 30,000 items to care for. Learn a little more about the work we undertake, past projects and even how you can help us with our conservation work.
Things to see and do at Farnborough Hall
Relax in the atmosphere of an 18th-century family home in the country. Take a stroll around landscaped parkland and formal gardens.
If clothes could talk...
Why were Marie Antoinette’s garters designed by a dentist? Why was a 19th-century baronet determined to make a coat in a day? And why did dressmakers painstakingly sew jewel beetles’ wings onto a costume for Lady Macbeth?
The Great Store
Admire Knole's precious collection of furniture and paintings up close in the Great Store, open 5 March – 30 October.
Uncover the treasures at Tredegar House this Autumn
This Autumn we’re inviting you to step behind closed doors and delve a little deeper into some of the most unique and fascinating pieces of our quirky collection at Tredegar House.
Behind the closed doors
Come along on Sunday 2, 9 and 16 October at 2pm for our conservation talks and find out what goes on behind closed doors. Learn about how we look after the historic collection in the house and in particular how we care for the wonderful array of furniture, textiles and books.
The art of crafting a homely retreat
Unique handcrafted furniture provides the scene for childhood adventure and imagination, telling family stories amid the nationally significant Arts and Crafts Movement.
Medallion for best cow in show
Be honest - did you expect Churchill to own a prize for best dairy shorthorn cow in show? A truly unique medallion in his cabinet at Chartwell; read on to discover more about Churchill's unusual animal collection.
Things to see and do at Alfriston Clergy House
Alfriston Clergy House was the first building to be saved by the National Trust. Uncover the treasures of this 650 year old house set in a stunning cottage garden and see what made it catch Octavia Hill's eye.
Inside Snowshill Manor
Bought in 1919 by Charles Wade, he restored and renovated it for just one purpose: to house his wonderful and wondrous collection, which was his lifelong passion and joy.
First World War at Attingham
Discover the close links between Attingham Park and the First World War and see what you could experience on your visit.
Researching the forgotten past
Discover more about the story behind Ickworth and the Great War exhibition and what happened next.
A timeline of carriages
Trot through four hundred years of carriage evolution with this timeline
Caring for the Collection
What do we get up to during the winter months? Conservation carries on!
Ellen Terry's costumes at Smallhythe Place
Smallhythe Place houses an extensive collection of costumes worn by Ellen Terry throughout her lifelong career in theatre. Click here to discover more about her elaborate garments.
The Argory's remarkable cabinet barrel organ
The Argory's splendidly crowed rooms impress with their rich furnishings: polished brass, crimson velvets and damasks, all give the impression of solid comfort and an appreciation of fine things.
Travel the world within a single house
Saltram’s global collections will take you on a voyage of discovery. Opening Saturday 7th May.
Plas yn Rhiw house and collections
Plas yn Rhiw has had its fair share of tenants throughout the years, all leaving their mark on this 19th century house; discover what treasures were left behind.
Out in the open
Make the most of your visit in June with a special treat from the House Team indoors and nature at its best outdoors.
The Antiques Roadshow comes to Baddesley Clinton
Join us at Baddesley for the Antiques Roadshow on Wednesday 8 June.
Hidden treasure revealed at Clandon Park
Stored under the State Bed were several collection boxes. One contained the only needlework to have survived the fire, protected by a sodden horse hair mattress. Find out how it endured a trial by fire and water and see our Project Conservator Samantha Taylor peel back its protective cover for the first time.
Rescuing the State Bed from Clandon Park
The State Bed was one of the most important items in our collection, an iconic object emblematic of the Onslow family and of Clandon Park itself. Our project curator Sophie Chessum discusses this incredible survival story and charts our journey to rescue the bed from the house.
Family friendly fun at the carriage museum
Explore our family friendly activities available at the carriage museum every day.
Hidden treasures of Hinton Ampner
Discover the lost treasures found in the attics at Hinton Ampner. Hidden in the attics for 30 years, most of these items have never been on display before. From the key to the original haunted Tudor house at Hinton Ampner to an exquisite folio of grand tour drawings, join us as we peel back the layers of hidden history.
Things to see and do
From meeting the animals to venturing indoors to admire Thomas Bewick's original collection, this little beauty has plenty on offer. Take a seat outdoors and enjoy a picnic, see a printing demonstration, release your inner Bear Grylls or visit the bees at the hives.
Taking down the tapestries
The splendid tapestries in the Spangled Bedroom at Knole have been cleaned and sent away for conservation.
Discover the hidden delights of Charlecote Park
Our room guides point out the fascinating pieces that you won't want to miss while looking round the house at Charlecote.
Indoor places to hunt for fossils
Did you know you can hunt for fossils indoors? Many of our places have collections of them, and if you keep your eyes open you never know what you might see.
History of the Blickling estate
Mentioned in the Domesday Book, the estate was the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, and during World War Two RAF air crew were billeted here, while its owner, Lord Lothian, influenced Churchill’s actions.
Places to explore at East Riddlesden Hall
Discover our collection of furniture, textiles and pewter, take in the scents of our herb border and enjoy a stroll along our Riverside Walk.
The Pamela Ward collection
As an antiques collector living in London during the last century Pamela Ward amassed an eclectic collection of over five thousand artifacts of 'little things she liked'.
Success in search for Melford Hall’s lost owner
Discover the story of a portrait fallen foul to mistaken identity. Thought to be the 17th-century Archbishop of York the subject was an entirely different great from our past.
Kedleston Hall; a show palace built to impress
Delve into the history of the house as a place for guests and visitors to admire lavish collections of art and furniture.
Wrap up or Snuggle Up at Oxburgh this October
Whether its taking in the cool air for a colourful autumn walk around the estate, enjoying traditional harvest time activities, half term Halloween pumpkin fun, or getting indoors to discover the beautiful Victorian library and King's Room tapestries, Oxburgh is the place to go this autumn.
Gold, copper and brass collection highlights
Brass, gold and copper have been part of some of recent trends in interior design and serve as inspiration for some of the latest styles. In our collection there are some beautiful, ornate and fascinating items that are made from these metals.
Our latest acquisitions
The collections at our places are always growing as additional items come into our care. See what new treasures are on display near you.
A taste of Italy and Regency splendour in Shropshire
Extravagent spending in the wild Regency age, financial ruin, and astute purchases with an Italian theme is the focus for Attingham's collection.
A trove of timely treasures
Delve deeper into Stoneywell's collection as we share our object of the month.
The Phelips family home
'The most beautiful Elizabethan house in England'
A closer look at the collection at Treasurer’s House
Take a look at Treasurer’s House with this series of short videos from the curator to hear some of the fascinating stories that lie behind the collection of furniture and antiques.
Art and collections resources
Our many research publications and guides provide lots more detailed information on our collections.
The armorial dinner service
When circumnavigating the world, George Anson was gifted an armorial dinner service for assisting in saving a city from burning.
Explore Wimpole Hall
Marvel at the architecture of the largest country house in Cambridgeshire. See the spectacular Yellow Drawing Room and unusual plunge bath plus a fascinating glimpse of life below stairs.
A house to make the spirits soar
Montacute House is part of the Somerset landscape.
The portraits at Knole
The Knole collection includes more than 300 paintings by 17th and 18th century masters, many commissioned and collected by Sir John Frederick Sackville, the 3rd Duke of Dorset.
Introducing our remarkable collections
We care for one of the world’s largest art and heritage collections. With close to one million objects at over 200 historic places, a surprise discovery awaits you around every corner.
The silver treasures of Ickworth
A symbol of wealth, power and fashion, discover the stories of the one of the most important collections of 18th-century silver in Europe.
Around the world with the Chichesters exhibition
Journey with Sir Francis on his trip around the globe
Visit the house at Hatchlands
Between April and October you can explore six beautifully restored rooms, see some of Robert Adam’s earliest work, plus wonderful collections of paintings and musical instruments brought together by our tenant Alec Cobbe.
What's new at Hill Top this year
Sometimes a change is better than a rest for Hill Top.
Community and off-site learning
Our new outreach programme offers a unique experience to bring Knole to you, with visits to schools, care homes and local community groups. Find out about our outreach sessions and loan boxes, which range from prehistory to World Wars and reminiscence.
The Hall at Felbrigg
How many times can you spot the lion and fetterlock motif as you uncover the history, unique collections and decoration of the many rooms within our hall?
Remembering Henry James – life at Lamb House
To commemorate the centenary of the death of Henry James, creative digital media graduate Hannah Shaw created a digital story which playfully explores the author’s love of Lamb House which will be available to see in the property later this year. It all began in 1895, when the author spotted, by accident, a watercolour painting by his friend Edward Warren.
Open all year round - making the most of your visit
Find out when the roses bloom and the house sparkles
The collection at Wimpole
It's not just the pictures and furniture you see in the house, we have numerous goods and chattels in our collection.
Revealing Knole’s roofscape
The unveiling of the new roof of Knole’s conservation studio marked a major milestone in the ambitious building project.
Between naturalism and fantasy: the art of Beatrix Potter
We house the single largest collection of Beatrix Potter's published illustrations, as well as a treasure trove of letters, photographs, unpublished drawings and manuscripts. What do her works reveal about her commitment to scientific accuracy and imaginative exploration?
Collecting the Grand Tour: Treasures of the Ford Collection
A remarkable exhibition of artwork that illuminates a collector’s interest in the Grand Tour is now on display at Basildon Park.
A closer look at the Cabinet of Curiosities
In 2016 the conservation team were hard at work up in the Cabinet of Curiosities, cleaning and checking all the weird and wonderful objects on display, this year work will continue with our other collections.
Discover the hall at Hardwick
Explore the house that Bess built in the 16th century and find beautiful Elizabethan tapestries.
Romance in our collections
Discover tales of love and romance in our collections, from sculptures of doomed lovers and paintings of romantic ruins to portraits of unconventional relationships that shocked and challenged societal norms.
Canons Ashby conserved
During our special winter opening you can discover the secrets to caring for Canons Ashby
Churchill's highest literary honour
Churchill was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 in recognition of his writing and commanding speeches. With your help, we can keep them at Chartwell, where they belong.
Uncovering the secrets of our furniture collection
We're embarking upon a research project to catalogue thousands of pieces of furniture in our collections. We've made some exciting discoveries whilst adding to the existing knowledge of our most treasured items.
Fundraise to keep Churchill at Chartwell
Help us to reinvigorate Churchill's legacy at Chartwell by raising money towards our £7.1m appeal. We've got a few Churchill-inspired fundraising ideas to get you started, so why not get the friends together for an evening of entertainment all in aid of a good cause?
Delve into the collection at Powis Castle
With an amazing collection of paintings, sculpture, furniture and tapestries, you might be surprised at what you find at Powis. Every item has an intriguing story to tell.
Kate Malone: Inspired by Waddesdon
See beautiful pottery created by Kate Malone, one of the UK's leading ceramicists. She's drawn her inspiration from the gardens, collections and archive here at Waddesdon.
Treasures of our collection
When a family lives in the same place for 400 years they gather a diverse collection of art, furniture and curiosities.
The Myddelton family home
Discover how from 1595 the fortress was turned into the Myddelton's elegant family home - with lavishly furnished rooms which reflect 400 years of changing taste.
The Textile Conservation Studio
The Textile Conservation Studio is the National Trust’s only in house conservation treatment facility. The National Specialist Textile Conservation Adviser is based at the Studio, working with a team of professionally trained and accredited conservators.
The history of Treasurer's House
Discover a house with a 2,000 year history including an allegedly haunted cellar - come and visit if you're feeling brave.
The Castle at Lindisfarne
Protected by the elements, our castle is inaccessible twice a day at high tide but then you reach us we're worth it. Dressed with period items, home to a wind indicator and an abundance of wildlife, come and discover us.
House Steward's collection highlights
Find out what our House Steward thinks are some of the top objects to spot around the house.
Discover the house
Make the most of your tour around the house with our list of must-see highlights.
The great collection hunt 29 April 2016
This week on the house team blog, Helen talks about one of the year's biggest conservation tasks - checking through the inventory to make sure everything's in line.
The Chapel of St Cuthbert on Inner Farne
St Cuthbert spent over 10 years living as a hermit on Inner Farne having moved to the island in 676 and died here in 687. He was buried on nearby Lindisfarne. The present complex of buildings occupies the site of Cuthbert's original cell.
A Golden Opportunity: Gilding at Knole
Staff and volunteers have been learning the ancient craft of gilding, in a pop up conservation studio at Knole.
Pie connections in our collections
Our collections house many interesting and unusual items. Here are a few around the theme of the great British pie.
The museum at Overbeck's
Take a tour of the museum at Overbeck's and discover some of the weird and wonderful objects on display.
Old Masters on display at Hatchlands Park
Glimpse some of the highlights from the Cobbe Collection of paintings on display throughout the house at Hatchlands Park. This group of Old Master Works was brought together in the 18th century and the collection continues to grow.
Discover the hall and collections at Eyam
Learn more about this historic family home and some of the special items you can find on your visit.
Top ten things to see at Greyfriars House and Garden
Local items can tell a story about a house, its people, history and traditions. Here are the top local items at Greyfriars House and Garden but there are many more to discover.
Knole replaces a room with a photograph...
What's so special about Knole's Reynolds Room project? And why would anyone replace a room with a photo, however big?
Behind closed doors at Knole
Though we don’t allow visitors inside the Showrooms over winter, our hardy conservation team stay incredibly busy all season.
Discover the collection at our Textile Conservation Studio
We've a vast collection of textiles and many people with a wealth of knowledge on the subject. Learn from them as they tell you more about our collection.
Paycocke's: the house
Take a journey back through time with the rooms of our impressive Tudor building.
Art at Dudmaston
Experience the contrast of Modern Art in a traditional country setting.
History of Cragside
Three influential people helped to create the special place we know and love today. Learn more about them and their combined vision.
Peter Lely's Penitent Magdalen emerges from the shadows
Recent conservation work on The Penitent Magdalen by Sir Peter Lely at Kingston Lacy has revealed the fine quality of this rare picture.
Loans to exhibitions
Each year we lend dozens of items from our collections to external exhibitions. You might be surprised to find out where our objects travel to.
Planning your educational visit to Knole
All the information you need to plan and get the most from your educational visit at Knole.
The return of the Coventry collection to Croome
This year, the historic collection of the Earls of Coventry has returned to Croome after 70 years. Lead Curator Jane Gallagher recounts Croome's reversal of fortune - a tale of loss, hardship and survival.
The collection at Beningbrough Hall
Get hands on in the interactive gallery, view the collection of 18th-century portraits on permanent loan from the National Portrait Gallery and appreciate the Italian inspired architecture on your visit.
Paintings of our places
We look after many thousands of landscape paintings and have nearly 400 that depict specific places in our care. See a small selection of these here.
Introducing Peter and Rebecca at Standen
Peter Thwaites and Rebecca Aird have run one of the few remaining British artisan studios, Rapture & Wright, since 2004. They design and handprint their own range of fabrics and wallpapers by adapting age old techniques in clever ways.
Exhibition at Sutton Hoo
From the 1,400-year-old buried Anglo-Saxon ship to a display of replica treasures, discover our exhibitions.
Learning through art at Beningbrough
In the making faces programme, a picture paints a thousand words and in this session school children use the National Portrait Gallery collection to become portrait detectives and shed light on some surprising stories behind the art.
Inside Nunnington Hall
Discover the baby house, Oak Hall and Drawing Room on your visit to our special place.
The Workhouse in 20 objects winner: birth and death register
Visitors' choice winner round two
A time of change at Knole
Some areas of Knole are currently closed for building and conservation work, while several exciting new spaces will open this year. Find out what to expect from your visit today.
Join us as a showroom guide
There's more to being a Knole showroom volunteer than meets the eye. As well as meeting and helping visitors, our volunteers enjoy a lively social scene, with study hours on a variety of topics, winter lectures, outings and meals on a regular basis.
The Knole Conservation Studio
Peek into the store of our conservation studio to spot priceless treasures waiting to be conserved. From Wednesday to Saturday, join our conservators in the studio itself and get hands on at the interactive displays. Find out more and plan your visit…
New beginnings: The story of the National Trust at Mompesson House
This year's exhibition celebrates the 40th anniversary of Mompesson opening to visitors. Here's a preview of what you can see.
Shakespeare at Petworth
Celebrate one of the world’s greatest playwrights at Petworth. The extraordinary art collection, the finest in the National Trust’s care, contains several examples of artists interpreting Shakespeare’s works.
Showrooms at Knole
Towering paintings and glinting furniture - many from the royal palaces of the 17th century - make it easy to see why tourists have flocked to Knole for 400 years. Five of our showrooms are open, whilst work continues elsewhere.
A taste for the new: 19th-century sculpture at Cliveden
2017 sees the installation of ten works of contemporary sculpture around the Cliveden Estate by the French conceptualist artist, Bernar Venet (b. 1941). To celebrate this outstanding display of contemporary art, we are casting new light on our 19th-century sculpture collection in the gardens. Curator Oonagh Kennedy uncovers the 'new' art of Cliveden's past.
The house and collections at Waddesdon Manor
Discover Waddesdon Manor's dramatic architecture, grand rooms and imagine staying here as a guest.
The Goodhart collection
View the exquisite Goodhart sampler collection.
From abbey to country home
Lacock Abbey is a country house with monastic roots and Britain's birthplace of photography.
Pewter collection with a connection to Wimbledon
What's the connection between a pewter plate at Arlington Court and the Wimbledon Ladie's trophy?
Discover Arlington house and collections
See what you'll find at Arlington Court.
The top 10 appeal objects
With our appeal so far we have acquired over 1,000 individual items that belonged to Sir Winston Churchill at Chartwelll. We still need your support though to secure the final objects in our appeal, including Churchill's Nobel Prize for Literature.
Textile collection: the Gideon tapestries
Hardwick is renowned for its textiles, including an extensive collection of tapestries. Find out more about the latest Gideon tapestry and it's return from conservation.
Ladies of Llanerchaeron
Llanerchaeron owes its survival, as an intact Nash estate, largely due to the role and actions of certain women who made the estate their home.
School outreach visits from Knole
Knole’s learning team are pleased to offer a new outreach programme to primary and secondary schools around Kent. These engaging sessions and multi-sensory handling collections span a range of topics, from the Stone Age to World War Two.
Looking after the house and collections at Ightham Mote
With 700 years of history to protect, our conservation team work hard to care for the house and collections. This work is usually carried out behind the scenes, to ensure your enjoy your visit.
The Geler Jones Collection
Located just off the farm yard, the Geler Jones collection is a treasure trove of early 20th century agricultural and domestic machinery.
The sights and sounds of spring at Ickworth
Unleash your inner explorer when you come and spend the Easter holidays with us. So much to do at Ickworth, you'll want to come and explore again and again...
Portrait of Sir William Croft returns to Croft Castle
Find out all about the Trust's acquisition of this significant portrait.
Conserving the library
Our book collection is one of the biggest and most important in the National Trust. Over the next five years we're working on a huge project to preserve these precious treasures forever.
Children’s Book Festival at Knole
Calling all book-lovers for a fun-filled family weekend! Knole will host the Children’s Book Festival on 25-26 March 2017.
The Cobbe Collection at Hatchlands Park
This incredible collection of over 40 keyboard instruments is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Discover a few of the collection highlights, owned or played by some of history's greatest composers. A must see for music lovers.
Great houses in Wales
From eccentric aristocrats to tales of love and loss painted on to walls, our magnificent mansions and their collections bring history and stories to life. Explore the fine country houses of Erddig, Llanerchaeron and Plas Newydd.
Conserving the collections at Gunby Hall
Our housekeeping team at Gunby Hall work hard to look after thousands of objects on display and in store. Take a look at how they preserve the collection.
Rembrandt or Lievens?
The attribution of the painting 'A Magus at a Table' has been the source of much debate over the years. Can advances in scientific analysis settle the matter once and for all?
The collection at Elizabethan House Museum
Antique furniture dating as far back as the 1500s, an impressive art collection on display around the house, and more everyday items - discover the riches in store in the museum’s collection.
Behind the scenes in our conservation store
Find out what our house conservation team do as we throw open our collections store.
A Closer Look: Spotlight on French Royal Furniture by Riesener
Curators Ulrich Leben and Emily Roy take you on an incredible journey into the world of Jean-Henri Riesener, renowned court cabinetmaker.
Explore the archive of Quarry Bank
There are lots of weird and wonderful items on show at Quarry Bank, but did you know that there are thousands more behind closed doors? Our Collections and Archive team are working to make more of the objects available for you to see online and in person.
Europe & us in 99 historic objects
In this year when our political relationship with the continent has been so hotly debated, we have put together a selection of items from our vast collections that help examine our nation’s rich and ancient cultural connections to our neighbours. Every weekday we’ll be highlighting a new item to discover what story it has to tell.
'Happily Ever After?' exhibition 2016
Discover the dangers of growing up in a Victorian home.
Hidden House Tours
Discover the secrets of Lord Fairhaven's collection on our Hidden House Tours this autumn. This is a unique chance to handle and view items of the collection not normally seen on public display.
In profile: our curator's top five items
Each item in the collections at Chartwell tells us something different about Churchill. There's everything from his hairbrush to the House of Commons book. Curator Neil Walters highlights his pick of Churchill's personal belongings of Churchill's that we hope to keep at Chartwell.
Unusual medallions
Alongside the many objects which reflect Churchill the statesmen, there are also many that reflect his personal accomplishments and achievements, such as this tale of two medallions.
Salvage stories: found objects from Clandon Park
Our archaeological salvage work in the house has now drawn to a close and we’ve found a number of remarkable items that survived the fire. Some are damaged, some are miraculously preserved, each has a unique story to tell.
For King and country
Discover more about the men who worked on the estate and fought for their country.
Clandon Park: the house you knew before the fire
Clandon Park was one of the country’s most complete examples of a Palladian mansion, built for the Onslow family in the 1720s. Given to us in 1956, the house showcased a superb collection of 18th century furniture, porcelain and textiles. Here you can catch a glimpse of how Clandon looked before the fire in April 2015.
Things to see and do at Overbeck's
Which pathway will you choose to explore? Just one of the many that will lead you to discover a garden more reminiscent of the tropics than Devon.
The style and belongings of the Keating sisters
The Keating sisters’ personality shines through the whole house, it’s as they never left. Learn about the sisters’ individual style and vision as elements of their past flourishes the house.
House highlights
Discover the five top curiosities at Canons Ashby house.
The house and collections at Nostell Priory
From a fine collection of Chippendale furniture to 18th-century interiors our special place has many tales to tell. Discover them on your visit.
The wonderful Webbs of Wightwick
Read the story of how Wightwick Manor acquired 4 beautiful beasts
Textile conservation on the State Bed at Clandon
Since rescuing the State Bed at Clandon, we've been letting individual elements naturally air dry. Now we've been able to begin the delicate cleaning process on these grandly embellished textiles.
Inside the furnace: ceramic survivals at Clandon Park
Samantha Taylor, our project conservator, explains more about the processing of collection objects taking place at Clandon Park. She describes the effects of extreme temperatures on ceramics, how we keep track of every fragment and the techniques we're using to clean and reinstate items.
Learn more about Treasurer's House's Edwardian owner
Our special place was donated to the National Trust in 1930 by Wakefield industrialist, Frank Green.
Spotlight on Erddig's collection
Erddig has the second largest collection of items in the whole of the National Trust. With a total of 30,000 to care for, it's no mean feat for the house team of conservators and volunteers. We’re an accredited museum too.
Highlights of the collections at Packwood House
There are lots of beautiful items in our extensive collection, including fine tapestries. Take a look at what you could admire on your visit to Packwood House.
Antiques Roadshow at Hanbury Hall
Catch Hanbury Hall on the Antiques Roadshow this Sunday at 8pm.
Sackville leopards on the loose
The striking carved leopards from the Great Staircase at Knole have been removed during conservation work.
Captivating collections in the capital
Take a look at some of our collections of porcelain, musical instruments, furniture, art and more with this group itinerary for London.
Explore Edwardian Kedleston Hall
Get a taste of what life at Kedleston would have been like in the early 20th century
One Lady's legacy and love at Dudmaston
Lady Labouchere remained focused on saving Dudmaston Estate even with a busy life led worldwide as a Diplomat's wife. We're continuing their vision for the house and gardens today.
Bryan Saunders: his life and work
Take a closer look at the life and work of a Coggeshall craftsman, master wood carver Bryan Saunders, with the re-creation of his workshop in the barn, complete with all of his tools and plans.
Exquisite collections in Wales
From palatial buildings to industrial machinery and family heirlooms, we care for rich and diverse collections throughout Wales.
The Throckmorton coat of Coughton Court
The Throckmorton coat is a product of a bet made by Sir John in 1811. Take a look at how we celebrated this more light-hearted side of the family.
Honouring the Wade vision
You won't find labels or well lit exhibition cabinets at Snowshill Manor but instead a fanciful house with a carefully curated collection, displayed just the way Charles Wade intended.
EXILE
Between 18 September and 12 November, Kingston Lacy presents EXILE a bold new installation exploring the life and exile of William John Bankes as part of the Prejudice and Pride programme. Book your timed ticket for the house.
The Bankes family home
The house at Kingston Lacy in Dorset is a treasure trove of art work and the exotic, all courtesy of the Bankes family and their colourful past. Book your timed ticket house entry now via the What's on page.
Cobalt blue highlights
Cobalt blue splashes of colour can be found throughout the National Trust collection.
Things to see and do at Treasurer's House
From cellar tours to discovering the large collection and exploring the garden, there's plenty to explore upstairs and downstairs in this uniquely created townhouse.
Discover something new in the Hall
Discover more detail about the collection on your next visit to Hardwick; create your own labels and learn how portraits were the selfies of their day.
Places to visit in Cambridgeshire
Not far from the centre of Cambridge, wander around Anglesey Abbey and it's garden for all seasons or escape to Wicken Fen in search of wildlife. A little further afield enjoy exploring Wimpole Estate, including Home Farm where you'll meet some new arrivals.
Conservation projects at Blickling Estate
Conservation is an ongoing concern. Have a look at some of our latest conservation projects throughout the estate and find out how your support is helping us.
Plan your visit to Knole
From the sweeping parkland with its wild deer herd to the grand showrooms and world-class collection, there is something for everyone at Knole. Whether you have an hour to spare or a full day ahead, plan a visit to Knole and enjoy a splendid day out in the Kent countryside.
Upstairs Backstairs 6 June 2016
This week on the house blog House Steward Tracey Parker talks more about Polesden Lacey's servants, their lives and the untold stories we hope to reveal as we restore more unseen spaces in the house.
The Portia Robes at Smallhythe Place
The recently conserved robes of Ellen Terry in her role as Portia in 'The Merchant of Venice' are now on display in the Lyceum room of Smallhythe Place.
Book conservation at Calke Abbey
Our job at Calke Abbey has been to repair and not restore. Sometimes the most successful projects are the ones you don't even notice.
The History of The Workhouse in 20 Objects
A new exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to vote for their favourite Workhouse objects.
The collections at Knole
Knole has a world-famous collection of portraits, furniture and silver, due to the foresight of Charles, 6th Earl of Dorset, who was happy to take full advantage of the perks of his job.
Top 5 objects
Some of Knole’s treasures have already been conserved, while others wait for their time in the spotlight. Find out about five objects from the vast collection that will be cared for in Knole’s conservation studio.
Explore the fireplaces at Mr Straw's House
Emulating the artistocracy for the emerging middle class, also meant the correct fireplace for the space. The Straw family never changed their fireplaces at Endcliffe Villa and we continue to care for them today.
48 Days of Summer at Oxburgh Hall
So much to do, so little time! Summer has arrived and Oxburgh has something to do for every day of the holidays. It's time to cram in as much fun as possible. Enjoy!
Eight paintings not to miss at Petworth
Take a look at eight important paintings we have highlighted for you to look out for on your visit. These are just some of the extraordinary works on display.
Beautiful beasts: Philip Webb and the making of The Forest tapestry
Read the story of four beautifully executed drawings by Philip Webb at Wightwick Manor and learn their connection to a tapestry collaboration with William Morris.
The return of the Lucretia embroidery to Hardwick
Hardwick is renowned for its collection of textiles and strong female story. The second of the four 'noble women' appliqué wall hangings - Lucretia - returned from conservation in 2016. Visitors will now be able to see her redisplayed alongside Penelope and discover more about their story.
Exploring Ickworth
Uncover the stories behind Ickworth with our daily tours
The Collection at East Riddlesden Hall
Whether you're interested in needlework, pewter, furniture, clocks or ceramics, there's something in the collection to inspire everyone.
School visits to Knole
The learning team at Knole offer an award-winning and diverse programme that supports learning across the history, science, art, music and geography curriculum for all ages. Find out about primary and secondary school visits as well as bespoke post-16 educational visits to Knole.
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.
Did you ring, sir? Country house communication through the ages
How did people communicate with servants in sprawling stately homes before the invention of telephones? Learn more about early innovations in country house communication from sprung bells to speaking tubes.
Vase madness: the craze for garnitures
We look after the world’s largest collection of vase sets. Discover the fascinating history of ‘garnitures’ and the collecting craze that gripped our nation.
A picture of the past
Delve deeper into Stoneywell's collection as we share our object of the month.
The archaeologists’ tale from Clandon Park
The archaeologists working at Clandon have undertaken a huge task in clearing the house of debris and discovering priceless treasures hidden in the ash. Cat Edwards from AOC Archaeology Group tells us about her team’s extraordinary work.
The family home
On a plateau of high ground Stourhead house was built and became home to generations of the Hoare family.
Collections in the Midlands
The places we care for house extensive collections of art and items of historical interest. Here are a few highlights to enjoy.
Collecting Dyffryn's botanical treasures
What can a rare paperbark maple tell us about the history of Dyffryn gardens and about the man responsible for their design and development?
Developing the museum's collection
Exploring Childhoods is a five year project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) aiming to expand the collections at the National Trust Museum of Childhood.
Caring for Arlington's costume and textile collection
Discover how delicate fabrics are cared for in the collection at Arlington
Our greatest houses
One size doesn't fit all when it comes to the houses we look after. From the biggest to the smallest, the most innovative to the most scandalous, discover the amazing variety of houses in our care.
Timeline: History of Killerton costume collection
The costume collection at Killerton House holds a rich array of clothing and accessories. Find out how the collection came together and why it is held at Killerton. Please note that the fashion exhibition will be closed in 2017 while we carry out vital conservation work.
Take a tour of the house
Delve into the highlights inside the house and make a note of what to look out for on your visit. There's something to spot on every level, from costumes to organs and even a rosewood piano you can tinkle on yourself.
Ickworth and the Great War
Find out more about our discoveries and the history of Ickworth
A trove of timely treasures
Delve deeper into Stoneywell's collection as we share our object of the month.
Caring for collections
From tiny shells to grand state coaches, see how we care for our collections
The stories behind the objects revealed...
We need your help to keep over 1,000 personal belongings of Churchill here at Chartwell for future generations to learn from and enjoy. House and collections manager Katherine Barnett tells us her personal connection to the objects and why they are so important in portraying Churchill's life and achievements.
The Clive Museum at Powis
Our Clive Museum features more than 300 items from India and the Far East in the largest private collection of its type in the UK.
Beautiful rooms and treasures
Mount Stewart plays host to many items of family memorabilia including paintings, ceramics, furniture and porcelain brought back from the family's travels. Find out more about what rooms and objects of interest you can see at Mount Stewart.
Gallery 2: Where ancient meets modern
Everyday objects, owned by the people who lived at Dudmaston, tell their stories and illustrate the timeline of the estate’s history, right back to 1127.
Allowing the Tudor Great Hall to breathe again
The Tudor Great Hall is a magnificent timber construction, yet it is clear the original wattle and daub panels were no match for the longevity of the 500 year old timber.
The house at Ham
Ham House, near Richmond, London is a rare example of 17th century architecture and holds treasures from 400 years ago.
Carlisle Collection of miniature rooms
A stunning collection of sixteen miniature rooms displaying beautifully detailed musical instruments, furniture and accessories.
National Trust and Repton
Humphry Repton was commissioned to design and produce a 'Red book' for at least nine sites now owned by National Trust. He may have a hand in many other's but he described Sheringham Park as his "most favourite work.”
Inside Carlyle's House
In 1834 Thomas and Jane Carlyle left their remote moorland home in Scotland and came to London to seek their fortune. They rented this house in the then 'unfashionable' Chelsea for just £35 a year. Experience the intimate atmosphere of a Victorian home.
Conservation at the Carriage Museum
Discover the greatest threats to the carriages in our collection
Discover the carriage museum at Arlington Court
Explore the carriage museum and find out more about the collection, the building and interactive displays.
History of the Carriage Museum
Find out the history of the carriage museum and how over forty vehicles have been assembled at Arlington Court.
Learning at Belton House
Take a look at what's on offer for schools and other groups at Belton House. From Key Stage 1 to further education the Sandford Award winning learning team can offer bespoke visits for your students.
Clients at the Textile Conservation Studio
Our studio is run as an enterprise and treats textiles for both National Trust properties and private clients. Here is a brief list of some of the recent projects we have worked on.
Meet Mr Straw's CMS expert, Alison
Find out what it's like to be the CMS expert at Mr Straw's House.
Modern art in a classical country setting at Dudmaston
Sir George and Lady Labouchere both loved collecting art, but their tastes were different. Find out what inspired them and how they made their differences work in the house.
The man who was Lawrence of Arabia
Clouds Hill in Dorset was bought by T E Lawrence as a retreat, and has been kept as a memorial to the great man.
The collection at Shaw’s Corner
Look around the accumulated artefacts of this literary home, with highlights including George Bernard Shaw’s Nobel Prize, a bust of him by Rodin, thousands of books and his own writing desk.
Our work at Sunnycroft
We work hard to look after the villa, gardens and collections that come with it. Take a look at our recent projects and find out how you can view more of the collection.