FAQs about the National Trust

Winter in the Lake District, Cumbria

Here are the answers to some of the questions we’re often asked, covering who we are, what we do and how you can get involved.

Are you government funded?

We are a charity, independent of government. As such, we do not receive any guaranteed annual grant-in-aid and we cannot rely on government support. We do however make applications every year to a range of competitive grant schemes, primarily to support our project work (through central and local government, European government, and through sources such as Lottery funds).

Sunset view over countryside surrounding a National Trust site in June

What environmental work do you carry out? 

We look after 250,000 hectares of countryside and more than 775 miles of coastline, and are committed to promoting green solutions and protecting the environment for future generations.

Find out more about our cause

Where can I buy your products?

A selection of books available from our online shop

Our online shop  

You can browse online for products inspired by the places you love. Every purchase helps us to protect houses, gardens, landscapes and wildlife for future generations.

Couple with pot plants outside shop

Our shops  

Many of our places have shops attached to them, and we also have several stand-alone shops across the country for you to explore.

Young adventurers can refuel in the tea-room.
Days out

Where can I buy fresh local food?  

Our tea-rooms and restaurants are a popular stop at many properties and countryside locations, serving freshly baked cakes and a seasonal menu of local produce. Choose a property and then open the Facilities and access tab to find out more.

Find a place to visit
A bird of prey held by a handler at an Arlington Court event

Is there a programme of events? 

There is nearly always something going on at our many properties and areas of countryside and coastline.

What options are there for holidaying in or nearby your places?

View of Compton Farm holiday cottages and Tennyson Down, Isle of Wight

Holiday cottages  

Stay at one of our 400 cottages across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, all with a story to tell.

A person with their legs up resting on a seat, laid back and relaxing in front of their tent on a sunny day

Camping  

From camping to glamping, find your spot under the stars and camp at one of our rural locations.

Guests walking on the driveway outside Hartwell House, Buckinghamshire

Hotels  

Try a relaxing break at one of our historic hotels.

Are there any job vacancies at the moment?  

All current vacancies are listed on our dedicated jobs website. You can search for jobs local to you, as well as find out what it's like to work for us.

Visit our dedicated jobs website
A red squirrel moving among foliage in the woods

Complaints 

Our complaints procedure can be used to register any dissatisfaction with our service, raise issues of policy or ask about any aspect of our activities. You can always raise a query at the time of visiting a place.