Thank you to our members from Dame Helen Ghosh

The former Director-General of the National Trust, Dame Helen Ghosh

It wouldn’t be possible to do what we do without our amazing members. Dame Helen pays tribute to our five million-strong supporters.

Dear members,

This summer the National Trust has reached a milestone. We now have the support of five million members for the first time in our history. 

The National Trust was founded in 1895 by a small group with a big ambition: ‘to promote the preservation of places of historic interest or natural beauty for the benefit of the nation.’

Over 122 years later this core purpose remains at the heart of everything we do. 

Your support helps us to look after 778 miles of coastline, over 247,000 hectares of land and over 500 historic houses, castles, gardens and parks and nature reserves, and gives you access to these beautiful places throughout the year. 

Spectacular view from Bossington Hill on the Holnicote Estate, Somerset
Walkers enjoying an impressive sea view
Spectacular view from Bossington Hill on the Holnicote Estate, Somerset

As a member of the Trust you are also part of a cause, which unites us in the belief that we must conserve these places for everyone to enjoy – both now and in the future. 

I am proud like you to be a member of the Trust and would like to thank you, on behalf of all of us here, for your support.

Best wishes

Helen Ghosh
Director-General