Skip to content

How your membership can help you recharge outdoors

Two people walking on a constructed walkway through the very leafy estate in September at Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire, Wales
Walking on the estate in September at Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Exploring the outdoors can help you to feel more energised and uplifted, and becoming a National Trust member opens up hundreds of opportunities to explore the great outdoors in new surroundings. Refresh your body and mind when you exercise in open parklands, rugged mountains, rolling countryside and calming coastline.

Take on a challenge
If you’re looking for a challenge, get away from it all when you take on one of the summit climbs or lengthy trails in our care. Climbing Kinder Scout or White Horse Hill may require a fair bit of effort, but it’s worth it for the sense of accomplishment and sweeping views at the top.
Go wildlife watching
From seals on the Cornish coast and rare butterflies in Somerset to wild deer in North Yorkshire and red squirrels in the Lake District, spotting wildlife in their natural habitat can make you feel closer to nature. With a wide range of wildlife to satisfy the keenest nature lover, you can take your pick of wild places to visit, and National Trust membership helps to keep these habitats thriving.
Explore by bike
We look after miles of cycle routes, so get off the beaten track and explore somewhere new by bike. Try Longshaw in Derbyshire with views across the Hope Valley, take in views of the historic estate at Osterley in Middlesex or have a coastal ride at Mortehoe in Devon. You can cruise along slowly to appreciate every sight and sound, or speed up to cover some real distance – it’s a great way to get out and about.
A surfer running towards the sea in winter at Woolacombe, Devon
Surfing in winter at Woolacombe in Devon | © National Trust Images/Kate Groome
Ride the waves
There are gentle waves perfect for beginners, slow-peeling breaks ideal for longboards and even a few heavy spots that can hold the biggest winter swells. We look after many of the UK’s top surfing beaches. So if this is your sport of choice or you want to give it a go, National Trust membership means more coasts to explore for years to come.
Hit the trails
Running off-road is a great way to shake things up as it's a world away from the treadmill or local park. It’s easier on your joints, it trains your balance, flexibility and coordination, and helps clear your mind as you focus on navigating the trail’s uneven surface. And when it gets tough, running through beautiful and constantly varying scenery is a great distraction.
Explore by boat
From open seas to meandering rivers and peaceful lakes, there are lots of places where you can go kayaking and canoeing. Whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned pro, you can join a group, hire equipment or set off on your own adventure to discover new views and get some exercise.
Do what you love
There are many far-reaching coastlines, countryside spots and parklands in our care where you can meet up with friends and family, walk your dog or have some time to yourself. As a member, you’re helping to protect these landscapes, so you can make the most of gentle exercise all year round.
A group of young adults kicking up autumn leaves on a walk around the estate at Hardwick, Derbyshire

Become a member

Join today and help protect nature, beauty and history – for everyone, for ever. Enjoy access to more than 500 places with National Trust membership.

You might also be interested in

Four visitors walking around the autumnal garden with their dog at Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
Article
Article

What to enjoy as a member 

Whether you’re a new member or you’ve been with us a while, there’s always the opportunity to experience something new. Discover our top tips for getting the most out of your membership.

Sanderling on the shoreline at Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry

Wildlife 

Discover all kinds of wildlife at the places in our care from marine animals to rare woodland species. Spot grey seals, otters, butterflies or birds on your day out.

Visitors sitting on a stone wall and smiling, enjoying drinks from Joey's Cafe at Wray Castle, Cumbria
Article
Article

How your membership supports our work 

Thanks to the support of our members, we're able to carry out our important conservation work across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Discover some of the crucial ways that you help us care for nature, beauty and history for future generations.

Visitors sitting on a stone wall and smiling, enjoying drinks from Joey's Cafe at Wray Castle, Cumbria
Article
Article

How your membership supports our work 

Thanks to the support of our members, we're able to carry out our important conservation work across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Discover some of the crucial ways that you help us care for nature, beauty and history for future generations.

A group of about 8 people running to the left of the frame doing the trail running challenge during the South West Outdoor Festival at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Outdoor activities 

Searching for a new outdoor activity to try? Discover the best places in our care for outdoor activities, including off-road cycle tracks, walking trails and coastlines for water sports.

Man and woman in warm clothing walking along footpath covered with leaves, with autumn foliage all around

Countryside and woodland 

Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.

A group of people sat at desks watching a presentation in meeting room
Article
Article

International National Trusts Organisation (INTO) 

Discover which countries offer free visiting arrangements with similar heritage organisations.