People in history

Discover some of the social history behind our places and uncover fascinating facts about the people who have lived in them

Reenactors demonstarting historical weaponry during a Christmas fair at Blickling Hall, Norfolk. — Blickling Hall, Norfolk

Lady Jane Grey in her VAD nurses uniform at Stamford Military Hospital (Dunham Massey), Cheshire — Lady Jane Grey cared for injured soldiers at Stamford Military Hospital

Women’s stories from the First World War

We look after many places with connections to the First World War. Discover stories from the women who played a vital role in the war.

Discover women's war stories

Beatrix Potter, Dinner in Mouseland, 1890-1895 / Beatrix Potter Gallery — Dinner in Mouseland / NT 242737

The artistic world 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largest collection of Beatrix Potter's published illustrations, as well as a treasure trove of letters, photographs, unpublished drawings and manuscripts. Discover how the famous writer and illustrator combined her fantastical drawings with a scientific eye on the natural world.

The art of Beatrix Potter

Tales from our places

The Parterre Garden at Blickling Estate, Norfolk

Famous birthplaces and childhood homes

The birthplaces of the novelist Thomas Hardy, the railway pioneer George Stephenson and the revolutionary artist Thomas Bewick are among the special places we look after.

Three members of the Agar-Robartes family cycling at Lanhydrock

Places where children played

Our places have been havens for princesses and prime ministers' children. The childhood memories they created have inspired world-famous authors as well as offering safety to children during the war. Find out more about some of our younger residents' favourite places.

Literary connections

Some of the houses, gardens and landscapes we look after have inspired famous writers, playwrights and poets. Here's our pick of the best.

Meet the masked heroes that helped to save our heritage

Read the story of some of the National Trust's most mysterious and unconventional benefactors - and how two authors discovered more about their true identities.

Croome Court and the landscaped 'river' designed and created by Capability Brown

The man who defined the English landscape

We care for 18 different landscapes designed by the great Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, one of the UK’s most celebrated landscape gardeners. Learn more about the man who helped shape our image of the quintessential English estate, whose work continues to influence those who followed him.

Find out more

Video

A taste of life at The Vyne with Mary the maid

Ever wondered what the life of a maid was really like? Have a peek into the life of the resident maid, Mary, at The Vyne. Learn more about the Chute family and the brilliant architecture and art that can be found within this historic family home.