Explore heritage organizations in the UK

With summer travel plans still up in the air for many of us in the U.K., it’s a safe bet to stay close to home. If you’ve been here a while, you’ve likely heard of the English Heritage and National Trust organizations. Entrusted with the upkeep and maintenance of historical monuments and sites throughout the U.K., there are hundreds of different places to discover right in your own backyard. However, there are a few differences to each membership. Not sure which to choose? Here’s the low down on both.

English Heritage
Also known formally as the English Heritage Trust, this organization was formed as recently as 1983. Funded in part by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport within the national government, more than 400 sites are listed with English Heritage ranging from the Stone Age through today. Many of the registered places include ancient ruins, mysterious rock formations and crumbling abbeys and castles. Popular spots within the portfolio include Stonehenge, Hadrian’s Wall and Dover Castle. If you take a jaunt through London, keep your eyes peeled for blue plaques mounted on buildings. These indicate places of historical interest and importance.

Annual membership to English Heritage includes free admission (and most parking) to their properties. While there are plenty of sites, English Heritage membership is only good for sites within England. If you visit certain locations listed with Historic Scotland, CADW in Wales or Manx National Heritage, you may be offered discounted admission. Memberships are available for individuals, joint couples or families. 

National Trust
On the flip side, National Trust is celebrating 125 years of service this year. When perusing the listing of properties, you’ll notice their focus is more on stately homes and gardens, as well as historical spots of social importance. While some of their funding comes from government subsidy,  a good chunk of their organization is not-for-profit and is a conservation charity. Some of the famous places on their registry include the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, the exquisite Cliveden house on the outskirts of London, and the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney in Liverpool.

National Trust membership includes free admission to sites and parking, as well as various discounts. Unlike English Heritage, National Trust locations can be found throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They also offer discounted admission to places listed with the National Trust for Scotland. Annual memberships are available for individuals, couples and families. A lifetime option is also available. National Trust is also a sister organization to the Royal Oak Foundation in the U.S. 

Know before you go
English Heritage sites are currently in the process of reopening after the forced closure due to COVID-19. Many popular locations including Audley End House and Dover Castle will open to visitors on Saturday, July 4, 2020, with the majority of spots opening by August. However, you must book your slot online — regardless of whether or not you’re a member. If you don’t have a reservation, you will not be allowed entry.

At the time of writing, all National Trust Homes are closed. However, many of the surrounding gardens and parks near the homes have reopened. As mentioned above, you must reserve a spot for entry to the gardens, as well as the parking lots. The slots fill up quickly; however, more spaces are opened online every Friday. If you don’t book in advance, you will be turned away even if you’re a member.