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The National Trust

The National Trust was founded in 1895 by three Victorian philanthropists - Miss Octavia Hill, Sir Robert Hunter and Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley. Concerned about the impact of uncontrolled development and industrialisation, they set up the Trust to act as a guardian for the nation in the acquisition and protection of threatened coastline, countryside and buildings.

More than a century later, we now care for over 248,000 hectares (612,000 acres) of beautiful countryside in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, plus more than 700 miles of coastline and more than 200 buildings and gardens of outstanding interest and importance.

Most of these properties are held in perpetuity and so their future protection is secure. The vast majority are open to visitors and we are constantly looking at ways in which we can improve public access and on-site facilities.

We are a registered charity and completely independent of Government, therefore relying heavily on the generosity of our subscribing members (now numbering over 3.4 million) and other supporters

The National Trust is independent of Government, relying for income on membership fees, donations and legacies and revenue raised from our commercial operations such as restaurants, shops and holiday cottages.

The National Trust's core purpose is to look after special places 'forever, for everyone'.

The National Trust conserves for the future, mixing the best traditional methods with innovative new practices. As much as possible, Trust properties and resources are open for everyone to enjoy. These beautiful places and collections offer opportunities for learning, creativity and participation in natural and historic environments.

We protect over 700 miles of coastline in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In total we look after 617,500 acres (250,000 hectares) of countryside, moorland, beaches and coastline.

Amongst the historic properties in the Trust's care are 166 fine houses, 19 castles, 47 industrial monuments and mills, 49 churches and chapels, and 35 pubs and inns.

The millions of objects in the care of the National Trust reflect its diversity. Conservation staff and volunteers care for an astonishing range of structures and contents, from 26 sets of samurai armour, or 19 magnificent paintings by Turner, to the Oscar awarded to George Bernard Shaw, the national collection of lawnmowers, 57 meat strainers or a photograph album the size of a postage stamp.

> An estimated 50 million people visited the National Trust's open-air properties in 2004.

> Our pay for entry properties were visited by more than 12 million people in 2004.

> The Trust now has more than 3.4 million members.
Other facts

> 4 out of 5 of the National Trust's historic houses open to the public run at a loss. The deficit is made up from central funds.

> We have reciprocal visiting arrangements with thirteen commonwealth 'National Trusts', allowing our members access to properties in places as diverse as Australia, the Cayman Islands, Jersey and Malta.

The National Trust is continuing to strengthen its role in Liverpool. The Trust is keen to work in partnership with others to ensure that heritage and culture continue to contribute to Liverpool's regeneration and quality of life.

> The National Trust's presence in Liverpool enables its to play a part in supporting key initiatives - such as Liverpool Year of Heritage 07 and European Capital of Culture 08, and to deliver a wide range of benefits to residents and visitors alike.

> In all areas of the Trust's activity we are concerned with making relevant connections with the city's past, and bringing them alive for people in a current and interesting way.

> The National Trust contributes to the quality of life and image of the city region, making a positive contribution to the regeneration of Liverpool.

> 20, Forthlin Road, the childhood home of Sir Paul McCartney and his brother Michael

> Mendips, the childhood home of John Lennon.

> Mr Hardman's Photographic Studio, 59, Rodney Street, the home and business premises of Edward Chambré Hardman, a local photographer of great skill, whose complete life's work has been saved for the benefit of future generations.

> Formby, a coastal property which provides a 'green lung' for the city's population and is home to the famous red squirrels and receives over 300,000 visitors each year.

> Speke Hall, a dramatic Tudor mansion with beautiful gardens and grounds - a real oasis and a valuable place for learning and recreation.

National Trust Membership Department, PO Box 39, Warrington WA5 7WD

Tel 0870 458 4000/fax 0870 609 0345

E: enquiries@thenationaltrust.org.uk

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk