No, you generally cannot use someone else's National Trust membership card as they are non-transferable and only for the named holder, though some memberships (like family or life with a guest) allow extras, and members can often bring guests or use free passes with the member present. Staff sometimes check names, so using another person's card risks being denied entry or having to pay.
Sharing is caring, but when it comes to your National Trust membership card, it's a no-go: Personal Use: Each card is intended solely for the person whose name is on it—this helps prevent misuse and ensures that the Trust can continue funding its conservation work.
Yes, National Trust members can often bring a guest for free, but it depends on their specific membership type (look for "+ guest" on your card for UK/England/Wales or a guest pass for NTS) or if they qualify for an Essential Companion pass for accessibility needs; otherwise, guests usually pay the standard entry fee.
Can you get into National Trust if forgotten card?
If I'm a member, can I visit Trust places without my membership card? You may be asked to pay an admission fee if you visit without your membership card.
Yes, you can add your National Trust card to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) using the QR code on your physical card, often by adding it as a loyalty card in the wallet app. While many locations accept the digital version, some staff might request the physical card, so it's best to carry it, especially if you're a first-time visitor to a property, as they may need to look you up manually.
The digital gift card will be sent to an email address of your choice where the recipient will need to click on a link to download their digital gift card to either show on a phone or as a print out when spending at a National Trust property.
There are family membership options for two adults living at the same address and all children or grandchildren (17 and under), or for one adult and all children or grandchildren.
No, but if you don't have your card to scan for free parking, or if you do not pay for parking, you may receive a compliance notice. If the car park is staffed and the team can validate your membership, you will not have to pay for parking.
Do you get free entry to houses with a National Trust membership?
The National Trust members can enjoy free and discounted entry to 18 museums, historic homes and places of interest in London. As well as access to the UK's historic houses, gardens, mills, forests, castles, miles of coastline, islands, 61 pubs and inns, whole villages and even a goldmine.
Once you've booked your ticket, you'll get a confirmation email. On the day of your visit make sure you bring along both your booking confirmation, your access pass and ID. Show these to the National Trust team member when you arrive to get free entry .
Yes, but it depends on your specific membership type: Individual/Joint members usually need guests to pay, but some memberships (like Family) cover more people, and you might get a Guest Pass with certain new/gift memberships, while members with a disability can get a free Essential Companion pass for a carer.
All Memberships at The Met are issued to individual persons and are non-transferable. We do not offer Library or Gallery Memberships, as each Membership card must be issued to a person and not an institution.
Your Digital Membership Card is now saved in your Apple or Google Wallet. You can use it just like a physical card when visiting National Trust properties. To access your digital Membership Card: Open the Wallet app on your phone.
I can advise, National Trust would like all members to carry their cards, we don't have a digital version for the cards available yet, and you need to scan your QR code to validate your parking, we appreciate your patience in this matter, and will let members know as soon as we have the digital version for members.”
Yes, the National Trust offers a 25% senior concession on adult membership for existing members who are 60 or over and have been members for at least the last three consecutive years, but you must call them on 0344 800 1895 to apply as it's not automatic or available online. This discount helps loyal members continue to enjoy properties at a reduced rate, with specific pricing for individual and joint senior memberships.
The National Trust often partners with UK newspapers like the Daily Mirror, Daily Express, and Daily Star to offer free family day pass vouchers, usually printed inside the paper or available via a linked online claim form for a limited time. These vouchers provide one free visit for 2 adults + 3 kids or 1 adult + 4 kids (under 18) to participating sites in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, valid for several weeks after the promotion ends (e.g., until early March 2026 in recent offers). Offers change, so check national and regional paper websites (like Liverpool Echo, Manchester Evening News, Wales Online) for current promotions, but be aware some sites still charge for parking or require advance booking, notes from Emma's Diary and MoneySavingExpert confirm.
The Essential Companion pass makes it simple to bring one or two carers or companions with you, free of charge. Show the pass when you arrive, and your carer(s) or companion(s) won't need to pay an entry fee.
Do National Trust members get free entry to all sites?
Yes, National Trust members get free entry to over 500 of their own properties in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus free parking at most locations, but remember National Trust Scotland is separate, and some places might have extra charges or require booking. International locations often offer free or discounted entry through reciprocal agreements, but it's always best to check first.
English Heritage, which has recorded a deficit for the last three financial years, had an income of £141m in 2023-24. The charity recently turned down a record £11m donation from a charity formerly named the Hamish Ogston Foundation, after allegations were reported about its founder.
Alfriston Clergy House in East Sussex was the first building saved forever for the nation by the National Trust. This early 15th-century Wealden hall-house was bought as a restoration project in 1896 by the newly formed National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty.
