Lizzy’s Top Tips

Here I hope to share with you the lessons I’ve learned along the way, and undoubtedly the hilarious and embarrassing stories to go with them.

My current AYOT backpack includes:

  • National Trust membership card
  • National Trust passport for stamping
  • A book – for any unexpected waits or alluring coffee shops/cake
  • Phone, keys and purse
  • Bottle of water
  • Scarf – turns out a lot of these properties aren’t heated in the winter
  • Suitable shoes for walking on uneven ground

Lessons learned

  1. Even if you don’t think you will need your National Trust card, take it with you. I didn’t when we went to the Hardy Monument because I mistakenly thought I wouldn’t need it. Thankfully, the volunteer was very understanding.
    Edit: Post-Covid the NT teams are more geared up for people not having their cards so can look you up on the system should you leave your card at home.
  2. Avoid National Trust properties in school holidays where possible – you can guarantee they will be full of stressed parents and screaming kids. I don’t like either.
  3. National Trusting is fantastic with or without company – don’t be afraid to adventure solo. Equally, bringing friends helps to introduce more people to National Trusting which further supports the charity, as well as hopefully having a good time with said pal.
  4. Lots of National Trust venues are in the countryside, which means some exciting roads. Be warned if you have a car with low clearance, and I recommend not just blindly following Google Maps like me…