Nothing tells a nation's story like its homes. Every member of Historic Houses is helping to preserve Britain's independent heritage for future generations. By way of a thank you, the owners of more than 300 of our homes and gardens invite you to pay them a visit for free.
Our collection is the largest group of historic houses in the UK, and ranges from imposing castles and impressive palaces to elegant stately homes and hidden, sleepy, manor houses. From large to small, medieval to Victorian, most are lived-in family homes, not static museums, where chairs really are used for sitting in and dogs and children are never far away. Join us and come on in.
In return for your support as a Historic Houses member you'll receive:
- Free access to more than 300 historic houses and gardens across the UK during normal opening hours
- Exclusive member-only tours and priority booking for some of our other private tours of hundreds more undiscovered places
- Historic House magazine, four times a year — revealing the hidden lives of our member houses, providing an insight into what it's like to care for an historic building, and sharing delicious recipes from our member kitchens, ideas for great days out, and news and updates.
- Access to a members area on our website where you can view bespoke content tailored for you
*Note that membership should be considered a pass to visit hundreds of incredible historic estates across the UK, with houses joining and leaving the association each calendar year. If you're looking to visit one place only we'd recommend taking up their membership scheme instead where available.
Why Historic Houses?
We're beautiful
The UK has some of the finest and best preserved historic houses, parks and gardens in the world, with most UK heritage independently owned. Unlike the National Trust and English Heritage, Historic Houses represents these independently owned houses and offers members the chance to explore their stunning collections of art and architecture.
We're 'lived-in'
Unlike museums, Historic Houses places are lived-in family homes, with resident families often able to trace their lineage there back hundreds of years. Our members explore these ancient buildings and grounds at their own pace, perhaps bumping into the Head Gardener, or even house owner themself.
We're diverse
From the treasure houses of Harewood, Castle Howard and Hever Castle, to the hidden gems of Corsham Court, Hoveton Hall and Kelmscott Manor, we represent an extraordinary collection of the nation's finest and most diverse historic houses. Our members are those who enjoy the act of discovery, uncovering the small home of William Morris as well as relishing Vanbrugh's grand designs.
We're local
Historic Houses members enjoy the opportunity to delve deeper into the histories and heritage of their local area, with over 300 places across the UK they can visit for free, including over 240 places in England and almost 50 houses in Scotland.
See a map of all the places you can visit as a Historic Houses member here.
Membership costs £56 for an individual adult, or £89 for a joint membership. Click Join above to see all prices.
If you have any questions about membership just contact our Membership Department:
01462 896 688 | members@historichouses.org
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Visit 100s of properties for free
Visit the places where Britain’s history lives. With loads of free access sites around the UK there’s bound to be somewhere near you. Perhaps you’ll find a new favourite.
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Dedicated members website area
As a member you'll receive access to a hidden area of the website with tailored content just for you.
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Special tours
As a member of Historic Houses you will receive invites for exclusive tours around the UK. Some to intriguing member houses not usually open, others to places of special interest.
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Offers and promotions
We regularly offer special promotions to our members. From discounted theatre tickets to special offers when joining partner organisations.
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Help to preserve our heritage
By joining Historic Houses you are actively helping us preserve and save these remarkable places for future generations to enjoy.
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Quarterly magazine
Receive our newly designed quarterly magazine, filled with insights into the world of historic house owners, news, ideas for great days out and more!
Facts & figures
Join Historic Houses
Join us and you’ll receive a special pass which allows you free entry to over 300 houses. Want to visit today? No problem, simply take your confirmation email along to the property.
Other membership options
Corporate membership
For professionals and companies who advise or provide services and products to historic houses and gardens.
House membership
If you own or care for an important historic house or garden in the UK, we want to help you.
Next generation membership
Next generation membership is designed to help those who may one day live in or run a historic house to prepare for their role as a custodian.