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How to get a free National Trust pass
The ticket, worth up to £50, will give you access to a historic house, incredible castle or stunning garden in the UK until 6 March 2026
The cost of family activities can spiral, but thankfully, you can enjoy a free day out from now until 6 March if you pick up a free National Trust pass.
The entry, worth up to £50, enables up to two adults and three children, or one adult and four children, to visit a National Trust property in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
You could visit Coleton Fishacre House and Garden – rated the Best garden in England by Which? members. Or head to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal in Yorkshire – rated the best historic attraction in the UK, also by Which? members. Or there's Corfe Castle, a 1,000-year-old dramatic ruin in Dorset.
Simply head to the Daily Star or Daily Express, and fill out the online form to gain a free pass. You need to be quick, as only 7,000 are up for grabs.
What is a National Trust family day pass?
With a family day pass, up to two adults and three kids, or one adult and four kids, can enter a National Trust property.
Just be aware that children must be 17 or under, and you never have to pay for under-fives.
Can adults without kids use a National Trust family pass?
Yes. Couples and individuals can use the pass.
How do I get a free National Trust pass?
Reach plc has been dishing out the free passes, so get one online via The Daily Star or Daily Express.
One free pass is allowed per household.
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Where can I visit using the free National Trust pass?
There are hundreds of properties to choose from in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They include Chartwell in Kent - the former home of Sir Winston Churchill. There's medieval Bodiam Castle in Sussex, with its original moat, towers and portcullis, and Wentworth Castle in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, which has glorious gardens, woodlands and parklands to explore.
However, you can’t use the free pass at all National Trust properties. Find out which National Trust sites are included in the deal. It’s important to check before you travel there.
National Trust for Scotland and its sites aren’t included in the offer.
Here are nine more ways to save on a UK day out
When do I need to use my free pass by?
If you were lucky enough to bag a pass you can visit a National Trust site using your free pass until Friday 6 March 2026 inclusive.
Do I need to book my visit in advance?
You may need to for some properties. Check the National Trust website to find out where booking is essential.
Is parking free with the National Trust during the open days?
No. Parking costs aren't included (although not all properties charge for parking).
Does the National Trust offer free passes at other times of the year?
Yes. Free passes from Reach plc newspapers occur frequently (most recently in September 2025 and January 2026).
Are there any other ways to enjoy a free family day out in the UK?
Yes. In our recent historic attractions survey, we discovered that 17 well-rated attractions (by Which? members) were free to visit.
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