The National Trust has announced plans to close more than 130 holiday cottages across the UK, repurposing them as long-term rentals. The conservation charity, which manages over 500 cottages, bothies, and bunkhouses alongside its heritage properties and nature reserves, stated that the decision follows a review of financial sustainability.
Details of the Repurposing
A spokesperson for the National Trust confirmed that 137 holiday cottages will be affected. “We have reviewed our holiday accommodation to ensure all holiday cottages are financially sustainable,” they said. “As a result, 137 holiday cottages will be repurposed, with most becoming long-term rented homes that support local housing needs.” The move applies only to holiday cottages and does not impact properties included in the Trust’s member and visitor offerings.
Financial Context
The National Trust’s most recent annual report, covering 2024-2025, revealed that its cottages and campsites generated £22.5 million in revenue—an increase of £500,000 from the previous year. Despite this, the report warned of rising costs and a more challenging financial environment ahead. The announcement comes weeks after the Trust raised its annual membership fee above £100 for the first time. An individual membership now costs £100.80, a 30% increase since 2022 (£76.80) and a 5% rise from last year’s £96. In 2016, membership fees started at £63.
The National Trust explained that prices are “set carefully, based on what we need to fund our conservation and other work and to account for the costs of conservation typically rising at two to three per cent above the rate of inflation.” The repurposing of holiday cottages is part of broader efforts to adapt to financial pressures while continuing to support conservation and local communities.
