Unlock Incredible Savings with the National Trust Explorer Pass This Autumn!
Make the most of your autumn outings with the amazing National Trust Explorer Pass! Launched earlier this year, this pass was designed for adventurous families looking to explore the breathtaking sites across England and Wales without burning a hole in their wallets.
Experience More Adventures with the Explorer Pass
The Explorer Pass lets you explore multiple National Trust locations over four, eight, or even 14 days, starting at just £44 for a single parent family or £69 for two adults living in the same household with their kids. That’s an unbeatable deal compared to a year-long family membership, which costs a whopping £99 for one adult and their children, or £159 for two adults. By choosing the Explorer Pass, you’re practically getting free entries to three extra days compared to the cost of a single day entry at popular sites!
Benefits of the National Trust Explorer Pass
One of the greatest perks of the Explorer Pass is that it includes parking. If you’ve ever visited non-member rates, you’ll know how parking fees can add up—some site charges can reach £5 for a full day’s parking! By purchasing the Explorer Pass, you can enjoy easy access to multiple sites without worrying about extra costs.
Additionally, places like Cragside in Northumberland and Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire can cost around £60 for a family visit. You can understand how quickly costs rack up when visiting multiple attractions, making the Explorer Pass a strategic financial decision for your family adventures.
Why Families Love the Explorer Pass
Many families have shared their astonishing savings while using the Explorer Pass. For instance, one savvy parent saved over £100 by taking their kids to nearby properties. If you’re planning to take multiple kids, keep in mind that single entrance fees typically cover only up to three children, while family memberships—whether through the Explorer Pass or an annual membership—cover all children or grandchildren affiliated with the named adults. The larger your family, the more worthwhile it is to consider these memberships!
Planning Your Visits with the Explorer Pass
Before you embark on your exploration, note that the Explorer Pass must be purchased online prior to your first visit—no buy-on-arrival options! With around 40 specific sites not included, it’s beneficial to check the National Trust website for details, especially for popular locations like Stonehenge that fall under a reciprocity deal with English Heritage.
For family outings, my top recommendations include Belton House in Lincolnshire, where little adventurers can run wild in a massive woodland play area. Equally delightful is the Children’s Country House at Sudbury Hall in Derbyshire, loaded with nostalgic toys for kids to try. These spots ensure that everyone leaves with a smile!
Summer of Play: A Family Favorite
If you’re a family like mine that thrives on activities, you’ll be thrilled about the Summer of Play initiative at National Trust locations. From outdoor games to music-making experiences, there’s no shortage of fun for the little ones! Our family’s favorite? The engaging hobby horse races in the Garden of Imagination at Calke Abbey. These types of adventures enrich the overall experience of visiting National Trust sites, making each day unique and enriching.
Dining and Discounts While Exploring
Don’t forget to utilize available vouchers for free kid meals at National Trust cafes— a lovely bonus to keep costs manageable without sacrificing joy. As a family, your days filled with exploration might not cost you an arm and a leg this autumn.
Seven Ways to Save on Staycations!
In addition to the savings from the Explorer Pass, consider these tips from consumer experts on holidaying in the UK:
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Find Affordable Stay Options: Opting for lesser-known vacation spots can save you significant amounts. For instance, choosing accommodations just a few miles from popular guys like Salcombe can lead to savings of over £400.
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Book Directly: Hotel chains and B&Bs might provide better prices and perks when you reach out directly rather than using comparison sites.
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Join Loyalty Schemes: By signing up for loyalty programs with hotels, or even supermarket reward schemes, you can score deals that save money on future adventures.
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Avoid Peak Events: Check for big local events when booking accommodations; prices fluctuate drastically based on demand.
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Share Costs: Holiday cottages can be expensive, but splitting the cost with friends or family is a great way to cut down on expenses.
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Take Advantage of Last-Minute Bookings: Booking closer to your stay can sometimes land you cheaper lodging options as demand fluctuates.
- Choose Value-Forward Holiday Parks: Family-run resorts often provide better value without compromising the quality of your stay compared to more prominent brands.
With the National Trust Explorer Pass in hand, your family can experience breathtaking heritage sites while enjoying educational adventures and fantastic savings. So, gear up for an autumn filled with exploration, fun, and memories!