Within the Lakes there are a number of organisations which aim to protect the lakes, but The National Trust was the first, and is the most important single organisation in protecting and preserving the natural beauty of the Lake District and the surrounding areas, and across the rest of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

In the hands of the National Trust there are over 248,000 hectares [612,000 acres] of countryside, over 300 historic buildings plus gardens which offer a range of visitor facilities including car-parking, restaurants and shops and also 600 miles of coastline.

The National Trust was founded by Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley, who lived in the Lake District and became it's first secretary along with co. founders Miss Octavia Hill and Sir Robert Hunter in 1895. The first property of this kind was Brandelhow Park,on the shore of Derwent Water.

Within the area, the National Trust owns around one quarter of the Lake District National Park which includes over 36,000 hectares [90,000 acres], hill farms, famous houses such as: Hill Top [Beatrix Potter] Sizergh Castle and Wordsworth House, Cockermouth [William Wordsworth]. It also owns Buttermere, Crummock Water, Loweswater and large sections of Derwent Water, Ullswaterand Rydal. Wast Water is the deepest lake, with the mountains like Scafell Pike being the highest in England. Great Gable and the Langdale Pikes are also in their trust.

The National Trust is a registered charity and rely on the generosity of its members and supporters. As a member of the National Trust you are allowed free admission into all it's properties, along with other benefits. Being a member you are protecting and saving the land and properties for generations to come.

Click Here To Enter The National Trust Official On-Line Web site.

National Trust - Attractions

National Trust - Camping

Low Wray Campsite ( NT ) Situated on the western shore of Windermere, just 3 miles from Ambleside, this is a spectacular location from which to participate in all kinds of outdoor persuits including sailing and canoeing. There are hot showers, a shop, laundry facilities and more. OPEN EASTER to OCTOBER Please Note: New arrivals will be accepted from 13:00 hrs until 20:00 hrs. At Bank Holiday weekends, if space is available, campers may be permitted to pitch earlier. Bank Holidays : Low Wray Campsite will accept only 2 night minimum stays at Bank Holiday weekends. Single Sex Groups: Please note that the maximum number accepted in a group is 3 No Caravans Near Ambleside, Lake District, Cumbria, England, LA22 0JA +44 [0] 15394 32810

Great Langdale Campsite ( NT ) Situated at the head of the majestic Great Langdale Valley and guarded by the domineering Langdale Pikes, this is an excellent base from which to climb up on to Langdale Pikes and England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike. Hot showers, shop and laundry facilities available. OPEN ALL YEAR. Only organised groups and families may book in advance, all other campers accepted on a first come , first served basis. No Caravans. Great Langdale Near Ambleside, Lake District, Cumbria, England, LA22 9JU +44 [0] 15394 37668

Wasdale Head Campsite ( NT ) Wasdale Campsite nestles under the Scafell Mountain range at the head of beautiful Wastwater. Remote and peaceful, it provides a spectacular base for walking and climbing activities. Hot showers, a shop, laundry facilities and more on site. OPEN ALL YEAR. NO BOOKINGS TAKEN. [Organised groups of no more than 20 are welcomed by prior arrangement]. A maximum number of 4 in a single sex group is accepted. Please Note: Wasdale Campsite is open only to PEDESTRIANS until further notice - the bridge leading to the site has been closed to vehicles due to health and safety reasons. Car parking arrangements are available at Wasdale Head Green ( grid reference 3 187508 ) and at The National Trust's car park at Overbeck ( grid reference 3 168069 ). We apologise for any conveneince caused , please telephone the campsite for updates or consult the website again prior to your visit. Wasdale Head, Lake District, Cumbria, England, CA20 1EX +44 [0] 19467 26220

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