Whether your preference for history is a Roman fort or a Victorian country house, English Heritage has more than 400 sites around the country that promise a fascinating day out. This article explores the benefits of an English Heritage membership or, if you are travelling from abroad, an Overseas Visitors Pass.
English Heritage
Since 1983, English Heritage has been caring for monuments, buildings, and historical sites across England, including some of our most famous tourist attractions. Stonehenge, Dover Castle, and Hadrian’s Wall are just a few examples of the best-known English Heritage properties. But there are also many you probably are less familiar with. How about a trip to Chysauster Ancient Village in Cornwall? Or the J.W. Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham?
But there are also several other English Heritage programmes that you might not be aware of. The organisation now oversees London’s Blue Plaque Scheme, which originated back in 1866. More than 900 blue plaques link buildings in the capital to famous residents from the past. Authors, politicians, and many other people of note are all commemorated.
English Heritage also operates a number of holiday cottages, allowing guests the opportunity to experience a unique stay in such locations as the rectory cottage of an abbey or the custodian’s cottage at a castle. Cottage stays include a welcome hamper and complimentary entry to the historical site, as well as other useful discounts.
Membership
One of the easiest ways to support English Heritage’s work is to become a member. Membership provides unlimited access to all of their sites. If you want to explore Whitby Abbey every day, you can. Or if you want to set the lofty goal of visiting as many sites as you can within a year, no problem.
In addition to unlimited access, an English Heritage membership provides multiple other benefits, including:
- Free admission for children
- The English Heritage members magazine to keep you abreast of upcoming events
- A member’s handbook detailing the many sites, opening hours, and more
- Member discounts in the gift shops
- Discounts at other nearby attractions
- Plus, if you join by annual Direct Debit, you may qualify for 3 months membership free.
Membership is available on a monthly, annual, or lifetime basis. You can also gift a membership to somone else (and become their favourite person). Membership pricing starts as low as £4.75 a month for a student, £5.75 a month for an adult, or £8 a month for two seniors.
Overseas Visitor Pass
Those visiting England from overseas can get a short-term pass, valid for either 9 or 16 days. The pass offers unlimited access to more than 100 English Heritage sites, a guidebook detailing where to go, and free or reduced entry to special events. The pass can be purchased at any English Heritage site. Or it can be booked online and picked up at your first stop. Overseas Visitors Passes are available for 1 or 2 adults or a family. Current prices range from £45 to £100.
Half-Term Fun for Kids
With an English Heritage membership, there is no shortage of things for the kids to do during the scholl holidays. Various sites are holding special events and activities during the February half-term. These range from a fairy garden trail at Brodsworth Hall to World War II troop training at Pendennis Castle. Plus, there are plenty of outdoor play areas to keep the little ones amused. If you don’t have a membership, a family ticket doesn’t have to break the bank.
Buy Now and Save
Buy your English Heritage membership now and save even more! Use the code: EHAFF2024 and get 15% off Annual Memberships at English Heritage Membership. T&C’s – Only for use on Membership purchases. Just click here or on the ad in the sidebar to get started.
Please note that this has not been sponsored by or paid for by English Heritage. Clicking on the affiliate links will not cost you anything but will earn me a few pennies in commission should you buy a membership.
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