What is the biggest misconception about the National Trust?
That it is an organization that looks after old houses of the gentry. In fact, it is one of the world’s most progressive organizations with regards to the environment and sustainability. Its new headquarters is a pioneering example of large-scale “green” design, and last year staff completed a massive project switching millions of light bulbs in all of the houses to energy-efficient bulbs. It was amazing: the Trust actually worked with Philips to create new bulbs that are eco-friendly but also appropriate for historic houses; now they’re available to consumers. The Trust is also working on making many properties self-sufficient in terms of energy use; there are historic castles with solar panels, for instance, and old cottages with mills on the property to produce hydro-power. What are some of the special programs you offer? Royal Oak public programs include everything from lectures on art, architecture and garden topics, to special small-group visits to private American collections or
