Access, Learning and Outreach

The HHA's Member houses provide considerable public access and enjoyment.   Britain's historic houses, castles, gardens and estates are amongst the most visited tourist attractions in the country. Everyone is welcome to explore and discover the rich diversity of our historic environment and opportunities are ever increasing to learn about, participate in and simply enjoy these special places.  Over a third of the HHA's 1500 members are open to the public and welcome some 14 million visitors each year, contributing significantly to the economy, culture and education of local communities and the nation alike. 

One in five of all HHA properites offer educational visits, welcoming 400,000 schoolchildren and older learners each year.  A considerable number have developed education resources and programmes and others offer special tours and visits by arrangement.  
 
The HHA works in  partnership with many organisations to reach out and welcome new audiences. Our new projects to improve access to, education at and community enjoyment of historic houses have been implemented, with energy, enthusiasm and success.

The HHA is also working to demonstrate  the social contribution of the activities with which Members are involved at their proprieties.   Historic houses provide attractive and exciting venues for a wide range of events and activities.  They are able to accomodate large numbers of visitors for open-air events and often provide uniquely inspiring environments both indoors and outdoors.  Historic houses host classical and rock concerts, historical re-enactment, theatre, sports and other leisure events, making them an essential ingredient in Britain's cultural calendar.