Who We Are
Cornwall Heritage Trust was founded in 1985 to “preserve and strengthen” (“gwytha ha crefhe”) Cornwall’s rich and distinct heritage.
We own or manage some of the most iconic and important historic places in Cornwall. We are proud to have HRH The Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall as our Royal Patron and Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE as our President.
Our heritage objectives are to:
- Acquire land of particular beauty, historic, cultural or religious significance;
- Preserve and restore buildings, artefacts or other items of particular artistic, aesthetic, historic, cultural, religious or other significance.
- Educate the general public and the people of Cornwall, and inspire not least Cornwall’s young people, about Cornwall’s heritage and to encourage the realisation of its importance to future generations.
- To promote, with sensitivity, the heritage of Cornwall for the people of Cornwall’s economic well being; and to raise funds and achieve favourable publicity to these ends.
We have a highly successful education programme and every year provide school transport grants which enable school children to visit sites across Cornwall. We support the Cornish language, cultural and educational events and give generous annual bursaries to post-graduate students engaged in studies that further our understanding of Cornwall’s history and heritage.
The Trust awards grants throughout the year to projects and causes which meet our objectives.
What We Do
Cornwall Heritage Trust owns and manages some of the most iconic heritage sites in Cornwall, working closely with local communities, Natural England, Historic England and English Heritage. These sites include the magnificent Treffry Viaduct which is an excellent example of Cornwall’s more recent industrial heritage, as well as more ancient sites such as Castle an Dinas, a commanding iron age hill fort.
Become a Member of Cornwall Heritage Trust
As a result of our joint working, members of Cornwall Heritage Trust can enter English Heritage sites in Cornwall completely FREE* of charge. By becoming a Member of the Trust, you can support our work preserving Cornwall’s unique heritage. For more information and details on how to join visit our Membership page.
*Please note Cornwall Heritage Trust members gain free entry to Cornwall’s English Heritage sites on non-event days. An additional charge is required on event days, such as the Legendary Joust or Pirates! at Pendennis Castle, and on some bank holidays. Please check www.english-heritage.org.uk in advance of your visit.