Press Release, National Trust welcomes philanthropist’s record-breaking donation as the charity unveils major plans for 2026, National Trust, 12 January 2026
The National Trust has received the biggest cash donation in its 131-year history as philanthropist Humphrey Battcock has pledged £10 million in unrestricted funding. This comes as the Trust shares its upcoming plans to restore nature, end unequal access to nature and culture, and inspire millions more people to care for the world around them in 2026.
Record-breaking donation
Mr Battcock’s donation is transformative for the National Trust because it means the charity can spend the funds without conditions. Most donations to UK charities are legally restricted to be spent in specific ways. Importantly, unrestricted funding provides the Trust with the flexibility to fund projects of its choosing and support infrastructure. Excluding legacy donations, only 2.6% of the National Trust’s fundraising income is available to use without restrictions.
Read more: National Trust celebrates biggest donation in its history