Modern Monuments

In the epilogue to her history of the Trust, From Acorn to Oak Tree, Jennifer Jenkins, quoting David Cannadine, acknowledges a grain of truth in 'The accusation that the Trust has promoted (and been a beneficiary of) the "romantic, deferential and fictional approach to the country house".' However, the organisation has also made huge strides away from this archaic 'Country Life' image.

For example, Trust properties now tend to reflect, not just the 'Upstairs' lifestyle of their owners, but – through the opening up of kitchens and servants' quarters etc – that of the 'Downstairs' domain.