Shugborough rip off

Thehooperman

Well-Known Forumite
Took the dogs up to Shugborough this morning and walked past the National Trust shed by the car park where I was greeted by three NT "bouncers" asking if I had NT membership.

I replied that I didn't and was only walking the dogs along the road which is a public right of way.

I was informed that I couldn't use the car park unless I bought a £13.60 day ticket!! It's been like that since 2017 apparently.

I then asked if they charged blue badge holders and was advised that they can't charge for parking anyway. My reply was so you want to charge me an entry fee to access a public right of way and buy a ticket for a property that I can't take the dogs into? I also added that I may have possibly spent some pennies in the shops or restaurants but wouldn't bother now.

I moved the car to over the railway bridge and walked back, entering the grounds with a slight detour via the NT shed and pointing towards where the car was.

I have since checked the website and it says parking is free.
 

markpa12003

Well-Known Forumite
I went to Shugborough recently and parked in the car park and then spent a lovely free day wondering around the gardens and building.

There were numerous NT staff at the entrance but no one asked for any money.
 

Thehooperman

Well-Known Forumite
I've had a reply to my email to the National Trust thanking me for pointing out that their website says it's free parking and they will correct their website to say you have to pay the day admission.

Alternative parking can be found just here.

IMG_20190517_095127780.jpg


Here's my response to the NT email


Dear Stephanie
Thank you or your email.
I can understand you enforcing such a policy on a hot summer's day when crowds are amassing to view the hall but it makes no sense whatsoever to enforce it when it was pouring with rain there were no more than 20 cars parked and I told your staff that I wasn't going to be too long.
As I have already stated I have used this car park on several occasions previously and spent a not inconsiderable amount of money in your shop and restaurants.
It is totally ridiculous that you expect visitors, such as myself who only want to use the shop or restaurant, £13.60 for the privilege.
But don't worry I shall seek other dog walking/ refreshment facilities and never darken your doors again.
In case you were worried about others daring to use your car park without paying the extortionate rates, I have forwarded your email to several fellow dog walkers, friends and other social media sites so this should leave plenty of space for the visitors that never come on damp or cold days.
Your loss.
 
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