The National Trust was founded in 1895 by Octavia Hill, Sir Robert Hunter and Canon Rawnsley in order to preserve the countryside and buildings of Britain that were threatened by development and industrialisation. The charity is now the owner of some of the most magnificent stately homes and countryside that Britain has to offer. The National Trust Photo Library provides comprehensive documentation of the highlights of the National Trust’s portfolio, including the buildings, interiors and paintings that are found on their many properties.