Free parking and new prices at Shugborough amid National Trust takeoever

Free parking, new prices and a revamped ticket office – just some of the differences visitors can expect to see when they return to the Shugborough Estate next year.

Changes are already afoot at the historic 900-acre grounds in Stafford after the National Trust officially took back ownership from Staffordshire County Council yesterday.

The biggest difference that visitors will notice when the heritage site re-opens on March 21 next year is how much they will have to pay – for better or worse.

The trust has scrapped the council's three-tier pricing structure, which saw people able to enter the gardens for £3.50, with a full access ticket setting them back £15. From next year entry to Shugborough will be at a flat rate of £12. The charity will also be removing the £3 parking fee. Access to a public right of way through the site, which has proved popular with dog walkers, will still be maintained and free to use.

Another change will see £25 annual passes to the estate, which allow the holder to visit as many times as they want between March and October, axed.

Instead visitors will be able to purchase a National Trust annual membership for £63.

The trust has said that this will also allow unlimited access to the charity's other 350 attractions including the likes of Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, as well the Elizabethan farmhouse Moseley Old Hall.

People will also be able to visit Shugborough at any point in the year, with the site set to

be open 364 days a year once it is up and running.

National Trust project manager Hayley Mival said: "We are keen for both people outside of Staffordshire and people who live in the county to come and see this fantastic jewel that Staffordshire has got.

"The changes will help it reach its potential that perhaps it has not in the past. Ultimately we want to give people a reason to visit Shugborough."