National Trust's Poignant Film Captures Lifetime of Memories

National Trust’s new legacy campaign film An Ode to Leaving looks through the eyes of one woman as she reflects on her lifetime of departures from the cherished National Trust places that have always been there for her.

Through intimate, tender, nostalgic and often humorous moments, she narrates a tapestry of memories that tease out a deep emotional bond with these landscapes and people she has shared them with, and linger on that familiar, bittersweet moment when every visit must come to an end.

The film is particularly poignant as it lingers on our hero’s younger family members and glimpses of precious moments she’s shared with them, and poses a powerful question: What if you could leave for the last time knowing these treasured places would be safe forever - for those you’re leaving behind?

Produced by Rogue Films, conceived by Don’t Panic London and shot across stunning sites including Lyme Park, Bodnant Garden, Penrhyn Castle and Porthdinllaen, the film juxtaposes these places’ timeless natural beauty, historic charm and quiet magic with the simple joy and fun they offer - games, laughs, impromptu snacks and cups of tea, whatever the weather. The film was created by the crew from a selection of pre-conceived and genuinely spontaneous, candid moments, all shot as if observed and half-remembered by our hero.

“An Ode to Leaving is a celebration of the deep connection so many people have with these treasured places, inviting audiences to reflect on what their favourite National Trust spaces and places mean to them and the people they have shared them with - before inviting them to leave a legacy so that they can continue to be protected for generations to come” says George McCallum, acting ECD at Don’t Panic.

“Gifts in wills ensure future generations can enjoy nature, beauty, history, and connection. That’s why this advert matters - it’s about protecting what we all hold dear," adds Sian Wilkinson, head of public fundraising, National Trust.

Of the shoot, Simon Ratigan, director, ROGUE adds, “It was a wonderful opportunity to work with Don’t Panic and National Trust and a thrill to capture so many stunning properties and landscapes. It feels like we spent a year travelling the lengths of the country.”

Why leave a gift in your will to National Trust?

Gifts in wills are essential to National Trust so that they can protect the places that matter most, from natural landscapes to historic buildings. Every legacy, big or small, makes a lasting impact, supporting rangers, conservationists, and volunteers in replanting meadows, repairing coastal paths, preserving beloved historic homes, and protecting wildlife for future generations.