This fascinating observational series lifts the lid on one of Britain's most powerful and political forces. Established in 1895, the National Trust is the leading guardian of our historic houses, gardens, countryside and over 600 miles of coastline. It also boasts more than 3.2 million members.

Filmed over two years at a time when the Trust was trying to modernise, the series begins with a middle class revolt on the south coast. The area around Studland Bay in Dorset, with its sandy beaches, Georgian Kingston Lacey Manor and 8,000 hectares of prime land, is a jewel in the Trust's crown. However, managing this huge acreage - not to mention a growing number of disgruntled locals and Britain's most vociferous nudists- is starting to cause the organisation a monumental headache.

Later in the series, the cameras focus on four more Trust hot spots: Stonehenge, Lennon's boyhood home, Waddesdon Manor and Tyntesfield House.