We’re thrilled to share some exciting news as we mark Brathay Trust’s 80th anniversary: we’ve secured a major grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to launch our Brathay Blueprint: Boats, Buildings and Brighter Futures project!

Thanks to National Lottery players — and with additional support from the Francis Scott Trust — this funding will help us conserve and celebrate the rich heritage of our lakeside estate, historic Whaler boat fleet and nationally significant archive. But more than that, it’s about using our past to build brighter futures for young people and communities today.

Our Chief Executive, Teresa Jennings, says:

"We are absolutely delighted to have secured support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for our Brathay Blueprint project. This investment will enable us to preserve and share the rich heritage of Brathay in ways that inspire future generations and strengthen our work with young people and communities. My thanks also to those that helped support our bid, namely, the Francis Scott Trust, University of Cumbria, Institute of Outdoor Learning, Lakeland Arts and Tim Farron MP."

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Brathay’s estate includes Brathay Hall, Old Brathay, two historic boathouses, and a rare fleet of traditional wooden Whaler boats. These boats aren’t just beautiful, they’re still used on Windermere as part of our outdoor residential programmes with young people.

Our archive, dating back to 1946, tells the story of the Outdoor Learning Movement and Brathay’s pioneering role in it. With this funding, we’ll be digitising parts of the archive and making it more accessible, ensuring that the stories, skills and inspiration it holds aren’t lost to future generations.

Heather Featherstone, Director for England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added:

"The lakeside estate of Brathay is home to some outstanding heritage relating to outdoor learning and traditional craft skills. The Brathay Trust does a fantastic job in linking this with young people who can carry on these traditions for future generations. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, we are thrilled to be supporting this project in Brathay’s 80th Year!"

What’s Next?

This project will conserve and celebrate our historic estate while creating new opportunities for people to engage with them. We’re especially focused on making these experiences inclusive and transformative for young people and underrepresented groups.

In late 2026, we’ll be unveiling the completed Brathay Blueprint at a live outdoor celebration, setting out our vision for the future. Watch this space!

Learn more about Brathay's 80-year history.