THE National Trust is marking 70 years since Trelissick near Truro was passed into its care with a new exhibition, digging into its archives.

Former owner Ida Copeland gifted the 300-acre estate to the conservation charity in 1955. Uniquely situated on its own peninsula within the Fal Estuary, a villa was first built in the 1750s.

Today visitors can explore vibrant gardens, rolling parkland and take in the coastal views from the ground floor rooms of the main house.

This year the National Trust are celebrating Ida’s donation with two exhibitions capturing the essence of the Copeland’s Trelissick and the place visitors see now.

‘Trelissick 70’ tells the story of Ida Copeland and her time at Trelissick. Featuring archive images of the estate, the exhibition recalls World War II, the Copeland family’s influence on the garden and their time in Cornwall.

Jen Pina, property operations manager for Trelissick, said: “It feels important to mark the anniversary of Ida Copeland’s generous gift to the National Trust. The exhibition celebrates the Copeland family’s time here and how Ida and Ronald influenced the garden that we know and love.”

For a second exhibition this autumn called ‘Your Trelissick,’ visitors are being invited to share their memories of the estate by creating a postcard-sized piece of art or writing that will be displayed in the house.

Jen added: “We’re asking visitors to share what Trelissick means to them. We’d love to know where their favourite spot is, how they like to spend their time here and any special memories they have.

“The deadline for submissions is 10 August and blank postcards can be collected from the Visitor Reception and House.”

‘Trelissick 70’ is open daily 11am to 4pm in the main house until September 15.

To find out more, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall/trelissick