Raw Charging has opened a new electric vehicle (EV) charging hub at Stourhead, one of the National Trust’s most cherished estates. Located near Mere in Wiltshire, off the A303, Stourhead becomes the first National Trust property to offer ultra-rapid charging, ensuring members and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking estate while conveniently charging their EVs.
The site includes 16 EV charging bays, comprising eight AC devices and eight ultra-rapid DC chargers with 150 to 300 kW. Located at Stourhead’s main car park, it’s powered by 100% renewable energy, supporting the National Trust’s sustainability goals. The site is the perfect stop for holidaymakers heading to Cornwall and the South West during peak summer travel.
The A303 is one of the UK’s most well-known holiday routes, and the new hub will help EV drivers make their long journeys more convenient while enjoying a break in one of England’s most scenic locations. The new charging facility is part of a broader collaboration between Raw Charging and the National Trust.
Since 2023, the partners have worked together to install EV charging infrastructure at 19 National Trust properties, with 162 charging bays already in place. In 2025, another 19 sites will receive chargers, including Mottisfont and Sissinghurst Castle Garden, and 74 additional locations are in the design phase.
Jason Simpson, CEO of Raw Charging, expressed enthusiasm about the new hub. He stated, "Stourhead is a great example of what this partnership can achieve – combining a much-loved visitor destination with a well-placed stop for drivers on the A303. By installing ultra-rapid EV charging here, we’re helping to make sustainable travel more practical and accessible, while supporting the Trust’s wider environmental goals. With over 160 bays already delivered and more on the way, it’s encouraging to see the positive impact this infrastructure is starting to have."
Philip Niemand, general manager at Stourhead and Mompesson Estate, echoed these sentiments. He noted, "EV drivers will notice a new ultra-rapid Raw Hub appearing on their south west charging map, as Stourhead becomes the first National Trust property to offer ultra-rapid charging. Conveniently located near the A303, this landmark installation makes sustainable travel even easier for EV drivers heading to the South West."
According to energy provider Eon, ultra-rapid points can charge an electric car up to a 100-mile range in as little as 10 minutes, rendering Stourhead one of the top spots to visit for vehicle owners. The installation of this charging hub not only enhances the estate's appeal but also supports the National Trust’s mission to combat climate change.
As the National Trust approaches its 130th anniversary in 2025, the organization is leading the UK in its fight against climate change and has committed to various actions to promote sustainability. The collaboration with Raw Charging is a significant step towards this goal, as it provides essential infrastructure that caters to the growing number of electric vehicle users.
With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, the demand for charging stations is rising. The installation of these ultra-rapid chargers at Stourhead represents a forward-thinking approach to meet this need. It allows visitors to enjoy the stunning gardens and historical significance of the estate while ensuring their vehicles remain charged and ready for the journey ahead.
The National Trust has long been known for its commitment to preserving natural beauty and heritage sites across the UK. By integrating modern technology such as EV charging points into its properties, the organization showcases its adaptability and dedication to environmental stewardship.
As electric vehicles become more mainstream, initiatives like the one at Stourhead will likely become more common throughout the UK. This collaboration serves as a model for how heritage sites can evolve to meet contemporary needs while remaining true to their historical roots.
In summary, the new charging hub at Stourhead marks a significant milestone for both the National Trust and Raw Charging. It highlights the importance of sustainable travel and the growing infrastructure necessary to support it. As more charging stations are installed across the country, it will be interesting to see how they influence travel patterns and tourism, especially in regions known for their natural beauty and historical significance.
The Stourhead estate, with its picturesque landscapes and rich history, is set to attract a new wave of visitors who prioritize sustainability in their travel choices. The installation of these ultra-rapid charging points not only enhances the visitor experience but also aligns perfectly with the National Trust's mission to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
As the summer travel season approaches, the timing of this installation could not be better. Families and travelers making their way to the South West can now plan their journeys with the assurance of convenient charging facilities at one of the region's most beloved destinations. This development is a testament to the evolving landscape of travel, where sustainability and convenience go hand in hand.
