National Heritage Memorial Fund

The National Heritage Memorial Fund (NHMF) was set up in 1980 to save the most outstanding parts of the British national heritage, in memory of those who have given their lives for the UK.

It replaced the National Land Fund, which had fulfilled the same function since 1946.

[2] A diverse list of over 1,200 heritage items have been safeguarded by the National Heritage Memorial Fund, including: National Trust country house acquisitions funded through the NHMF include Calke Abbey, Belton House, Kedleston Hall and Chastleton House.

In addition, NHMF intervention helped Burton Constable Hall, Paxton House, Thirlestane Castle, Hopetoun House, Weston Park and Wentworth Woodhouse to be established as independent charitable trusts.

[2] The NHMF is funded by grant-in-aid from the UK Government through the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Joseph Wright of Derby . Two Girls Dressing a Kitten by Candlelight . c. 1768–1770. Oil on canvas, Kenwood House , London. Acquired by English Heritage with help from the National Heritage Memorial Fund. [ 1 ]