According to the National Trust, 140 historical properties across the UK now feature dedicated PokéStops, Gyms, and in-game routes as part of a new collaboration with Pokémon GO. The partnership, rolling out ahead of the game’s Summer Quest events in August, aims to engage younger visitors by blending digital gameplay with historic estates like Dorset’s Kingston Lacy and Yorkshire’s Fountains Abbey.
Bringing Pokémon GO to Historic UK Properties
The collaboration transforms existing National Trust trails and paths into interactive in-game routes. Players exploring selected sites can collect special National Trust Location Card backgrounds that commemorate where each virtual creature was captured.
Summer Trails, Activities, and Digital Collectibles
Twenty-seven properties are hosting enhanced activities as part of the National Trust’s Summer of Play program. Visitors to sites such as Cambridge’s Anglesey Abbey will find dedicated Pokémon zones, hands-on mini-games, and Mega Evolution Trails equipped with interactive challenge sheets. For collectors, the program introduces five unique stickers—featuring Mega Dragonite, Mega Clefable, Mega Gengar, Mega Charizard Y, and Pikachu—distributed across different participating estates.
Pro Tip: Meeting the giant Pikachu requires booking early, as these are already shaping up to be seriously popular.
Engaging Younger Audiences Through Digital Heritage
The integration of mobile gaming into historic properties is designed to get younger audiences excited about National Trust properties. By offering the prospect of catching a Snorlax, the National Trust hopes to drive attendance during the long summer holidays while introducing new audiences to historical architecture and parklands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which National Trust properties are participating in Pokémon GO events?
A total of 140 National Trust locations across the UK feature integrated PokéStops and Gyms, with 27 specific sites offering expanded Summer of Play zones, including Kingston Lacy in Dorset, Anglesey Abbey in Cambridge, and Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.
How do visitors collect the special Pokémon stickers?
Five unique stickers—Mega Dragonite, Mega Clefable, Mega Gengar, Mega Charizard Y, and Pikachu—are available at different properties. Collecting all five in a dedicated Pokémon x National Trust sticker booklet enters participants into a chance to win a Pokémon TCG Elite Trainer Box.
Are there physical events in addition to the in-game features?
Yes. Selected National Trust properties are hosting in-person meet-and-greets with a giant Pikachu, alongside hands-on mini-games and Mega Evolution Trails throughout the summer holiday season.
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