RAW Charging (“RAW”), the leading electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator for the leisure, hospitality and retail sectors, is delighted to announce the unveiling of a new EV charging hub at Stourhead, one of the National Trust’s most cherished estates near Mere, Wiltshire, off the A303. This installation ensures members and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking landscape gardens, historic Palladian house, and surrounding parkland while conveniently charging their EVs.
In 2025, the National Trust celebrates its 130th anniversary. To mark this, the National Trust is leading the UK in its fight against climate change and has committed to several actions: restoring nature by creating 250,000 hectares of thriving, nature-rich land by 2035; ensuring equal access to nature, beauty and history; inspiring more people to care for nature and heritage; and adapting to a changing world. Nearly 300 MWh of energy have now been delivered across the National Trust network—equivalent to powering close to one million electric vehicle miles—with Easter Sunday 2025 marking a record day, as 2.75 MWh were delivered.
Highlights
- 16 EV charging bays – 8 AC and 8 ultra-rapid DC (150-300kW)
- Located at Stourhead’s main car park
- The perfect stop for holidaymakers heading to Cornwall during peak summer travel
- Powered by 100% renewable energy, supporting the National Trust’s sustainability goals
A masterpiece of 18th-century design, Stourhead has long been regarded as a ‘living work of art.’ Today, it is not only a site of historical and natural beauty but also a destination where sustainable travel takes centre stage. RAW Charging, which funded and operates this new hub, provides reliable and accessible EV charging for visitors, supporting a cleaner, greener future in collaboration with the National Trust.
Located just off the A303, Stourhead is an ideal stop for holidaymakers traveling to Cornwall and the South West, particularly during the busy summer months. The A303 is one of the UK’s most well-known holiday routes, often experiencing significant traffic congestion as families head to the coast. According to an AA survey in 2024, over 14 million people are expected to be on the roads on the busiest day – Friday, 23rd August – using key routes such as the A303. By offering ultra-rapid charging facilities, RAW Charging is helping EV drivers make their long journeys more convenient while enjoying a break in one of England’s most scenic locations.
The new hub is part of a broader collaboration between RAW Charging and the National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation charity, to decarbonise UK transport and support sustainability across iconic heritage sites. Since 2023, RAW and the National Trust 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. With transport accounting for 20% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, this collaboration is key to reducing carbon output. As EV adoption grows, RAW’s infrastructure makes sustainable travel more accessible for National Trust visitors.
At its core, RAW is focused on the driver—ensuring EV charging is convenient, reliable, and seamless. As the first and last touchpoint for EV-driving customers, RAW is committed to delivering an exceptional experience tailored to meet the evolving needs of visitors, guests, and members. By enabling effortless and sustainable travel, RAW Charging is shaping the future of mobility at the UK’s most treasured locations.
Jason Simpson, CEO of RAW Charging, said: “We’re pleased to be working with the National Trust in our shared mission to make transport cleaner and greener. 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 & Mompesson Estate, said: “EV drivers will notice a new ultra-rapid RAW Hub appearing on their Southwest 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.”
