Discover Belgium through its rich cultural heritage... and maybe make a trip to the UK

Whether you’re new to Belgium or have lived here for years, there is always more to discover about this small but endlessly surprising country.

Hidden gardens tucked behind city walls, private art collections, centuries-old buildings normally closed to visitors and landscapes filled with stories and legends — Belgium has a rich heritage that is easy to miss in everyday life.

This is where the Association of National Trust Members Living in Belgium (NTAB) comes in. It was created in 1997 by Europe’s largest conservation charity, the UK National Trust, a leading organisation in heritage conservation that sets the standard in preserving historic places, beautiful landscapes and cultural treasures for generations to come.

NTAB has since grown into a lively, friendly group that helps people explore the culture and history of their new home country.

The association organises nine monthly visits each year to places of interest across Belgium. These outings are carefully curated and often include exclusive access to sites rarely open to the public. Members might find themselves touring a private château, listening to a conservator explain how a painting is restored, walking through a medieval castle outside opening hours, or discovering a unique industrial or architectural landmark.

These visits are a chance not only to see something new, but to gain a deeper understanding of Belgium — its regions, its craftsmanship, its layered history and the people who care for its heritage.

What makes NTAB special is the atmosphere. A volunteer organisation, the membership is wonderfully international: about half the members are Belgian, while the rest come from the UK, Europe, and further afield. All guided tours are in both English and the local language (Dutch or French).

It’s a mix that makes conversations lively, friendships easy and outings relaxed and engaging. It provides a gentle way to meet Belgians in a natural setting — not through formal networking, but through shared experiences and curiosity. For long-term residents, it’s a way to discover new places. And for Belgian members, it’s an opportunity to share the country’s heritage with people who genuinely appreciate it.

Each year, NTAB also organises a multi-day trip to the UK, focusing on National Trust houses, gardens and landscapes. They are a highlight of the year for many — a chance to reconnect with Britain’s heritage.

Membership is flexible and open to anyone. You are welcome to come along to two visits, just paying the outing cost, before joining as a member or an associate member. 

A perfect and opportunity to find out more about the association is to join its end-of-year visit on 12 December of the BELvue Museum’s exhibition on Art Deco and underground world of Coudenbergh Palace, followed by a reception.

Otherwise, its first activity in the New Year is a visit to the Antwerp Fashion Museum MoMu on 12 February. Enjoy a guided tour of the permanent collection and the special collection of Palestinian Embroidery, followed by a walk exploring the influences of the port’s trade with the British Isles.

Other upcoming programme highlights include visits to Nivelles, Merksplas, the Royal Greenhouses and Chinese Pavilion in Belgium, and Scotland for the UK trip.

More information on the NTAB’s activities here.

Photos: ©NTAB: members in Liverpool, Kasteel Gors, Vliermaal, Portmeirion