The National Trust has drawn criticism from parents for charging 80 pence for babyccinos, a small serving of foamed milk popular with toddlers. This practice stands in contrast to major high street coffee chains such as Costa Coffee, Starbucks, and Caffe Nero, which offer babyccinos free of charge when an adult customer purchases a drink.
The charge has reportedly caused frustration among parents visiting National Trust properties, some of which also have significant entry fees. For example, Emmetts Gardens charges up to £16.50 for adult entry. One mother described her surprise at being charged 80p for a babyccino for her daughter at the garden.
At the National Trust cafe in Lacock, Wiltshire, a reporter observed that a babyccino consisted of a few mouthfuls of hot foamed milk, under 100ml, served in an espresso cup. When questioned, a barista indicated that a charge was applied because cold milk was used, making it consistent with other offerings.
Comparisons with nearby coffee shops in Chippenham, Wiltshire, showed a different approach. Costa Coffee and Caffe Nero readily provided babyccinos upon request, with Costa's offering being nearly double the size of the National Trust's version. Starbucks offered both small and large sizes for free.
The controversy emerges as the National Trust also faces scrutiny over increased membership fees, which have risen from approximately £63 for an adult a decade ago to over £100 currently, with family membership increasing from £111 to £176.
A spokesperson for the National Trust stated that the organization regularly reviews its pricing to cover costs and support its long-term future, while aiming to offer value to members and visitors. The spokesperson added that their food and beverage pricing is benchmarked against similar attractions and high street operators to align with industry standards. In response to visitor feedback and the pricing of other outlets, the National Trust indicated that it is reviewing its babyccino pricing as part of its normal review cycle.