Behind the scenes

Peek behind the curtain to discover the inspiring conservation work of the National Trust, and the history of costume at Liberty

- Reviews by Dominique Corlett

If you've ever been curious about what goes on in the roped-off 'closed for conservation' areas you come across in stately homes, then this book is for you. A companion to the BBC television series of the same name, Hidden Treasures of the National Trust reveals the behind-the-scenes work of the Trust's team of conservators as they preserve, rescue and repair architectural and decorative treasures from the hundreds of properties and monuments in their care. Not surprisingly, given the history passing through their hands, fascinating stories are revealed in the process. Take for example