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What is a National Park?

An illustration of a countryside scene with a lake, trees and hills in the distance

A National Park is an area of the countryside that is protected by law.

The laws are in place to:

鈥 make sure the history, land and wildlife of the area are protected.

improve the area.

鈥 give people the chance to enjoy and appreciate it.

An illustration of a countryside scene with a lake, trees and hills in the distance

Watch: Discover the UK's National Parks

Learn how the first National Park was made in the UK.

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Where are the National Parks in the UK?

There are 15 National Parks in the UK.

ten in England

three in Wales

two in Scotland

none in Northern Ireland

The first National Park was the Peak District, created in 1951 and the most recent was the South Downs, created in 2010.

A map of the UK showing the locations of its National Parks
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Why do National Parks exist?

In the early 1900s, people living in towns and cities wanted to escape the polluted air from the factories and visit the countryside, but landowners didn鈥檛 want people on their land.

In 1932 there was a mass trespass on Kinder Scout in the Peak District, which 鈥 19 years later - became the first National Park.

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Activities and attractions in National Parks

There are different activities in the various National Parks, depending on the landscape and geographical features.

People can enjoy activities such as:

  • Walking
  • Running
  • Boating
  • Pony trekking
  • Climbing
  • Canoeing
  • Cycling
  • Photography
  • Stargazing
  • Wildlife watching
An illustration of a camper, walker and photographer at a National Park
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National Park Case Studies

Every National Park is different, with each location having something unique to offer.

Take a look at the two slideshows below to find out more about two of the most famous National Parks: The Peak District and The Yorkshire Dales.

The Peak District

Image gallerySkip image gallerySlide 1 of 4, Bamford Edge in the Peak District, The UK's first National Park This is Bamford Edge in the Peak District. The Peak District was the UK鈥檚 original National Park, created in 1951.

The Yorkshire Dales

Image gallerySkip image gallerySlide 1 of 5, Pen-y-ghent or Penyghent, in The Yorkshire Dales, in the north of England., Peaks The Yorkshire Dales is in the north of England. It is known for its peaks, beautiful valleys and dry-stone walls.
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Activities

True or false: National Parks

Tap and find: National Parks

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