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National Parks and Protected Landscapes in England

England's national parks cover much more than mountain scenery. Fells, limestone valleys, heather moors, woodland, chalk downs and waterways offer different settings for a walking holiday or a few days outdoors.

Use the listing to compare national parks in England with National Landscapes and nature reserves. Choose one area as a base for a short break; the distances between famous parks make a nationwide circuit a very different kind of trip.

Match the park to the day you want

Lake District National Park suits a holiday with lakeside outings and fell walking, but those experiences should be planned separately. A low-level walk is a useful choice when the weather or your experience does not suit a high route. The Lake District visitor guide helps identify the range of activities.

Peak District National Park and Yorkshire Dales National Park offer contrasting upland landscapes for walks of different lengths. Select the particular valley, edge or moorland route before deciding on accommodation. Being inside a national park does not put every trailhead nearby.

Consider moors and quieter walking bases

North York Moors National Park and Northumberland National Park provide further northern choices. Dartmoor and Exmoor bring upland outings to the southwest. A moorland route may need careful navigation even when the highest point looks modest.

Consult the national parks directory to compare the areas, then use the individual park's current advice for the chosen outing.

Southern woodland and waterways offer another pace

New Forest National Park and South Downs National Park can suit a different kind of stay, with woodland or chalk-country walking. The Broads belongs to the national park family but offers a waterway and wetland experience rather than a mountain itinerary. Boat hire, moorings and individual visitor sites need their own planning.

Understand National Landscapes

Protected areas such as the Cotswolds are also worthwhile destinations. National Landscapes are designated AONBs; the name does not make them national parks. The National Landscapes explanation clarifies that distinction.

Plan the start and finish

Check parking or public transport, authorised paths and the return from the end of a linear walk. Do not assume that a national park designation grants camping permission everywhere. Confirm the exact overnight site and use current local guidance, especially for an exposed upland route or a day dependent on transport connections.