How many national parks are there in the UK? England to benefit from new 'nature pledges'
England will get a new national park, with an existing green space set to be given the protected status under Government plans.
Natural England is reportedly set to consider Chilterns, the Cotswolds and Dorset as possible sites to grant the status to — although it has not yet decided which.
The non-departmental public body has £15 million available to protect the landscape.
The Government is in the process of reforming the national park system, with Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty being renamed National Landscapes. This follows an announcement in March that national parks would receive £4.4 million in funding.
National parks are large areas of land protected by law to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage, as well as promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment.
Some parks are only a short journey away from London and make for a great day out. London itself does not have a national park but in 2019, Mayor Sadiq Khan signed a charter to declare it a National Park City.
How many national parks are there in the UK?
There are 15 national parks in the UK. These include 10 in England, which cover 10 per cent of the country; three in Wales, covering 20 per cent; and two in Scotland — making up 7.3 per cent of the land area.
Most parks are privately owned and are considered either historically important or as a home for nature.
Where are the UK’s national parks?
England
The Peak District
The Lake District
Dartmoor
North York Moors
Exmoor
Northumberland Border Moors and Forests
The Norfolk Broads
New Forest
South Downs
Wales
Snowdonia
Pembrokeshire Coast
Brecon Beacons
Scotland
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
Cairngorms
How to visit the UK's national parks
Visiting national parks is free of charge and there is no need to book.
However, you might want to check parking arrangements by visiting the National Parks UK website.
Visitors are encouraged to dress suitably for the weather and terrain, while also observing the Countryside Code and putting rubbish into a bin or taking it home.
There is a chance you might not have a phone signal in a national park. As such, National Parks UK encourages you to bring a map and compass when walking around.