Visiting the National Parks

Escape from urban sprawl to the pure tranquillity of the outdoors. A National Park is the ultimate “green gym” for all seasons. Whether you want peace and solitude or invigorating adventure, there’s a place to suit you.

Browse the photogalleries to get a feeling for the different landscapes and character of each National Park.

Enjoying yourself on an event

There's loads going on in all the National Parks, everything from guided walks to live music, children's fun days to wildlife watchings. There are events to suit all ages and many of them are free! Use our events search to find out what's on in the National Parks

A taste of Britain

Local food and drink will give you a real taste of the National Parks, often produced from traditional farming techniques that help preserve wildlife. Look out for local recipes on the menu, or visit a farmers markets to sample something special.

Arts and crafts also flourish. From sculpture trails to jewellery, you'll find something to catch your eye. National Parks are great locations for creative holidays, whether its capturing the scenery in paint or in words, or making the most of local delicacies in a cookery course!

Farmers markets and art and craft events listed in our events search.

More land now open for access

The Countryside and Rights of Way Act gives new rights to areas of open countryside and registered common land in England and Wales. It allows the public to walk over open access land without sticking to paths. It doesn't cover all countryside areas and is implemented on a regional basis – for details, visit the Countryside Access website, and look out for the new Open Access symbols when you're out and about.