Nidderdale AONB

copyright Janina Holubecki / Nidderdale AONB

Nidderdale is a working landscape that has evolved over centuries of human activity. It has been moulded by a rich land-use history that embraces agriculture, mining, quarrying, textiles and water supply. It is also a complex historic environment with a wealth of medieval landscape features still visible in the more recent legacy of the AONB's industrial past.

The central feature of the AONB is the long, majestic dale of the Nidd, running from the wild fells around Great Whernside, south and east towards the Vale of York. On the western side of the AONB is a remote and wild gritstone landscape, with moorland that is internationally important for wildlife and home to birds such as red grouse, golden plover and merlin.

The eastern side of the AONB is a much softer, pastoral landscape influenced by the underlying limestone - with historic parks and gardens like Hackfall Wood, and great country houses such as Swinton Castle and Fountains Abbey. Fountains is a World Heritage Site and one of the National Trust's most famous properties. Dramatic sandstone outcrops like those at Brimham - together with the steep crags that mark the edge of many river valleys - are another characteristic feature of the AONB.

This landscape of contrasts provides the perfect opportunity for visitors who want to get away from it all. The vast, open heather moorlands are perfect for adventurous walkers - as well as naturalists who will spot a host of rare species. Or you can explore secluded river valleys and ancient woodlands where it feels that time has stood still for many centuries.

Nidderdale has an extensive network of public rights of way with regional walking trails such as the Nidderdale Way and the Ripon Rowel - plus Easy Going routes for people of all abilities. The AONB also has over 125 square miles of open access land, where walkers can explore the AONB on foot.

If it's water you're after, then Nidderdale AONB has eleven impressive water supply reservoirs (with their associated dams, weirs and sluices); three river catchments - plus numerous lakes and water features associated with the AONB's numerous designed landscapes.

Also take time to explore some of the picturesque villages, where there you will find shops selling local produce, tea rooms and country pubs.

There is a great wealth of places to visit in the AONB. From World Heritage Sites to world-famous breweries; from endless moorland horizons with only birds for company to Michelin-starred restaurants. There is truly something for everyone here. Before your trip, explore our website - www.nidderdaleaonb.org.uk for lots of useful information on things to do and places to visit.