The Howardian Hills, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

The Howardian Hills AONB lies between the Vale of York, the North York Moors National Park and the spectacular Derwent Valley.  It covers 77 square miles of rolling hills, woods, fields, pastures, fens, rivers and historic parkland. Within this distinctive landscape lie farms, scenic villages and some of the finest stately homes in the north including Castle Howard after which the area is named.

This rich combination of natural and man-made features gives the area its unique character and is the reason why the area was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).  An AONB is a nationally important landscape that is given special protection.  There are 47 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, covering about 15% of the country.  They are designated by the Government and have the same status as National Parks.   Local authorities in the AONB are responsible for working with local people, interest groups and organisations to conserve and enhance the area's natural beauty as well as to promote its special qualities and support the livelihood of those living there.

For further information please visit the Howardian Hills AONB website www.howardianhills.org.uk