Nidderdale is part of the national family of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) – landscapes so special they are protected for the nation – it’s not surprising why.

If you’re ever bogged down by a problem or situation, there’s nothing like being in nature to put a perspective on it all. Research from the University of East Anglia found spending time outdoors has significant and wide-ranging health benefits. It’s not surprising ‘forest bathing’ is a popular practice in Japan!

Being outdoors is one of the few things we know will make a positive impact on your physical and mental health, boosting your immune system.

Go to our website nidderdaleaonb.org.uk to download free walking guides from short, family friendly routes to long distance trials. We’ve got plenty of suggestions to inspire you – from the Washburn Valley in the South to Jervaux Abbey at the northern tip of the AONB.

SOMEWHERE TO LOOK UP

One simple thing you can do to really put life into perspective is to look up at the constellations on a dark, clear night.

Nidderdale AONB is home to large areas of open moorland and small, remote villages, which means that light pollution is minimal and the night skies are some of the darkest in England. We have four official Dark Sky Discovery Sites: Thruscross, Scar House Reservoir, Fewston and Toff Gate.

A LANDSCAPE WORTH PROTECTING

The AONB is protected because of its special qualities. We work with landowners, environmental groups and volunteers on conservation projects to help safeguard these qualities. Tree planting is one of the areas we’re focussing on in the next five years.