1. National Parks
‘a sort of national property in which every man has a right and interest who has an eye to perceive and a heart to enjoy’
William Wordsworth (1810) in his ‘Guide to the Lakes’

2. Where Are The National Parks?
There are 11 National Parks in England and Wales.
The Norfolk Broads, managed by an Authority created by special legislation, enjoys similar status as the other National Parks.
The New Forest became a National Park in April 2003.
The New Forest
The decision to begin the designation of the South Downs was taken in April 2000.

3. Where Are The National Parks?
With the help of an atlas, describe the distribution of the National Parks in England and Wales.
Consider their position in relation of human and natural features such as motorways, settlements and highland areas.

4. Describe The Landscape Of These National Parks.
Exmoor
Describe The Landscape Of These National Parks.
Lake District
Snowdonia

5. Why Were The National Parks Set Up?
The British movement towards National Parks began in the nineteenth century when artists and writers recognised the beauty of our countryside. Rambers and those living in the expanding urban areas also wanted easy access to the countryside.
After World War II the National Parks were set up to provide this access.

6. What Are National Parks?
National Parks are protected areas of natural beauty.
The areas include mountains, moorland, heathland, woodland and coasts.
National Parks are not theme parks – they are not fenced off and people live and work in them.
There are 11 National Parks in England and Wales. Each National Park is managed by a National Park Authority, which works to balance the needs of the landscape, the residents and the visitors.

7. What Are The Aims Of The National Parks?
to protect and enhance the natural beauty and wildlife
to promote the understanding and enjoyment of the Parks
to foster the social and economic well being of the communities living in the National Parks
Do you think it is easy achieving all 3 aims?
Are there any possible conflicts?

8. Study The Pie Chart Showing Land Ownership In Britain’s National Parks.
Private
Forestry
Commision
National Trust
Water
Companies
Minstry of
Defence
National Parks
Others
1) Who owns most of the land?
2) Why may it be difficult for the National Park Authorities to control what happens in the National Parks?

9. Activity What is a National Park?
Why are National Parks popular with visitors, and what kind of visitors?
How might people be harmful to this environment?
What are the possible conflicts between different groups of people?