Living places for climate, nature and people

The National Landscapes Association advocates, communicates and manages national programmes, supporting the UK’s network of National Landscapes to be as effective as possible.

National Landscapes are living places: outstanding areas whose distinctive character and natural beauty are so precious that they are safeguarded in the national interest. Their legal designation is 'area of outstanding natural beauty' and they have been known as National Landscapes since 2023.

‘Landscape’ means much more than just a view: it incorporates everything that makes a place unique. The landform, climate and geology of the place determines which plants and animals thrive, which industries grow, and therefore its heritage, language and culture.

Priorities for the conservation and enhancement of these protected areas are guided by the democratically derived Management Plan, renewed every five years, and open to anyone’s input through a formal consultation process. National Landscapes are governed by partnerships made up of representatives of local authorities, other conservation and heritage organisations such as the RSPB and National Trust, farmers and landowners, outdoor groups such as the Ramblers, and local businesses.

The work of National Landscapes teams incorporates all aspects of place. To support our members most effectively, the work of the National Landscapes Association is focused in eight key areas: