Facts & Figures

The primary purpose of AONB designation is "to conserve and enhance
natural beauty”. It is therefore essential to define as clearly as possible the
character of the landscape, recognising both its special qualities and the forces for change that act upon it. The key attributes of the Howardian Hills AONB are considered to be:

An unusual land form
The Howardian Hills is the only area of Jurassic limestone landscape in the north of England to be designated as an AONB. The deeply incised Kirkham Gorge is a unique glacial overflow channel of great scientific importance.

A richly varied landscape
The countryside is made up of a complex system of ridges, hills and valleys. These are clothed with a mosaic of woodland, rolling arable fields, small-scale pasture, fens, hedges and walls, formal parkland and scattered settlements.

A landscape of high visual quality
The variety of land form and land use produces a contrast in scale, colour, texture and form. The settings of the historic houses, the extensive woodlands, the broad sweeping views and the unspoilt farming landscapes and traditional building styles have a special aesthetic appeal.

A remarkable heritage
The Howardian Hills has a concentration of archaeological and historic features, ranging from Iron Age earthworks on prominent hilltops to the castles and monasteries of the Medieval period. The numerous grand houses and designed landscapes, such as Castle Howard, Newburgh Priory, Hovingham Hall, Gilling Castle and Nunnington Hall, have a dramatic effect upon the landscape.

An important wildlife resource
The AONB contains a section of the unique River Derwent, with its outstanding wild plants and animals. Other habitats of special significance include fens and relatively extensive remnants of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland.

Whilst each of these attributes is important in its own right, it is their
combination in a relatively small area that has produced a landscape of
national significance.

For a breakdown of the different habitats within the AONB click here