What is so special about the area?
The Howardian Hills National Landscape covers 204 sq km (79 sq miles) of the North Yorkshire countryside, nestled between the North York Moors National Park, the Yorkshire Wolds and the Vale of York. It is a unique and captivating area with its well-wooded rolling countryside, patchwork of arable and pasture fields, scenic villages and historic country houses with classic designed parklands. Its designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was confirmed in 1987, in recognition of its national landscape importance. It is part of the National Landscapes network.
An Unusual Landform
The Howardian Hills has a complex geology, dominated by Jurassic limestone. The structure of the bedrock has resulted in steep ridges and varied soil types. During the last ice-age the deeply incised Kirkham Gorge was formed, which is of great scientific importance.
A Richly Varied Landscape
The landform consists of an intricate network 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 landform and land use produces a contrast in scale, colour, texture and form. The settings of the historic houses, woodlands, the broad sweeping views and the unspoilt farming landscapes and traditional building styles have a special aesthetic appeal.
An Important Wildlife Resource
The River Derwent, which flows through the eastern Howardian Hills, is nationally significant for its unusual geomorphology and outstanding wild plants and animals. Other habitats of national importance include fens and significant remnants of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland.
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 have a dramatic effect upon the scenery.
Tranquility
National Landscapes and National Parks are seen as calm and tranquil areas, where people can relax , escape the rush of modern life and connect with nature. This is becoming increasingly important for both physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Find out more about our iconic location
What would you like to know more about?
Walking
Discover some wonderful local walks
Volunteering
Find out how you can help conserve and enhance the Howardian Hills
Active Map
Visit our Active Map to discover more in the area
Getting Here
Find out how to get to the area using public transport
Farming Grants
Details of this new grant scheme and how you can apply
Small Project Grants
Details of the Howardian Hills Project Fund and how to apply
Gallery
A selection of photographs giving a flavour of the Howardian Hills landscape
Projects
A selection of projects facilitated by the Howardian Hills unit
Our latest news
Record Turnout Celebrates Volunteers’ Week
In the national Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June 2026) it seems appropriate that on 5 June we had a record turnout for our fortnightly Thursday volunteer working party. The day at...
Time restored at magnificent Grade I masterpiece
The beautiful surroundings of Newburgh Priory, near Coxwold, North Yorkshire, may seem timeless, but one measure of the passing hours has been put back on track. For over 15...
Wildlife habitat set to be restored with new government fund
Precious wildlife habitat in our most important places for nature is set to be restored thanks to a new government fund, Nature Minister Mary Creagh announced on 25 May. The...
PhD Scholarship. Connecting with North Yorkshire’s Protected Landscapes: Towards a Natural Health Service
The Institute for Health and Care Improvement at York St John University, Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, North York Moors Trust, North York Moors National Park...
Castle Howard – Natural Environment
Castle Howard Estate is a major landowner within the Howardian Hills National Landscape and they recognise that the management of their breathtaking landscape is changing. They...
Our latest newsletter
Our annual newsletter is packed full of updates and information about the area and the work we are doing to protect it – click on the image (left) to download it.
Photo Credit: Header 1 – Looking towards the White Horse by Isaac Savage | Header 2 – Tawny Owl at Castle Howard by David Eccles | Header 3 – Dalby Maze by Liz Bassindale