The 6 Largest National Parks in England

From moorlands and grasslands to coastlines and sparkling lakes, England has many breathtaking national parks. You can spend the day biking, backpacking, kayaking, visiting ancient ruins, and viewing native wildlife. Or, just take in the spectacular views of wild terrain stretching for miles in all directions.

Whether you’re a resident of or a visitor to this beautiful country, check out the details for the six largest national parks in England and discover what awaits you.

1. The Lake District National Park – 912 Square Miles

The Lake District is the largest national park in England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to England’s deepest lake, Wastwater Lake, and the tallest mountain, Scafell Pike. There are also several picturesque communities within its borders that offer a rich and vibrant experience. You can explore the area independently by walking, biking, or boating. Or you can book a fully guided tour and see places like Windermere, Ambleside, historical sites, gardens, and Langdale Valley. The Lake District is also an excellent spot for paddleboarding, swimming, sailing, and star gazing. 

2. Yorkshire Dales – 841 Square Miles

Located in Northern England, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is 841 square miles and has some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. With mountains, valleys, moors, rolling hills, quaint villages, waterfalls, bridges, and historical sites, there is an endless number of things to see and do at this park. Family day trips are perfect at Yorkshire Dales. You can walk on nature trails, stop at a chocolate shop or ice cream parlor, visit a museum, stop by a castle, ride a railway, and explore a cave. There are also festivals throughout the year and many guided tours.     

3. South Downs – 631 Square Miles

South Downs is a national park in Southern England, featuring rolling chalk downland and wooded heaths. The area has a rich history and has welcomed artists and writers since the Neolithic period and beyond. Seven Sisters is one of the most popular areas in South Downs, where you will find a rolling wall of chalk along the sea. These chalk cliffs are an impressive sight. You can also check out the Devil’s Dyke, a long, deep, and dry valley, most likely formed during the last ice age. And finally, you must visit Kingley Vale, an ancient yew forest filled with twisted trees that look like they jumped out of a fantasy novel.

4. Peak District – 555 Square Miles

This Central England national park is a popular recreational and sightseeing area. The Peak District is an excellent park for hiking and biking, where you can explore steep limestone valleys, dramatic ridges, stark moorland plateaus, and scenic villages. Apart from the many walking, cycling, and sensory trails, visitors can also go camping and horseback riding. And the park is accessible for people with different levels of ability, such as the route known as Miles without Stiles, a well-surfaced path without steep areas or steps. There are also opportunities for educational programs, outdoor sports, and wildlife studies.

5. North York Moors – 554 Square Miles

The North York Moors National Park is located in Northeast England and features one of the most significant expanses of heather moorland in the UK. You will also find wooded river valleys, historic ruins, and charming villages. Visitors use this park for hiking, running, birding, boating, and other wildlife viewing. The villages also offer delicious restaurants, tea rooms, and lodging. And you can explore the many church and cathedral ruins throughout the national park. 

6. Northumberland – 405 Square Miles

Northumberland is the least visited and northernmost national park in England. It features some of the cleanest air and water in the country and also has the least amount of light pollution, making it a fantastic spot for star gazing. This park has stunning scenery, iconic landmarks, and many historical areas, such as the hills and valleys where ancient battles were fought. You can walk to waterfalls, view ancient ruins, learn about history, exercise in the great outdoors, or view the abundant wildlife.  

Summary of the 6 Largest National Parks in England