National treasures

The UK is getting a new national park, which will be chosen soon from a number of options. Here are some of the gems we have already

- TANYA PEAREY

Dotted around the country are areas of stunning natural beauty, teeming with wildlife and cultural heritage. Here we can immerse ourselves to our heart's content, free of charge, safe in the knowledge that these unique landscapes' National Park status ensures they'll be protected for future generations.

The UK has 15 National Parks 10 in England, three in Wales and two in Scotland. Now, England is set to get another to help widen our access to nature and meet international biodiversity goals.

Landscapes shortlisted include the Chilterns, the Cotswolds, and the combined Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Dorset and east Devon. While it may be several years before the location of the new park is decided, there's plenty to enjoy out there already. 

1951: YEAR ZERO

That's when the UK's National Parks were born. First was the Peak District in April, followed a month later by the Lake District, then Dartmoor and Snowdonia in October.

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