Landscapes

A picture of Ullswater scenery

Nearly one-third of the region’s countryside has been designated for its nationally important landscapes.

Coastal habitats abound and almost one-third of England’s sand dunes are in the Northwest, including Sefton Coast dune complex, one of the largest in Europe. A Heritage Coast has been defined at St Bees in Cumbria.

The region also has over 10,000 hectares of lakes and areas of open water, including Lancashire’s largest lake, Martin Mere and Leighton Moss in Lancashire and Bassenthwaite Lake in Cumbria, which are two of the few places left where otters are regularly seen. 

The Lake District in Cumbria is England’s largest national park, whilst three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty lie wholly or mainly in the region.

Wastwater lake

The inland water resources of the Northwest include the largest lakes in England, major rivers, an extensive canal network, reservoirs and small but attractive wetlands and meres.

Formby

The Northwest has over 1,000 kilometres of coastline, more than 80% of which is designated for its wildlife importance.

Kirkstone pass

Home to England’s highest point and several of its biggest mountains, the Northwest is naturally home to some spectacular sights.

Gisburn is the largest forest in Lancashire and has a 16km cycle network, whilst Delamere Forest Park is the largest wooded area in Cheshire

From the carboniferous limestone reef-knolls of the Lancashire area, the single most important example of limestone paving in Britain at Silverdale.

The Northwest has by far the largest areas of remote country to enjoy in England.

Manor House picture

Whilst not strictly a “natural” asset the major landscaped parklands in the Northwest use natural elements of landform with water, tree and shrubs.