Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Wye Valley National Landscape

Map location of Wye Valley National Landscape

Wye Valley National Landscape

The Wye Valley National Landscape is regarded as one of the finest lowland landscapes in Britain. It was designated a National Landscape in 1971 to protect its special features, which include dramatic limestone gorges and native woodlands, impressive geology, rich wildlife and a wealth of history including hillforts, castles and the first Cistercian Abbey in Wales. At its heart is the river Wye, one of the most natural rivers in Britain, which meanders majestically through the Welsh and English borders.

326km2

Of designated landscape

1971

Designated since

29,300

Resident population

21

Sites of Special Scientific Interest

27%

Woodland

2.2 million

Visitors per year

311m

Highest point

4

National Nature Reserves

10

Priority habitats

83

Scheduled Ancient Monuments

915

Listed buildings

58%

Farmland