Introduction

Activity and Research 1

1. British National Parks

There are 14 National Parks in England, Scotland and Wales, three of which are in Wales. (The Brecon Beacons, The Pembrokeshire Coast and Snowdonia). All of the National Parks cover areas of hills, mountains and coasts which are considered to have excellent scenery and provide opportunities for leisure and tourism activities. The landscapes of National Parks are protected against development so that the areas are conserved for the future.

All of the British National Parks have to:

• ‘conserve and enhance natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage’.  This means that the area is looked after and protected.
• ‘promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the areas’  This means that leisure and tourism activities are encouraged, so long as they do not affect the landscape and communities, especially where people visiting the area can learn more about the landscape and culture of the area.

• ‘foster the well-being of the local community’.  This means looking after the people who live and work in the National Parks and make sure that their needs are met.

The National Parks are managed by organisations called National Park Authorities but it is vitally important to understand that the National Park Authorities do not own the land in the parks.  The authorities have to work with a number of groups including:

• Local residents
• Landowners
• Farmers
• Local Authorities (9 councils in total)
• Tourism businesses such accommodation providers and attractions
• Other businesses in the National Park
• Transport Providers
• Environment Protection Agencies
• Voluntary Organisations such as the National Trust

So, the National Park Authority has to work with all of the above groups, consider the needs of the people living and working in the communities as well as looking after the special features of the area.
It is also important to remember that National Parks in the United Kingdom are ‘open’ all the time and visitors do not pay to come into the park.  There is a big difference between a National Park and a Theme Park!

Activities and Research 1

1. So, what is the difference between a National Park and a theme park?

2. Outline the purpose of the National Park Authorities.

3. Find out the names of National Parks in Scotland.

4. Explain why visitors are not charged to enter National Parks and why they are open all year round.