Yorkshire Wolds moves closer to National Landscape status

The Yorkshire Wolds has moved a step closer to becoming England’s newest National Landscape after Natural England formally submitted a designation proposal to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Submitted on 8 September 2026, the proposal would see approximately 463 square kilometres of the Yorkshire Wolds designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), to be known as the Yorkshire Wolds National Landscape. If approved, it would be the first new AONB designated in England for more than 30 years.

The proposed area spans parts of the East Riding of Yorkshire and North Yorkshire, including the northern and western slopes of the Wolds, the foothills south of Malton, the High Wolds and their valleys. A coastal section around Flamborough Head, between Reighton and Sewerby Rocks, is also included.

The proposal follows several years of assessment, consultation and engagement with communities, landowners and other stakeholders. Natural England reports that support during consultations ranged from 80% to 95%.

If designation is confirmed, National Landscape status could support nature recovery, climate resilience, public health and wellbeing and local tourism. It would also lead to the area’s first coordinated management plan and could help unlock further funding for conservation.

The Secretary of State will now consider the proposal and decide whether to confirm, amend or refuse the designation. There is currently no set timescale for a decision, and the Yorkshire Wolds will not gain National Landscape status unless the Order is formally confirmed.

Find out more: Read the Natural England announcement on GOV.UK