Special Qualities

The Peak District National Park was designated because it exhibits a range of special qualities, which are nationally, and frequently internationally significant. At the heart of the statutory purposes of the Peak District National Park is the need to document and clearly express these special qualities, their status and their condition. Defining the special qualities helps to manage and plan for the Peak District National Park in order to protect them.

The summaries of the special qualities listed below are in no particular order. They should be read as an integrated set rather than in isolation. The full text describing the special qualities can be found in the appendix at section 6.

1

Beautiful views created by contrasting landscapes and dramatic geology

Views ranging from the Dark Peak’s millstone grit to the South West Peak’s intimate mosaic landscape and the rolling limestone plateau of the White Peak.

2

Internationally important and locally distinctive wildlife and habitats

Dramatic topography, steep slopes and climatic conditions which support a variety of habitats and associated species.

3

Undeveloped places of tranquillity and dark night skies within reach of millions

Tranquil experiences exploring open moors and deep dales with their sense of wild remoteness and dark skies.

4

Landscapes that tell a story of thousands of years of people, farming and industry

Landscapes that tell the story of human history from Stone Age people all the way through to today’s land managers.

5

Characteristic settlements with strong communities and traditions

Settlements and the people that live in them that are integral to the landscape, representing past and present communities, traditions and cultures.

6

An inspiring space for escape, adventure, exploring and quiet reflection

An unrivalled setting for finding adventures and escaping everyday pressures so people can recharge drained batteries and enjoy healthy and active lifestyles.

7

Vital benefits for millions of people that flow beyond the landscape boundary

Many benefits extend beyond the Peak District National Park boundary to positively impact on people who may never visit and may be unaware of its existence.