Share a tip on an unsung discovery in a UK national park or nature reserve

That number has grown to 15 across the UK, encompassing a diverse tapestry of breathtaking scenery, from the rugged mountains of Snowdonia and the vast wilderness of the Cairngorms to the serene waterways of the Norfolk Broads and the ancient woodlands of the New Forest. Complementing these expansive National Parks are more than 200 National Nature Reserves (NNRs), which are designed to protect specific, often more fragile or scientifically important, landscapes and habitats. These reserves serve as crucial havens for rare species and unique ecosystems, offering unparalleled opportunities for scientific research, environmental education, and respectful engagement with nature.

To mark this momentous occasion and to encourage deeper appreciation for these invaluable assets, The Guardian Travel section is inviting readers to share their most cherished experiences within the UK’s National Parks and National Nature Reserves. Whether it’s the tranquil joy of boating through the intricate network of waterways in the Norfolk Broads national park, the awe-inspiring spectacle of birdwatching amidst the protected coastal dunes and mudflats of Lindisfarne national nature reserve, or the invigorating freedom of camping beneath the vast skies of the Cairngorms, we’d love to hear about your favourite things to do and places to visit. This is an opportunity for readers to celebrate the beauty and accessibility of these protected areas, offering personal insights that can inspire fellow travellers and highlight the diverse ways in which these landscapes enrich our lives.

The origins of the UK’s National Park system trace back to a burgeoning public awareness in the late 19th and early 20th centuries of the need to protect Britain’s wild places from industrial encroachment and increasing urbanisation. Pioneers like John Muir in the US and figures within the Ramblers’ Association in the UK championed the idea of designated areas for public access and nature conservation. This movement culminated in the landmark National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949, which paved the way for the creation of the first National Parks. The Peak District was swiftly followed by the Lake District, Snowdonia, Dartmoor, and Exmoor, among others, each chosen for its outstanding natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and rich cultural heritage. Today, these parks collectively cover approximately 10% of England, Scotland, and Wales, attracting millions of visitors annually and playing a critical role in the nation’s environmental health and cultural identity.

National Parks operate under a dual mandate: to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the area, and to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the park by the public. This delicate balance often involves complex management decisions, from controlling development and promoting sustainable tourism to managing land use and supporting local communities. The Lake District, for instance, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, grapples with balancing its iconic landscape, traditional farming, and the 19 million visitors it receives each year. Similarly, the Cairngorms, the UK’s largest National Park, is a stronghold for rare species like the Scottish wildcat and capercaillie, requiring careful management to protect its fragile ecosystems while also accommodating diverse outdoor pursuits. These parks are not simply static landscapes; they are living, working areas, home to vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, constantly evolving under the stewardship of their respective authorities.

Beyond the grandeur of National Parks, National Nature Reserves (NNRs) provide a more focused layer of protection. These sites, managed by statutory bodies like Natural England, NatureScot, and Natural Resources Wales, are identified as being of national importance for their wildlife, geology, or landforms. The more than 200 NNRs across the UK range dramatically in size and character, from vast coastal areas and ancient woodlands to small peat bogs and geological sites. Lindisfarne NNR, for example, is a globally important wintering ground for wildfowl and waders, offering a sanctuary to thousands of birds migrating from the Arctic. Beinn Eighe, Scotland’s first NNR, protects a fragment of ancient Caledonian pine forest and provides a habitat for golden eagles and red deer. These reserves often serve as living laboratories, facilitating scientific research and monitoring of biodiversity trends, crucial for understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change and habitat loss. They embody a commitment to safeguarding the UK’s most precious natural heritage, often through active conservation management, including habitat restoration, species reintroduction, and careful visitor management to minimise disturbance.

The collective value of these protected areas—National Parks and National Nature Reserves—cannot be overstated. Environmentally, they are bastions of biodiversity, providing critical habitats for countless species of flora and fauna, many of which are rare or endangered. They also play a vital role in ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, water purification, and flood mitigation, contributing significantly to the UK’s environmental resilience. Socially, these landscapes offer invaluable spaces for physical and mental wellbeing. Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact of access to nature on human health, reducing stress, improving mood, and encouraging physical activity. Millions of people annually find solace, inspiration, and adventure within their boundaries, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. Economically, these areas are major drivers of rural economies, supporting tourism, hospitality, and local crafts, generating billions of pounds and sustaining tens of thousands of jobs. According to a report by National Parks England, the English National Parks alone contribute over £4 billion to the economy annually and support around 75,000 jobs.

However, these cherished landscapes are not without their challenges. Increased visitor numbers, while economically beneficial, can put pressure on fragile environments and local infrastructure, leading to issues of litter, erosion, and traffic congestion. Climate change poses an existential threat, altering habitats, impacting species distribution, and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events. Funding for conservation and management remains a perennial concern, often requiring innovative partnerships and community engagement to ensure the long-term sustainability of these areas. Balancing the competing demands of conservation, recreation, and economic development requires continuous vigilance, adaptive management strategies, and a collaborative approach involving local communities, government bodies, and visitors alike.

Against this backdrop, The Guardian’s call for reader submissions offers a unique opportunity for individuals to contribute to the ongoing narrative of these vital spaces. The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, wins a generous £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property. Tom Hall, as a prominent figure from Lonely Planet, a globally recognised authority in travel guidance, brings a wealth of expertise and a discerning eye to the judging process, ensuring that the winning tip truly stands out for its insight and inspiration. Coolstays, with its portfolio of more than 3,000 unique and stylish properties worldwide, offers an exceptional prize, allowing the winner to experience a truly memorable stay in a distinctive location. This collaboration underscores the value placed on authentic travel experiences and the desire to encourage exploration of unique accommodations, often within or near stunning natural landscapes.

To ensure fairness and focus, entrants are asked to keep their tip to about 100 words. This concise format encourages distillation of the most impactful advice, focusing on the essence of the experience. While a relevant photo is welcome and can certainly enhance a submission, it’s crucial to remember that it’s your words we will be judging for the competition. The power of narrative and the ability to vividly convey an experience through text are paramount. Regrettably, due to legal reasons pertaining to competition regulations, you must be a UK resident to enter this competition, ensuring compliance with national laws governing prize draws and promotions. The competition closes on Monday 9 March at 10am GMT, so aspiring travel writers and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to submit their entries promptly to be considered for this exciting opportunity.

Beyond the allure of the prize, participating in this competition offers readers a chance to be part of a larger conversation about the UK’s natural heritage. It’s an opportunity to share hidden gems, practical advice, and personal reflections that can inspire countless others to explore and appreciate these incredible places. Previous winners and other insightful tips can be found by looking at our past winners and other tips, providing a rich source of inspiration and demonstrating the calibre of submissions. All entrants are encouraged to read the terms and conditions here to ensure full understanding of the competition rules and eligibility criteria.

Submitting your travel tip is made easy through the provided online form. This digital portal allows for efficient and secure submission of entries, asking for details such as the tip itself (maximum 100 words, including location, price, and website where applicable), an optional photograph, your name (first name only if preferred for privacy), your place of residence (confirming UK residency), and your email address. The privacy of participants is paramount, and the form is designed to be secure, with all data used solely for the purpose of the feature. Full details on data handling and privacy can be found in the privacy policy here, and general terms of service are available here. If any technical difficulties are encountered with the online form, an alternative link is provided here for direct access.

As the Peak District celebrates its 75th year, and as we reflect on the remarkable growth of the UK’s network of protected landscapes, this competition serves as a timely invitation to connect with, celebrate, and advocate for these precious places. They are not merely scenic backdrops but vital components of our national identity, offering profound experiences and critical ecological services. Share your unique perspective, your cherished memory, or your best-kept secret, and help inspire a new generation of explorers to discover the unparalleled beauty of the UK’s National Parks and National Nature Reserves. Your words could win you an exceptional stay and highlight the unsung wonders of these truly special places.