Local Area

Pateley Bridge is situated in the heart of a very special landscape designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1994, covering 603 square kilometres of land from Ellingstring to Otley and Fountains Abbey to Middlesmoor.

The landscape is dramatic and contrasting, from the grand sweeping landscapes of Upper Nidderdale with its high fells, upland reservoirs and heather moorland, to the gentler farmed landscapes of the north and east.

The area supports a rich and diverse population of wildlife with a number of internationally important sites. There is a significant amount of broadleaved and ancient semi-natural woodland remaining in the AONB which provides an important habitat for many species of flora and fauna.

Nidderdale AONB works to:

- conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area
- encourage social and economic development that contributes to the natural beauty of the AONB
- improve the management of recreation and tourism

For more information about the AONB visit our website at www.nidderdaleaonb.org.uk or telephone the AONB Office 01423 712950