About The South Pennines
The South Pennines Heritage Area is a dramatic and distinctive landscape of high moorland and deep-cut valleys, straddling the Yorkshire – Lancashire border and sitting between the major city regions of Leeds and Manchester to the east and west and the Yorkshire Dales and Peak District National Parks to the north and south.
Download a map of the South Pennines Heritage Area
Because of its natural resources, the area played a critical part in the Industrial Revolution. Today, the landscape still illustrates the enormous physical impact of textile and other industries – including quarrying, water supply and transportation.
It is a major water catchment area for surrounding towns and cities, with many Victorian reservoirs built to supply the growing industrial and domestic needs.
More about people in the South Pennines
More about the Watershed Landscape
With its Millstone Grit rock, heather moorlands, steep wooded valleys, traditional farmland and variety of birdlife, the South Pennines area is an important place for geology and wildlife.
More about our habitats and wildlife
The beauty of the South Pennines has long been recognised by novelists and poets – most famously the Bronte sisters of Haworth and Ted Hughes, who became Poet Laureate. The area continues to provide inspiration for artists and writers.
Download our new leaflet
Click here to download the latest Pennine Prospects leaflet in PDF format.
Download our map poster
Click here to download our South Pennines map poster in PDF format.
Our key projects
