This first of its kind nature reserve in West Yorkshire is making headlines after it was recently named a ‘2026 Wonder of the World’.
Parul Sharma GAU audience writer
08:00, 24 Jan 2026Updated 09:23, 24 Jan 2026
It’s a nature lover’s paradise(Image: visitbradford.com)
A magical nature reserve, the landscape of which is famously known for inspiring the Brontë sisters, is being hailed a must visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
This first of its kind nature reserve in West Yorkshire is making headlines after it was recently named one of the seven wonders of the world to visit in 2026 by renowned global travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveller.
The scenic nature reserve was created in May 2025 as part of King Charles’ series of 25 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) which aim to preserve wildlife and celebrate landscapes in the UK by offering greater protection to the unique topography within the designated areas.
Spanning 3,148 acres (1,274 hectares) — roughly twice the size of Ilkley Moor — the nature reserve links eight nature sights within the Bradford and South Pennines area, including Haworth’s famed Penistone Country Park, which was home to the Brontë sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Anne.
The scenic nature reserve was created in May 2025 (Image: visitbradford.com)
The Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve links together Trench Meadows, Ilkley Moor, Bingley Bog North, St Ives Estate, Baildon Moor, Shipley Glen, Harden Moor and Penistone Country Park.
90% of Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve’s protected area comprises priority UK habitats including wetlands, peat bogs, and heathland. 42% of this nature reserve is newly protected, with approximately 58% (738 hectares) of land designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
The first of its kind nature reserve protects endangered species of wildlife such as curlews, adders, and golden plovers, offering them better-connected habitats and greater protection.
As the only UK location on Condé Nast Traveller’s list, Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve finds itself in the company of stunning locations such as the Faroe Islands and El Salvador’s El Imposible National Park.
Praising the nature reserve, the publication said: ““One of the reigning monarch’s ongoing Kings Series of nature reserves, the Bradford Pennines Gateway is part of a nationwide initiative to protect and celebrate the UK’s natural heritage, enhance biodiversity, and give local communities better access to nature.
It’s been named a ‘2026 Wonder of the World'(Image: visitbradford.com)
“Rather like King Charles himself, there’s something stoic and un-showy about this 1,272-hectare region, resided in, and beloved by, the Brontë sisters and encompassing Ilkley Moor, Penistone Hill Country Park, Harden Moor and Bingley North Bog.”
Describing the reserve as “landscapes of unhurried drama”, the publication was all praise for its “undulating moors, wind-polished gritstone tors and views that collapse into long, moody distances broken only by the slow, stately flap of a marsh harrier”.
It added: “If Britain ever needed proof that the everyday could still surprise, the Bradford Pennines Gateway delivers with quiet aplomb.”
The glorious result of a partnership between Bradford Council and Natural England, Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve contains within its boundaries incredible biodiversity surrounded by stunning views.
This ‘2026 Wonder of the World’ is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers, making for a thrilling day out exploring the reserve’s wildlife.