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Peak District National Park Celebrates 75 Years as Island of Wildness
The Peak District National Park, the first national park in Britain, was established in April 1951. Surrounded by industrial cities, the park is an island of darkness and a playground for over 13 million annual visitors.
Established in April 1951, the Peak District National Park was the first of its kind in Britain. Its location was chosen because of its proximity to large population centres. Approximately a third of the population of England and Wales live within an hour's drive. The park's boundary is easily distinguished on satellite photos as an island of darkness amid the glow of surrounding cities. Millions of people visit the park each year, mainly from the nearby cities of Manchester, Sheffield, Derby, Leeds, Nottingham, Stoke-on-Trent, and Birmingham. According to the late Manchester journalist Brian Redhead, the hills represented a "Great Escape" for workers in industrial areas.
Key Facts
- The Peak District National Park was established in April 1951.
- It was the first national park in Britain.
- The park is surrounded by industrial cities.
- Over 13 million people visit the park each year.
- The park is located in the centre of northern England.
- A third of the population of England and Wales lives within an hour of the park.
- The park is described as an island of darkness surrounded by urban lights.