Heather Moorland

BlindburnNorthumberland is renowned for its wide open moorland which covers about 70% of the National Park. Much of this moorland is grassy, particularly in the Cheviots with heather cover being sparse.

Moorland with a mosaic of grass and heather covers about 20% of Northumberland National Park and the best displays of heather can be found on the long sandstone ridge of the Simonside Hills. Here grouse moor management has produced a rich flora and fauna.

Such heather moorland habitat is of international significance as it really only occurs in Britain. Whilst previously modern farming and afforestation have removed significant areas of moorland and resulted in heather loss, more recently there has been a swing back to grouse moor management and less intensive farming.

More details about heather moorland as well as threats and positive actions to improve it can be found by downloading the Habitat Action Plan: Upland Heath (424k).

To view this document you may need to download a free copy of Adobe Reader.

The Moorland Access Advisory Group has produced The Moorland Visitor's Code which gives detailed information about how moorland is managed, the fantastic wildlife that is our upland heritage and how to enjoy it in a responsible way.