A stunning nature reserve, whose landscape famously inspired the Brontë sisters, is being touted as a must-see for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

This pioneering nature reserve in West Yorkshire has been making waves after recently being named one of the wonders of the world to visit in 2026 by esteemed international travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveller.

The picturesque reserve was established in May 2025 as part of King Charles' initiative of 25 National Nature Reserves (NNRs), designed to conserve wildlife and celebrate UK landscapes by providing enhanced protection to the unique topography within these designated areas.

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Covering 3,148 acres (1,274 hectares) - roughly double the size of Ilkley Moor - the reserve connects eight natural sites within the Bradford and South Pennines area, including the famous Penistone Country Park in Haworth, once home to the Brontë sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Anne.

The Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve brings together Trench Meadows, Ilkley Moor, Bingley Bog North, St Ives Estate, Baildon Moor, Shipley Glen, Harden Moor and Penistone Country Park, reports Yorkshire Live.

A whopping 90% of the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve's safeguarded area consists of priority UK habitats such as wetlands, peat bogs, and heathland.

A significant 42% of this reserve is newly protected, with around 58% (738 hectares) of land recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

This pioneering nature reserve is the first of its kind, safeguarding endangered wildlife species such as curlews, adders, and golden plovers by providing them with interconnected habitats and enhanced protection.

Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve, the only UK location to feature on Condé Nast Traveller's list, finds itself in esteemed company alongside breathtaking destinations like the Faroe Islands and El Salvador's El Imposible National Park.

The publication lauded the nature reserve, stating: "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."

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."

Characterising the reserve as "landscapes of unhurried drama", the publication heaped praise on 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 concluded: "If Britain ever needed proof that the everyday could still surprise, the Bradford Pennines Gateway delivers with quiet aplomb."

The stunning Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve is the fruitful result of a collaboration between Bradford Council and Natural England, boasting an impressive array of biodiversity set against breathtaking views.

Dubbed as a '2026 Wonder of the World', this reserve is a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, offering an exciting day out discovering its diverse wildlife.