Moorland
Moorland is an area of open countryside mostly covered in a low, bushy plant called heather. In the North York Moors National Park moorland is on high land, usually over 200m above sea level, where the weather is often cold, wet and windy. These high moors are quite flat and you can see for miles into the distance.
Moorland often looks wild and empty with few roads or buildings or trees but it is a very important habitat for a group of special plants and animals.
Moorland is also important to people. Although it looks wild and empty, the moors are owned by farmers who look after the heather carefully to feed sheep and a game bird called the red grouse.
The miles of wide, open space are very beautiful and peaceful. Many people enjoy walking and cycling here, especially in the late summer when the heather flowers and the moors are covered in a wonderful pink and purple carpet.
Find out more
What's so special about moorland?
How does the National Park Authority help to look after moorland?
How can I help look after moorland?
More detailed information about moorland management
Moorland Discovery Teachers' Pack - an excellent resource for schools produced by the Peak District National Park Authority.
