UK National Parks were established after the Second World War, following many years of campaigning. Groups such as the Ramblers played a crucial role in fighting for public access to the countryside, much of which had been privately owned.

 

 

A defining moment in this campaign was the Kinder Scout trespass in 1932, when walkers protested for the right to roam. This movement ultimately led to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949, which set out the framework for creating National Parks. The Act sought to protect important natural landscapes while ensuring they remained accessible for public enjoyment.

 

 

The first National Park to be created was the Peak District National Park. All Ramblers groups in the South Yorkshire and North East Derbyshire (SYNED) area regularly enjoy walking within its boundaries.

The Peak District National Park was formally established on 17 April 1951, meaning that 2026 marks its 75th anniversary. Two SYNED area Sheffield groups celebrated on the actual anniversary date with special evening events.

 

 

Sheffield 20s and 30s marked the occasion with a short walk followed by a picnic at Longshaw Estate in the Peak District.

 

 

Meanwhile, Sheffield Millennials highlighted how close Sheffield is to the National Park by walking from Hillsborough out into the Peak District. Their route followed the Loxley Valley to the Peak District Boundary Stone. As the sun set over Dam Flask, they continued around Forge Dam before finishing at the Plough, where they toasted the Peak District National Park.

 

 

There is still plenty of time throughout 2026 to continue celebrating the Peak District’s 75th anniversary. SYNED groups will be venturing into the Peak District many times over the coming months—see the walk programme Walks Programme for full details.

 

The Peak District remained the only National Park until 13 August 1951, when the Lake District National Park was designated. The Lake District, Snowdonia and Dartmoor National Parks are also celebrating their 75th anniversaries this year.