National nature reserves in England are designated by Natural England as key places for wildlife and natural features in England. They were established to protect the most significant areas of habitat and of geological formations. NNRs are managed on behalf of the nation, many by Natural England itself, but also by non-governmental organisations, including the members of The Wildlife Trusts partnership, the National Trust, and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. There are 221 NNRs in England covering 1100 km2. Often they contain rare or nationally important populations of species, such as birds, plants, insects, reptiles and mammals.

Spotlight NNRs

Natural England has selected 35 as spotlight reserves: For a full list of English NNRs, see List of national nature reserves in England