Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a conservation designation in the United Kingdom. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are areas of England and Wales so designated under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act (1949). There are 41 AONBs in total, selected because of their flora, fauna, historical and cultural associations and scenic views.
The care of AONBs is entrusted to local authorities, often coordinated by AONB officers. Further protection is afforded by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
Detailed information is available from the NAAONB Website: NAAONB Factsheet (http://www.aonb.org.uk/wba/naaonb/naaonbpreview.nsf/Web%20Default%20Frameset?OpenFrameSet&Frame=Main&Src=%2Fwba%2Fnaaonb%2Fnaaonbpreview.nsf%2F%24LU.WebHomePage%2F%24first!OpenDocument%26AutoFramed)