Sites of Special Scientific Interest

Sites of Special Scientific Interest are the country's very best wildlife and geological sites. They include some of our most spectacular and beautiful habitats.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest are important as they support plants and animals that find it more difficult to survive in the wider countryside. The unique and varied habitats of these sites have developed over hundreds of years through management practices such as grazing and forestry, and need active management to maintain their conservation interest.

Because they are so important to our environment, our natural heritage and our scientific community, these sites are protected by law.

In Kent, there are over 100 Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and include wetlands, rivers, heathlands, meadows, beaches, moorland and peat bogs.

These diverse and fascinating habitats are under threat from development, pollution, climate change and unsustainable land management.

Natural England works with land owners and managers to conserve Sites of Special Scientific Interest and is responsible for ensuring any development will not have a negative impact on them.

Not all sites are open for public access but there are many in Kent that you can visit and enjoy.

For more information about Sites of Special Scientific Interest and to find sites near you, please visit the Natural England website.