What is in the website?

All SSSIs in UK

Map of all Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in the UK

The map above is made up of only Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). All of the 7,000 and more SSSIs of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are shown in this web-app, in an interactive map.

The description of each site is also shown and can be searched for a word, phrase, or species name. These site accounts provide an overview of the country's most interesting wildlife areas and, taken together, are a treasure trove of information.

Since the 1970s and 1980s, there has been a massive decline in the UK's biodiversity. This site aims to highlight the best of what remains — a reminder of both the richness and fragility of our natural heritage.

How to use the website?

The simplest way to start is by going to Map. This will bring up a satellite image of the UK, with a mini-map for orientation.

Move the map to your area of interest. The map shows a white or black dotted outline, depending on the background, of nearby sites (within a limited distance of the centre). Clicking the red bullseye finds the nearest SSSIs, these will be listed below the map — click any name to jump straight to that site.

Mostly links are coloured orange or are dots on a map.

Use the mini-map in the bottom-right for quick navigation, or the arrow icon to locate nearby protected areas using your device's location.

Alternatively go to Searches. This offers a few options: Word or some designations.

  • Site name: search by full or partial site name. A blank search returns all sites.
  • Word or term: searches all site descriptions for your word, phrase, or species. A blank search returns all sites.

Each site is shown on the map with a small orange or blue dot. Hover to see its name, click the dot for details, or use the orange links below the map if present and explore thousands of species and site descriptions.