It described the area as “stoic and un-showy”, adding: “If Britain ever needed proof that the everyday could still surprise, the Bradford Pennines Gateway delivers with quiet aplomb.”
Bradford Council, which manages the nature reserve with support from Natural England, said the recognition was “a major coup”.
Paul Duncan, deputy director for Natural England in Yorkshire, said its launch last year “marked a significant achievement in our efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment”.
“By providing accessible nature near to urban areas, we are fostering a deeper connection between communities and nature, promoting wellbeing and supporting biodiversity recovery,” he said.
Approximately 90% of the area comprises habitats including peat bogs, heathlands, and wetlands, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.
Other locations to make the magazine’s list were Matera in Italy, Banff National Park in Canada, Djemila in Algeria and Richtersveld in South Africa.