London’s third National Nature Reserve will be officially declared in Croydon.

This week Natural England announced that a 417-hectare site along the border of Croydon and Surrey with stunning views across South London, will be the second largest NNR in London after Richmond Park.

The new South London Downs National Nature Reserve will be be jointly managed by the City of London Corporation and Croydon Council.

As a site of special scientific interest it includes the rare flower-rich chalk downland of Riddlesdown, Farthing Downs and Happy Valley.

Other sides include include Coulsdon Common, Kenley Common, Hawkhirst, New Hill and Sanderstead to Whyteleafe Countryside Area.

The area will be managed to benefit wildlife in and will be a place for Croydon residents to access nature.

Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport at Croydon Council, said: “I’m delighted the diverse and unique landscape around Happy Valley has been recognised as a new National Nature Reserve.”

To celebrate the declaration the South London Downs Discovery Day will take place on July 25 at Farthing Downs, Ditches Lane, Coulsdon CR5 1DA from 1-5pm.

Activities will include guided walks, meet the sheep, citizen science, outdoor yoga and other nature activities for all the family.