Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-3 No 333-157595) of Natural Resource Partners L.P. of our reports dated February 29, 2012, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Natural Resource Partners L.P. and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Natural Resource Partners L.P., included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2011.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Houston, Texas

February 29, 2012