Ultimate Guide to Eco-Friendly Accommodation in the UK this Autumn
Bell | 19 August 24
Being mindful of the environment and local culture while travelling is a non-negotiable, but what about being more mindful of the hotels we stay at? This autumn, staycations are IN so let’s make it a sustainable one!
The UK is often underrated when it comes to nature, even though they have some of the most beautiful National Parks and coastlines. If you are looking for the next perfect staycation, why not make it a sustainable one.
From luxury eco-retreats to hotels built with sustainability in mind, this guide covers every corner of the UK with the best green accommodation options.
What is an eco-friendly or sustainable hotel?
There are many ways to measure just how “green” an accommodation is, however there are some common things to look out for.
First, an environmental or sustainability policy that is displayed on the website and lays out the hotels plans to minimise their impact. Another thing to look out are certifications, such as the Green Tourism ones or the Green Key.
Another great sign is if the hotel focuses on locally sourcing, especially if they offer food, as well as work together with the local community. In addition, a hotel that highlight biodiversity and conservation efforts is a great choice.
There may be some hotels that are “greenwashing”, so pretending to be sustainable to support their business without actually following through. Clear signs are any that offer unethical activities with animals, too vague language in their environmental policies and if their sustainability report is hidden.
Why is it important for hotels to be sustainable?
Travel is an incredible opportunity and one of my favourite things in the entire world, however we sometimes forget that we should leave nothing behind – not even footprints.
As travellers, we should hence be educated and conscious of our choices when booking accommodation, transport, acitivities and even the countries we visit.
Hotels may sometimes be the last thing we consider when thinking about sustainability on our trip, yet they are crucial and set the standard for the tourism industry. Their choices will affect the local community and hence either give back to them or harm them.
The same goes for the local environment – reducing waste, sourcing locally and encouraging connection with nature all ensure that the beautiful landscapes we visit still exist in the future.
Best Sustainable Retreats in the UK this Fall
Located in East Devon near the coast, this hotel is “committed to safeguarding our environment“. This includes sourcing food locally, a recycling program, reducing their carbon footprint and a low-emission boiler.
This hotel is perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful stay with lots of walking opportunities, including coastal pathways. They also have a heated outdoor pool and tennis courts.
St Columba is located on the Isle of Iona in Scotland, which you can only get to by ferry. First, take a ferry to the Isle of Mull and then a smaller one to Iona.
The entire Island is car-free, making it eco-friendly from the get-go. There are tons of places to hire a bike to get around. The hotel itself holds the Green Tourism Gold certification, meaning it meets over 80% of the sustainability goals.
There is an organic garden that provides the hotel’s food and they host a few special retreats each year. If you are after a peaceful time in the middle of nature, this is the one for you.
If you are looking for stunning views, look no further. This hotel is situated right on top of the Cornish cliffs, with each room boasting an incredible sea view. They also have a spa and restaurant focusing on locally sourced and sustainable meals.
It is an Eco hotel, meaning it is built and maintained using natural products where possible. In addition, all energy is from suppliers who use 100% renewable sources and the spa is supplied by a solar system.
Denmark Farm is a Conservation Centre that has one Self-Catering Eco Lodge on offer with six bedrooms. There are lots of trails around the house for wildlife watching, walking and connecting with nature.
Their parent charity, the Shared Earth Trust, which focuses on environmental education and biodiversity. Their aim, as well as the goal of any holiday at the lodge, is the bridge the gap between humans and nature.
Peak District is one of the biggest National Parks in the UK, offering stunning hikes through scenic nature. Losehill House Hotel & Spa offers luxury in the middle of this nature, while also focusing on being environmentally friendly and as self sustained as possible. This includes growing produce, local suppliers, home-made spa products and local staff.
The hotel itself has everyone one could need – delicious food, a spa and even an outdoor hot tub with views of Win Hill. On top of that, the location among the rolling hills of Peak District is a dream come true.
Located near the center of Nottingham, this hotel offers lovely rooms, a beautiful garden and a small exercise room. They also have their own restaurant which uses local and seasonal produce.
Nottingham itself is on a mission to become the first carbon-neutral city in the UK in the next four years and Hart’s was built to join the effort. The build is optimised for thermal performance with minimal heating or air conditioning, the materials used are known for longevity and windows are designed for maximum airlight.
This B&B is different to many others – it is adult only. It makes for a very quiet and peaceful stay in the middle of the Preseli hills.
They are commited to reducing their impact on the environment through waste reduction, composting, recycling, and the efficient use of energy.
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