TOP 5 UK ECO PLACES TO STAY
As the climate crisis continues to bite, it’s good to know that some hoteliers are doing their bit for the environment, therefore there are ways in which we can make our trips less damaging to the environment. One great way of doing this is to choose (or have no choice) a ‘staycation’ for your next break over flying away somewhere exotic. Another is to opt to stay at hotels with eco-friendly credentials – of which the UK, very luckily, has a fantastic selection.
If the term ‘eco-hotel’ conjures up mental images of swaying treehouses or a yurt in the middle of a field, then it’s time to think again. Here are some of our eco favourites.
HEX COTTAGE, SUFFOLK
A dreamy thatched former forester’s cottage for two, electricity-free, candlelit and set in woods overlooking its own meadow. An Esse wood-burning range in the kitchen provides all the hot water and heating, with open fires in the sitting room and bedroom.
In the kitchen, original bread ovens, brick floors and butler sinks complete this unique 'gingerbread house'. Swing open the door to discover your own herb garden, store for the all-important logs and wilderness beyond. In the candlelit bedroom be transported to a real life fairy-tale with a draping canopy above the double Hypnos bed, sheepskin rugs and a crackling wood burner to keep you toasty.
Quirky antique furniture mixed with contemporary touches make Hex Cottage a truly unforgettable destination. In the en suite bathroom the freestanding roll-top bath looks out over woodland views through leaded-light windows, perfect for long soaks. Outside, enjoy BBQs on the private terrace, explore the estate on Pashley bicycles or hold your own tournament on the tennis court open year-round (located on the main estate a short drive or bicycle ride away). Try your hand at paddle boarding or rowing on the serpentine lake, learn more about the nature that calls Wilderness home with our estate ecologist or practice your shot with world-class clay instructors. Wilderness Reserve is nestled in 5,000 acres across three river valleys in the county boasting some of the cleanest air in England, yet just a short drive from Suffolk’s celebrated heritage coast. Here, discover one of England’s finest piers at Southwold, enjoy famous fish & chips in Aldeburgh or make your own gin at the Adnams Brewery. For the adventurous, take to the waves in a rib from Southwold with Coastal Challenger, or visit Go Ape, Suffolk’s biggest tree top adventure
The Wood Store, Daylesford Farm, Gloucestershire
Set in over 2,500 acres of idyllic rolling organic countryside, Daylesford is nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds. The perfect place to escape to, a stay in our beautifully converted Cotswolds stone cottages is a time to indulge.
There is so much to explore, discover and do, at the organic Dayleford Farm in the Cotswolds. The iconic flagship location is surrounded by clover-rich pastures where the organic animals roam freely. Fresh vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked each morning from the Market Garden, which is just steps away from the award-winning farm shop & café, kitchens, Bakery and Creamery. The farm shop offers many browsing opportunities, from the Zero Waste Pantry where you can fill your own containers to the stunning collections in the Homeware and Garden spaces. Beyond the farm shop, you will find the Bamford Barn, Wellness Spa, Workshop, Cookery School and of course several options for indoor and outdoor dining and drinking throughout the day and into the evenings.
Originally the Daylesford Farmhouse, The Wood Store has been restored to a traditional Cotswolds cottage. With exposed stone walls and stripped oak beams, a generous open plan living space and three luxury double bedrooms. It is ideal for family gatherings or a country getaway with a group of friends.
SAORSA 1875, Perthshire
Ensconced by 2 acres of natural woodlands and gardens and overlooking the town of Pitlochry, Saorsa 1875 is a unique hotel dedicated to showcasing ethical luxury.
Designed for vegans, vegetarians and the plant-curious, Saorsa 1875 balances the building’s Victorian gothic origins with modern amenities to offer a unique experience. More than a synthesis of tastes, the hotel offers the perfect antidote to the frantic pace of modern living.
The 19th-century baronial house has 11 bedrooms individually styled with a calming combination of luxurious linens, bohemian styling and antique furnishings.
Downstairs, the lounge and restaurant is a cosy all-day spot for relaxing by the fire. Their menu is completely plant-based and showcases local, seasonal and foraged produce - all washed down with craft beers, a unique wine list and cocktails inspired by the region.
Meadow Keeper’s Cottage, Swallowtail Hill Farm, East Sussex
Meadow Keeper's Cottage is picture postcard pretty and sits between our two wildflower meadows. Inside it’s a carefully constructed room that can accommodate four people. There’s a double bed, two seating areas that turn into (narrow) single beds at night, a small table between them, an indoor cooking area with gas hob and sink (but no running water), a small wardrobe and, for chilly evenings, a log burner.
All bedding, towels, cooking equipment, crockery and cutlery are provided along with a cooler box for your food and drink. Their also provide rechargeable lanterns for your use.
Meadow Keeper's is your chance to completely get away from it all - the cottage is totally off-grid – there is no electricity supply!
Open the stable door, and go down the steps to your own fire pit equipped with BonFire cooking kit, and an outdoor dining area. Your water supply is located outside the cottage.
Meadow Keeper’s cottage has its own private pond – often frequented by Heron, and sometimes visited by Kingfishers – it’s the perfect place for bird watching. There’s also a little row boat for those feeling adventurous.
The Wood Barn, Old Lands, Monmouthshire
The Wood Barn sits in a quiet smaller yard off the main landscaped former stable yard. It’s a simple, cosy, private barn conversion with an open plan living area with wood burner. The double bedroom leads off the main space. A small, open sleeping loft above the central space is accessed by a staircase, and holds 2 full sized single beds for children. To the front there is a gravelled courtyard garden with a table and benches. It makes the perfect get away.