Hotels Taking Steps Towards Sustainability in the UK

The Mariners Guest House exemplifies a remarkable commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The establishment prides itself on its adherence to environmental legislation and strives for continuous improvement in environmental and social performance. It emphasizes on reducing pollution emissions, waste, and the use of energy, water and other resources. The proactive approach also extends to raising staff awareness and encouraging participation in sustainable practices. The eco-conscious standards are also expected from all suppliers and contractors. On the customer front, guidance is provided to use the products and services in an environmentally sensitive way.

Over the past four years, the guest house has made significant strides in its sustainable journey. This includes an impressive cut in electricity use by 50%, gas consumption by 50%, and water use by a third in the past 12 months. Investments have been made in solar panel technology and a heat source pump for heating showers. They use eco-friendly cleaning products, Enjo cleaning cloths for reducing allergies, and have purchased UV lights and an ozone machine. Local sourcing is prioritized, and the establishment is also a member of the Marine Conservation and Butterfly Society. In an effort to curb plastic consumption, they promote transparency in their practices to guests and other businesses. Lastly, efforts to enable 'Green Visitors' include suggestions on reducing car usage, reusing towels, conserving energy, being water wise, and participating in recycling efforts.

Sustainability is an integral facet of room2 Chiswick Hometel, forming the foundation for their commitment to combatting climate change and enhancing the environment. Esteemed as the world's first fully net zero ho(me)tel, the establishment has set an industry standard by being 100% net zero carbon from its construction, operation to deconstruction. The premise extends to building and operating entire life net zero hometels, where all the carbon emissions related to the building's life cycle amount to zero. Any unavoidable emissions are offset through a partnership with a nature-based reforesting partner in Nicaragua.

Apart from its remarkable carbon neutrality efforts, room2 Chiswick Hometel has various sustainability initiatives in place. Ultra low flow showers conserve water, while heat pumps extract heat energy from the earth for heating and water systems. The building runs purely on electricity derived from renewable sources, with onsite solar panels and ground source heat pumps providing a part of the energy. The roof is home to solar panels, a 'green roof' promoting biodiversity and insulation, and a 'blue roof' which collects rainwater to mitigate local flooding. Additionally, the establishment ensures zero waste, recycles all waste, promotes local sourcing, houses bee hives for local honey, and employs smart technology for energy efficiency. It has been awarded a Gold rating by Green Tourism, recognizing its exceptional environmentally-friendly practice.

Daisybank Cottage Boutique Bed and Breakfast has woven environmentally conscious practices into the fabric of its daily operations. The whole establishment is maintained using eco-friendly products, thus minimizing pollution. Energy conservation is prioritized, with low energy light bulbs installed throughout the property. To further reduce the carbon footprint, Daisybank Cottage encourages the efficient use of light, imploring guests to switch off lights when not in use.

A strong emphasis is placed on waste management, with robust recycling practices in place. Materials such as cardboard, plastic, glass, newspapers, magazines, and cans are all regularly collected for recycling. Energy efficiency extends to the infrastructure of the cottage itself, with recent insulation to the highest standard and the use of an energy-efficient boiler for water heating. Local shopping, supported by home delivery services and The New Forest Marque products, helps lower food mileage. Guests are urged to explore the local area on foot, bike, or horse, further promoting eco-tourism. The property also features a secure bike shed with an electric bike charger, as well as a Rapid EV charging facility for electric cars, facilitating a green mode of transport.

The Aparthotel Adagio London Sutton Point has set a high standard in eco-friendly hospitality, evidenced by its Planet 21 certification. The establishment utilizes building materials from sustainable resources and employs a design that optimizes natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and heating. Triple-glazed windows enhance energy efficiency, and LED lighting is used throughout the premises. An environmental manager oversees the implementation of green policies, with the staff trained to adhere to these practices. Further, the hotel monitors its carbon footprint using a recognized CO2 measurement tool.

Water conservation is a key priority at the property, with toilets designed for low water usage and treated wastewater being reused. Eco-friendly initiatives extend to guest rooms, which are equipped with recycling bins, and a policy is in place to change towels only upon guest request. Responsible waste management is in practice, with waste segregation and composting of organic waste. The on-site restaurant offers a vegetarian menu, and the property conducts energy audits every five years to identify potential areas for energy savings. With electric car charging stations also available, the Aparthotel Adagio London Sutton Point enables guests to maintain an eco-friendly lifestyle during their stay.

The Cabins Conwy is the perfect getaway for eco-conscious travelers who wish to bask in the raw beauty of the Conwy Valley and the majestic Snowdonia Mountains. This establishment features two romantic eco cabins that effortlessly blend relaxation with a commitment to sustainable practices. Each cabin is a masterpiece of eco-friendly architecture, boasting high levels of insulation, thereby reducing energy consumption.

Constructed from locally sourced, sustainable timber, the cabins exemplify the essence of eco glamping. The location is just as eco-conscious, with the cabins tucked away in a sprawling three-acre expanse of verdant Welsh meadow. This previously intensively farmed land has been allowed to regenerate, transforming into a natural wildlife haven. At The Cabins Conwy, guests can soak up the serene surroundings while appreciating the commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast, a harmonious blend of vintage charm and modern sustainability, truly stands as an emblem of eco-friendly hospitality. It is a gem restored meticulously over two years, with the guiding principle being eco-consciousness. This commitment is reflected in every facet of the property. Solar panels adorn the property, powering electricity, heating, and hot water, thereby reducing the carbon footprint.

Incorporating LEDs for illumination, this establishment further prioritizes energy efficiency. Sensor-based lighting systems ensure that energy usage is optimal, with lights only being on when necessary. Alongside these advanced eco-friendly features, The Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast has also conserved the original Victorian period attributes, creating a unique fusion of historical elegance and modern sustainability. This significant effort has earned it a Gold standard GreenLeaders certification, marking it as a top choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

Burnside Cottage is a remarkable testament to sustainable living, marking its transition to a greener lifestyle and business. This commitment is exemplified in the refurbishments aimed at enhancing energy efficiency; replacing old exterior doors and windows with modern, efficient ones, adding further layers of insulation to roof spaces, and switching to LED lighting. The property boasts a solar array for electricity and hot water generation, complemented by 100% green energy. Emphasis on water conservation is evident with aerated shower heads, dual flush toilets, and harvesting of rainwater for the garden.

The sustainable practices extend to their choice of food and cleaning supplies. Burnside Cottage champions ethically reared and locally sourced produce from local farms and smokehouses, while also incorporating homegrown lettuce and tomatoes into their meals. Their cleaning sprays, laundry products, toilet cleaners, dishwasher tabs, soaps and conditioners are all eco-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free, prioritizing low waste and low carbon footprints. With their comprehensive waste and recycling process, they ensure that nothing that can be recycled or composted is wasted. For the future, plans are in place to create an allotment for growing more fruits and vegetables, installing additional solar arrays and bat roosting boxes, building a larger composter, and making further upgrades to enhance energy efficiency. Burnside Cottage truly embodies a blend of luxury and environmental responsibility.

Steeped in history, Elen's Castle Hotel is a renovated 18th Century coaching inn that seamlessly marries tradition with eco-consciousness. The hotel is distinguished by its commitment to minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, a commitment recognized with a Silver Green Tourism Award.

In line with this commitment, Elen's Castle Hotel has integrated a range of sustainable features. There's a biomass boiler which provides carbon-neutral heating and hot water, reducing the property's carbon footprint. Furthermore, Elen's Castle has embraced the electric vehicle revolution with EV charging points for Tesla and type 2 electric vehicles, ensuring that eco-conscious travelers can recharge with ease during their stay in the breathtaking Snowdonia region. This way, the guests at Elen's Castle Hotel not only enjoy a memorable stay but also contribute to environmental sustainability.

Pendragon Country House stands as a beacon of eco-conscious hospitality, being one of the highest-rated green accommodations in the country. A commendable eight-time recipient of the Editor's Choice award from The Good Hotel Guide, it is recognised for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Renewable energy is harnessed from solar radiation and biomass, minimizing dependence on traditional energy sources. An array of eco-friendly practices are followed on the premises. These include the use of non-toxic cleaning products, rainwater collection and usage, provision of organic food at the restaurant, LED lighting throughout the premises, and availability of electric car charging stations.

In-room signs prompt guests to consider water conservation by opting for towels to be changed only upon request. The house's waste management system is efficiently structured, separating waste into at least three categories. The restaurant proposes a vegetarian menu, further reducing the environmental impact of food production. Furthermore, most of the ingredients used in meal preparation are locally sourced, supporting local producers and reducing carbon footprint from transportation. The implementation of an energy audit every five years ensures that Pendragon Country House maintains its commitment to energy efficiency. This comprehensive approach to sustainability is acknowledged by two major certifications: TripAdvisor GreenLeaders and Green Tourism Business Scheme.

Garden Park Guest House makes a profound commitment to environmental conservation, collaborating diligently with Green Tourism Ltd. The goal is clear - to minimize carbon footprint and foster sustainable practices. These include enhanced recycling programs and a concerted effort to reduce packaging dependency. The procurement of local ingredients and consumables takes precedence, emphasizing support for the local economy while minimizing carbon emissions from transportation.

This delightful establishment also sets itself apart by valuing resource efficiency and waste reduction. It features a homegrown herb garden, a testament to their dedication to fresh, local produce. Cleaning processes incorporate steam, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals. Moreover, a bee-friendly flower garden enhances the local ecosystem, contributing to biodiversity. Continual efforts are made in daily operations to amplify the guesthouse's positive impact on the environment. The staff at Garden Park Guest House is more than willing to discuss these practices further with interested guests, a testament to their dedication to transparency in their green initiatives.

Balmillig B&B exudes charm not only for its comfort but also for its commendable commitment to sustainability. Over the years, this 4-star abode has been continuously upgraded with an aim to minimize its environmental impact, and presently, it boasts an Energy Performance Certificate rating of C, with ambitious plans to reach a B rating through future improvements. Guests are invited to be part of this eco-conscious journey by choosing sustainable travel options such as walking, cycling or using public transport. There's ample cycle storage available, and local footpath maps and walking guides can be purchased to encourage exploration of the surrounding countryside.

The B&B exemplifies sustainable practices throughout its operations. From sourcing local and Scottish produce for the breakfast menu to using eco-friendly cleaning products, and from recycling all possible waste to growing tomatoes, grapes, and lettuce, every effort is made to lessen environmental impact. Energy consumption is monitored closely, and measures such as installing solar panels, using LED lighting, and double-glazing windows and doors have been taken. A touch of nature is added with bird feeders, bat boxes, and a pond that is a favourite among local birds and frogs. Balmillig B&B also supports local and national organizations that promote heritage, history, and environmental interests, making it a sterling example of a sustainable business.

BrewDog DogHouse Manchester, the city's first carbon negative beer hotel, has drawn praise for its trailblazing green policies and practices. Sustainability is in the DNA of this unique establishment. A distinct feature is the green roof, designed to optimize air flow, reducing dependence on artificial air conditioning. Cutting-edge, triple-glazed windows work effectively to block heat and cold, while the hotel's engagement in eco-friendly initiatives, such as reforestation and wildlife conservation, underscores its commitment to the environment.

Inside, organic food graces the menu at the restaurant, and LED lighting illuminates the premises. Measuring its carbon footprint using recognized CO2 tools, BrewDog DogHouse Manchester walks the talk in eco-conscious hospitality. Bicycles are provided for guest use, helping to reduce traffic pollution, while waste management is thoughtfully approached with separation into at least three categories and the provision of recycling bins in guest rooms. The use of disposable cups, glasses, plates, and cutlery is avoided, and towels are only changed upon request, both measures to conserve resources.

Part of the BrewDog Carbon Negative chain, the hotel offsets emissions via the Lost Forest initiative and by utilizing waste ingredients in its beer and spirits production. Uniquely, this hotel is a zero-energy building, with a net energy consumption of zero on an annual basis. Serving locally produced ingredients in meals, and offering a vegetarian alternative menu, the restaurant is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The hospitality industry could learn much from BrewDog DogHouse Manchester's successful blend of hospitality and eco-friendly operations.

The Frenchgate Restaurant & Hotel, proudly holding an EU Ecolabel certification, offers a unique intersection of luxury and sustainability. Its commitment to eco-conscious practices is evident from the building itself, constructed using materials from sustainable resources. The architectural design facilitates air flow, significantly reducing the reliance on air-conditioning. Non-toxic cleaning products are a standard part of the cleaning regimen, a testament to the hotel's focus on minimizing environmental impact while ensuring a clean and healthy environment for guests.

The hotel's practices extend to its well-reputed restaurant, serving a selection of organic food prepared primarily from locally sourced ingredients. A vegetarian menu also features as an alternative, demonstrating a recognition of diverse dietary preferences. The energy-efficient LED lighting brightens the premises, while an environmental manager ensures all eco-friendly policies are consistently upheld. With its employees trained in following environmental protocols, the Frenchgate further demonstrates a top-to-bottom approach to sustainability.

The hotel also conserves water with toilets flushing up to just six litres per flush. In a remarkable commitment to energy conservation, a state-of-the-art system is in place to automatically switch off lights and electrical appliances once guests vacate their rooms. Moreover, an energy audit is performed every five years, reinforcing the hotel's pledge to continuous energy efficiency. Notably, the hotel and restaurant exclusively utilize electricity derived from renewable and non-fossil fuel sources, reinforcing their steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability.

Tottington Manor Hotel is a beacon of eco-friendly accommodation, proudly bearing certifications from Green Tourism, Green Growth, and LoCase, a testament to their dedication to environmental sustainability. The hotel boasts a written environmental policy statement, underlining its commitment to green practices. Designed to maximize natural light, the structure contributes to reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. The use of non-toxic cleaning products further underscores the hotel's efforts to minimize its ecological footprint.

Organic food features on the menu at the hotel's restaurant, where the focus is on using locally sourced ingredients. The provision of LED lighting throughout the premises, bicycle availability for guests, and an appointed environmental manager are additional markers of the hotel's eco-friendly approach. Rooms bear signs encouraging guests to reuse towels, and toilet paper is either non-chlorine bleached or bears an eco-label. Waste management at the hotel involves separating waste into at least three categories, and a policy against disposable cups, glasses, plates, and cutlery prevents unnecessary waste. Energy efficiency is also prioritized, with a heating control system to optimize comfort while minimizing heat requirements, and an energy audit performed at least once every five years. The hotel's commitment to a sustainable future is also evident in its successful removal of all single-use disposable packaging.

Situated in the picturesque locale of Herefordshire, the Riverside Inn, Aymestrey, serves as a shining beacon of sustainable tourism. The establishment showcases the unspoiled and historic region's local characteristics with an exceptional commitment to environmental consciousness and sustainability. A considerable portion of the food and drinks served at the Inn is produced on-site in the kitchen garden, orchard, and small holding, thus significantly reducing food miles. Goods not produced on-site are sourced from local, small-scale, artisan producers, lending support to the local community and economy. A testament to their commitment to the environment is their use of Slow Food Ark of Taste ingredients, MSC certified fish, organic meats, and a robust variety of plant-based dishes. The wine list prominently features ethical, organic, small-scale producers, with special emphasis on lower food-mile English wines.

In addition to their eco-friendly sourcing policies, the Riverside Inn, Aymestrey also showcases laudable waste reduction initiatives. They've significantly minimized waste by reusing transport crates, composting, and banning single-use plastics. Conscious choices extend to their suppliers, like Hundred House Coffee and Nobel Isle, both renowned for their eco-friendly practices. In an endeavor to become carbon-neutral, the Riverside Inn promotes green practices like tree and hedge planting, staff car sharing, and offering free electric vehicle charging stations for guests. Moreover, they've shown a strong commitment to preserving local wildlife and ecology. The grounds boast native wildflowers, heritage fruit trees, and homemade bird boxes. In order to extend their environmental efforts, the Inn offers guests the option to make a voluntary carbon-neutral donation, which is then used to support green projects throughout Herefordshire.

Embodying a commitment to sustainability, The Old Vicarage prioritizes eco-friendly operations with a focus on minimizing environmental impact. Compliance with environmental legislation and approved codes of practice is a given, but the establishment goes further by actively monitoring and reducing energy, water, and other resource usage. Pollution, emissions, and waste are continually reduced, and risks associated with environmental and social issues are kept to a minimum. There's a conscious effort to participate in sustainable business practices and support other businesses in doing the same. Moreover, the local and wider community are encouraged and assisted in sustainable practices. A key aspect of their strategy includes a continuously reviewed action plan for further improving environmental and social performance.

Visitors to The Old Vicarage also have a role to play in the establishment's sustainability efforts, thanks to the Responsible Visitor Charter. This initiative encourages guests to conserve energy, use local transportation or active travel methods like walking or cycling, shop locally, and recycle. There's an emphasis on respecting nature, whether by using footpaths responsibly or not leaving litter. On-site, the inn operates with a 100% green electricity supply, energy-saving light bulbs, an environmentally friendly wood pellet boiler for heating, and wireless thermostats in public areas. An impressive recycling program is in place, which extends to food waste that is either fed into a local biomass digester to generate electricity or composted for use in the kitchen garden. The Old Vicarage is also exploring a carbon-offset scheme, making it a model for sustainable operations in the hospitality industry.

The Ivythwaite Lodge Guest House has made notable strides in reducing its environmental impact. The guest house's eco-friendly approach is manifest in its provision of free EV charging for guests with electric or hybrid vehicles in their private parking lot. It further supports eco-friendly travel by offering complimentary luggage storage for guests travelling to Windermere by train or bus and encourages exploration of the Lake District via public transport, on foot, or through sustainable local travel services. In an effort to foster local sustainability, they source homemade or local produce for their breakfast menu and hospitality trays. From home-baked bread and cakes to fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown on site, every meal is a testament to their commitment to local sourcing and sustainability.

Ivythwaite Lodge continues to build on its commitment to sustainability by eliminating single-use products and providing amenities in reusable or refillable containers. A conscientious approach to water use sees guests encouraged to reuse bath towels, and laundry is efficiently managed using an eco setting. Recycling is implemented across the board, from paper and cardboard to glass and plastic, while their waste bin liners are compostable and food waste is composted. Energy use is carefully monitored to ensure efficiency, with smart sensors and meters programming lighting, heating, and hot water, and the use of LED and solar-powered, motion-sensing outdoor lighting. Lastly, by working with Cumbria Tourism and Green Tourism, the lodge ensures its practices are evaluated and developed, with a green plan in place to achieve their future sustainability targets.

Avonpark House is a beacon of sustainable hospitality, thoughtfully designed to optimize natural light and thus reduce the reliance on artificial lighting and heating. Key eco-friendly practices include the use of a rainwater collection system, non-toxic cleaning products, and LED lighting across the premises. The appointment of an Environmental Manager coupled with thorough training of staff on environmental policies further establishes its commitment to eco-friendly practices. Water conservation is prioritized, featuring efficient toilets and a policy of changing towels only upon guest request.

Waste management is taken a step further with the establishment’s implementation of comprehensive recycling and composting programs, along with the provision of recycling bins in all guest rooms. Single-use items have been eliminated, replaced with durable, reusable alternatives. The commitment to sustainability is showcased in the restaurant, with the majority of ingredients sourced locally and a vegetarian menu option offered. In essence, Avonpark House offers an exceptional blend of comfort, quality service, and deep respect for the environment.

Saddlers B&B in West Sussex makes environmental responsibility a cornerstone of their operations, leading to an array of sustainable practices that guests will appreciate. For starters, the kitchen garden is free of pesticides, ensuring all homegrown food is organic. Their rich soil supports a burgeoning garden that even hosts fruit-bearing pear trees and a grapevine, all contributing to a healthy ecosystem where bees and butterflies thrive. A special delight is the locally sourced honey, which guests are invited to sample during breakfast.

The B&B also champions local commerce by sourcing breakfast meats from nearby Adsdean Farm, reducing food miles and supporting local farming. Waste management is a top priority, with on-site composting systems in place to recycle all compostable kitchen waste. Beyond this, Saddlers partners with local waste management organizations known for their environmental commitment and resource efficiency. In the bedrooms, single-use plastics are shunned in favor of refillable bottles for bathroom products, with the organic offerings of the award-winning British skincare company, Temple Spa. It's a blend of sustainable comfort at Saddlers B&B that aligns beautifully with the needs of the environmentally conscious traveler.