For the environmentally conscious traveller, ditching the car is the first step towards a more sustainable holiday. This collection of six UK retreats not only encourages greener travel by being easily accessible by rail but also embraces an ethos of nature and well-being. From eco-friendly cabins to biodiversity projects, these breaks offer a chance to relax with a clear conscience.
In Essex, discover a cabin built with relaxation and nature in mind. A short train ride from London brings you to this sanctuary, which features a natural swimming pond, reducing the need for a chemical-treated pool. The owners support local businesses by providing hampers with produce from the nearby butcher, and the experience is centered on low-impact wellness activities like yoga and wild swimming.
Cornwall’s artistic hideout, while stylish, is a testament to clever renovation, transforming a disused garage into a beautiful living space. Reaching it by train, especially the sleeper service, significantly cuts your carbon footprint. The emphasis here is on local experiences: walking, cycling with local bike-share schemes, and enjoying food from nearby pubs and producers.
Northumberland offers a chance to explore the stunning coast and castles route by bike, with e-bikes available for a helping hand. The cottage in Alnmouth encourages guests to immerse themselves in the local environment, from birdwatching in the estuary to exploring traffic-free cycleways. Further south, a Berkshire hotel, while luxurious, has a strong focus on its natural surroundings, with 16 acres of grounds and walking trails along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
The star of sustainable stays is a Scottish estate near Stirling, where the biologist-run team has a 10-year plan to enhance biodiversity. The bothies are sustainably built, feature duvets made from recycled plastic bottles, and use locally sourced, organic products. Guests can take wildlife tours to learn about the conservation efforts. Finally, accessing the Lake District by train and using the extensive local bus network, like the scenic 555 route from Windermere, is a fantastic way to explore the national park responsibly.