In this article, you'll learn the following:
Caring for the environment is more important than ever. If you’re planning a trip, there are many ways to make things more eco-friendly, from sustainable travel to environmentally conscious accommodation.
Ready to get going? We’ve compiled a list of the top eco-friendly budget staycations in the South West, helping you do your bit for the planet.
What's ecotourism?
Ecotourism involves responsible travel to natural environments. Many trips are based around conserving wildlife and plant life. However, you can be an ecotourist simply by travelling responsibly and sustainably and choosing suitable accommodation.
The best eco-friendly staycations in the South West
The Green House, Bournemouth
The Green House is a stylish four-star hotel nestled in the East Cliff area of Bournemouth, just a stone’s throw from Bournemouth Beach. With 32 beautifully furnished guest rooms and a sustainable restaurant, there’s plenty to please guests.
The hotel proudly states that it’s the greenest in the UK. Energy is generated through the sun, and recycling and upcycling are part of the everyday process. Staff are trained on sustainability and all suppliers are vetted beforehand!
Price: ££
What makes it sustainable? Free EV charge points, solar-generated electricity, solid wood furniture made from fallen trees, recycling and upcycling, use of local produce.
How to get there: The Green House is a 15-minute walk from Bournemouth station, or a short ride on the number 5 bus. The address is 4 Grove Rd, Bournemouth BH1 3AX.
Dorset House, Lyme Regis
Located on the picturesque Dorset coast, Dorset House is a home away from home. This cosy Georgian building was renovated with sustainability in mind, from the building methods and materials to the water and energy usage.
The four-course breakfast is the hotel’s gem, with freshly baked bread and delicious homemade granola to fuel you for the day ahead.
Price: ££ - £££
What makes it sustainable? Environmentally friendly building methods and materials, reduced water usage on showers and toilets, 100% British green energy, recycling, environmentally friendly cleaning products.
How to get there: From Axminster, walk to Trinity Square and catch the X51 Jurassic Coaster towards Bridport. Ride for 20 minutes and get off at Kent House. The address is Pound Rd, Lyme Regis DT7 3HX.
Hotel Collingwood, Bournemouth
Hotel Collingwood is a three-star hotel just a short stroll from Bournemouth’s beach and pier. Featuring a modern restaurant and a swimming pool, you’re sure to enjoy your stay here.
The hotel has set the goal of reducing its carbon footprint and becoming more environmentally friendly by the day, so staying here will help you do your bit for the planet.
Price: ££
What makes it sustainable? Solar panels to generate energy, EV charging in car park, recycling, green energy suppliers, environmentally friendly laundry detergent.
How to get there: Catch the number 6 bus from Bournemouth station towards Bournemouth. Once you’ve arrived at Bournemouth Pier, get off and walk for six minutes to reach the hotel. The address is 11 Priory Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5DF.
Cottage Lodge Hotel, Brockenhurst
Tucked away in the heart of the New Forest, Cottage Lodge Hotel is an eco-chic boutique hotel with a cosy cottage feel. Its superb location within the open forest is the perfect escape from reality, with plenty of walking routes, pubs and cycle trails nearby. The hotel aims to become the first 100% eco-friendly hotel in the New Forest, with a focus on local produce and sustainable suppliers.
Price: ££
What makes it sustainable? Electrical car charge, local and sustainable suppliers, solar panels, environmentally friendly laundry practice, fantastic public transport connections.
How to get there: Cottage Lodge Hotel is just a seven-minute walk from Brockenhurst station. The address is Sway Rd, Brockenhurst SO42 7SH.
South Downs Eco Lodge & Camping
Located in The Sustainability Centre, South Downs Eco Lodge is a beautifully renovated building offering shared rooms at a low price. Ideal for family getaways, the onsite Sustainability Centre provides an educational course for children to learn more about the environment.
The lodge’s peaceful location in the heart of the South Downs immerses guests in 55 acres of beautiful grounds and woodland. Camping and glamping options are also available.
Price: £ - ££
What makes it sustainable? Environmentally friendly renovation with sustainable building materials and recycled former materials, energy efficiency with solar panels, sheep wool insulation and a ground source heat pump, local produce and an onsite garden.
How to get there: South Downs Eco Lodge & Camping is just a 16-minute taxi journey from Petersfield station. Or for an eco-friendly approach, why not cycle from the station? Many of our services allow you to bring your bike onboard so long as the train isn’t too crowded. The address is Sustainability Centre, Droxford Rd GU32 1HR.
The Stones Hotel, Salisbury
The three-star Stones Hotel is located on the outskirts of the cathedral city, Salisbury. With large, comfortable rooms, plus a sunset terrace and bar, there’s plenty to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
Ecotourists will be happy to know that the Stones Hotel is committed to sustainability – it has been rated “silver” by Green Tourism.
Price: ££
What makes it sustainable? A minimal waste policy that encourages recycling, plus eco-friendly and renewable resources and water that has been filtered onsite.
How to get there: From Salisbury station, walk for 12 minutes to the bus stop at Castle Street. Get on the X4 bus towards Larkhill and ride until High Post Crossroads. The hotel is a three-minute walk from this stop. The address is Highpost, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 6AT.
The Corner Hotel, London
The Corner Hotel is London’s greenest hotel, offering a breath of fresh air away from the bustling streets of East London. Its lively location is just a few steps away from some of the capital’s best street art, restaurants, galleries and nightlife.
This environmentally savvy hotel keeps tabs on everything from water consumption to CO2 emissions. Recycling is encouraged and produce is sourced locally wherever possible. The hotel also donates a portion of all its direct room bookings to local charities!
Price: ££
What makes it sustainable? 41% less water consumption and 67% less CO2 emissions than the industry average, recycling bins, organic toiletries, LED sensor lighting, locally sourced produce, rooftop beehives, solar panels, airdrop showers.
How to get there: From London Waterloo, catch the eastbound District line tube to Aldgate East, then walk for four minutes to reach the hotel. The address is 42 Adler St, London E1 1EE.
How to travel sustainably
Now you’ve found the perfect eco-friendly accommodation, it’s time to think about getting there. Here are our top tips for sustainable travel:
Travel by public transport – Cars are the least efficient mode of transportation, so why not save the hassle of driving and hop on a bus or train?
Avoid single-use plastics – Travelling can soon work up a thirst. Be sure to pack your own water bottle so you don’t have to buy the plastic kind.
Conserve water and energy – It’s easy to leave a light on or shower for a little longer than normal when staying in a hotel. But while you might not be paying the bills, respect the planet and treat water and energy usage as you would at home.
Travel with South Western Railway
Wherever you decide to stay, South Western Railway can help get your trip off to a sustainable start. Discover cheap train tickets to your eco-friendly accommodation by going off-peak. Passengers with a Railcard could save even more, while those travelling in a group could benefit from GroupSave or a Family and Friends Railcard.
Don't forget to check out SWR Rewards to unlock rewards when you travel with us. Enjoy discounts on any rewards including days out, dining deals, theatre tickets, hotel stays and much more.
