Looking for a different kind of holiday? Instead of giving in to your standard hotels and B&Bs, why not consider something a little quirkier? We’re talking retreats to majestic treehouses, huts, gypsy wagons and cabins. There’s no better way to enact your childhood fantasies and appreciate the finer things in life.
We’ve put together a list of alternative accommodations in the UK which are all eco-friendly, so you can enjoy experiencing the simple life without sacrificing your home comforts.
Tilleys Hut, Shaftesbury, Dorset
Set in a secluded part of the Dorset countryside, Tilleys Hut is a restored 1910 Shepherd’s Hut once home to shepherds on the Dorset Downs. Included in your stay is a locally-sourced breakfast delivered to your hut at your requested time. The lighting is powered by solar panels on the roof while a charcoal burner provides warmth on chilly evenings. Cook your own barbeque food on the chiminea on summer afternoons.
Pricing
for £170 for two people for two nights.
Cabin on the Lake, Machnylleth Powys, Wales
The Cabin on the Lake sits on the banks of a lake on Gwalia Farm. Sit outside in the wood-fired hot tub with a cool drink from the powerless fridge and become immersed in nature. Take a trip in a canoe or paddle in the cool waters then scrub up in the solar shower and make use of the composting toilet.
Pricing
from £100 per night (£130 Friday and Saturday). 2 night minimum stay mid-week and 3 on the weekend. A full week is discounted at £650, giving a night free. Get 10% discount if you arrive by bike or on foot.
Fair Oak Farm Eco Lodge Tree Houses, Sussex
Fair Oak Farm is home to two eco-lodge tree houses, catering for two people each. Hidden amongst native trees, the lodge houses are perfect for grown-ups who want to fulfil their childhood dreams. The lodges are made from sustainable timber and are fully insulated
Pricing
from £175 for two people per night
Ecolodge, Lincolnshire
Stay in this wind-powered B&B built from wood grown and harvested in Lincolnshire. Indulge in bird walking, cycling and walking. The energy sources are wind and solar power as well as wood-burner. A pick-up service can be arranged from Boston.
Pricing
from £170 Monday-Friday
Gypsy Cwtch Romany Wagon, Llandysul, West Wales
Escape mundane life by holidaying in an authentic gypsy caravan with a separate private eco cabin at the top of your own valley. Experience life completely off the grid, with solar water heating and PV panels. You’ll be surrounded by wild flowers, organic horticulture and woodland.
Pricing
from £175 for a two night weekend
Bryn Elltyd Guesthouse, North Wales
Stay in this cosy solar-powered B&B in the heart of Snowdonia. Situated 700ft up a Welsh mountain, the 1883 building is 100% carbon neutral, getting all of its energy from renewables. Includes electric, heating, kitchen, sauna, wifi, 3 charge points. Pricing: from £48 per person per night.
Prep your ‘To Do’ list
Once you’ve got your accommodation sorted, consider engaging in some outdoor activities such as trekking, horse riding, nature walks, barbequing and even boating. Explore the local area to see what’s available and discover your inner adventurer. Just remember to prepare for all weathers by investing in some outdoor gear and a good pair of wellies – just in case!
Feeling more inspired to live a Green Lifestyle?
Your getaway will teach you the ways of eco living, which may inspire you to reduce your carbon footprint in your everyday life. Rather than splashing out on solar panels, you can make small changes at home to cut down on your energy consumption and save money at the same time. Changes you can make in everyday life include washing clothes in cold water and line drying your laundry. Make use of technology to monitor how much energy you are using and plan ways to reduce your consumption accordingly.
Citations:
- Creative Commons image labelled for re-use
Sam Travers is an eco-warrior of sorts. He works for a green charity and blogs regularly with help and advice for those looking to make the planet a better place.