If you're planning a UK holiday this year or next, here are five ways you can support sustainable practices in your travel plans.

There is no way around the fact that, as with many things we do, taking a holiday has an impact on the environment. However, tourism is changing and there are now many more places making a conscious effort to lessen their environmental impact and offer sustainable services. As we try to live more sustainably, how can we plan to reduce our impact on climate change and the environment when planning to travel on holiday? Choosing sustainable tourism is a positive step in the right direction as it protects the natural environment, conserves resources and has a positive effect on local communities.

How can I plan a sustainable travel holiday in the UK?

1. Choose sustainable travel over air travel

Choosing a holiday in the UK is a great start to your plans. If your starting destination is in the UK you can almost certainly choose a more sustainable travel option such as a train or a coach to reach your destination.

2. Check your accommodation is committed to minimising carbon emissions where possible

Choose accommodation which is committed to sustainable living and minimising its impact on the environment. Check for renewable energy sources for lighting and heating and environmentally friendly sustainable options for supplies such as cleaning products and toiletries. Here at The Grain Store, we have charging points for electric vehicles. Many of our visitors use cars minimally once they have arrived, choosing instead to spend days walking across the areas of outstanding natural beauty we are surrounded by at our location on the South Downs Way. 

3. Choose a destination that supports local businesses

There is no doubt that tourism is good for local businesses and the best way to make a positive impact is to choose a sustainable travel destination which is supporting local businesses. Here at The Grain Store we love supporting local suppliers and we're lucky to live in an area which has some amazing independent businesses. Research the local area you plan to visit and you'll certainly discover some local gems, from artisan foods and local farmer's markets to independent gift stores where you can pick up a souvenir or two whilst supporting the local high street.

4. Visit eco-friendly attractions

Support eco-friendly attractions and activities during your trip. From here the most obvious is simply walking the beautiful South Downs Way by stepping out of the door at our stunning location. Further afield you can explore the Seven Sisters Country Park, Knepp Wildland rewilding project, and nearby nature reserves at Seaford, Amberley and Arundel. You could also visit a sustainably managed local vineyard or how about exploring the coastal cultural trail with cyclists and walkers, linking Bexhill’s De La Warr Pavilion, Hastings' Jerwood Gallery and Eastbourne's Towner Gallery.

5. Reduce your carbon Footprint 

When planning for your holiday remember to reduce, reuse and recycle. If you need to buy new clothes or equipment search out sustainable suppliers. Avoid fast fashion for your holiday wardrobe which contributes to greenhouse gases and man-made fibres and buy well-made items that will last many holidays. Alternatively consider borrowing things you may not use again such as an extra suitcase or two.

Once you've arrived at your destination minimise your carbon footprint by using public transport to visit local attractions or hire bicycles for sightseeing. And don't forget to recycle!

The Grain Store's commitment to sustainable travel

When creating The Grain Store our eco ethos shaped the development as we carefully considered our environmental responsibility and committed to using, where possible, green sources of energy. To do this we installed an air source heat pump, solar panels and underfloor heating to save energy by using renewable sources. 

We provide a charging point for electric vehicles, recycling facilities and environmentally-friendly products for our guests to use. 

For our interiors, we chose Sussex-based furniture and cabinet makers, as well as local suppliers for linens and home accessories. The artwork on display is by local artists, with many pieces featuring the beautiful South Downs landscape which surrounds us. 

On arrival, our guests are treated to a bottle of Sussex sparkling wine and a bottle of locally brewed Kombucha. Even our toiletries our artisan organic products made by a local company. We've also partnered with many local businesses to offer our guests a taste of Sussex from hampers to fine dining.

We aim to support communities that share our vision to minimise environmental impact and have signed up to the Get Nature Positive Pledge. In doing so we chose to continue to work together with our local community to support local businesses and environmentally friendly initiatives.

Discover The Grain Store and visit some of Sussex’s eco-friendly attractions by booking a break with us

With the South Downs National Park on our doorstep, there is plenty to explore for those who love the outdoors.

Click here for our latest prices and availability including some last-minute dates - stay@thegrainstorelewes.com

Article by mydecomarketing.com & Pip de Villiers