bemoreeco

The team at planet green have put together several green guides which cover city’s around the world. Over the few weeks we aim to post some of these for you to read starting off with London, which for a UK eco blog seems a natural choice. Below we have listed some of our favourite points which were made by Londoner Bonnie Alter. 

With an abundance of leafy squares, a park system that flows through the middle of the city, and walkways along the Thames River– and let’s not forget, the British do love their gardens — London is one of the greenest cities in Europe. And it looks to be getting even greener: Earth-friendly consciousness is on the rise. Online resources include Visit London, restaurant guide Sugar Vine, and TreeHugger’s London archives, which offers the latest green news.

1. Earn Tube Discounts with the Oyster Card
   Both inner city and regional transit systems are excellent in London, and a wealth of information is at your fingertips on London’s transportation Web site, Transport for London. If you’re getting around town by bus and Tube buy an Oyster Card, a transit pass that allows you to travel citywide at a lower rate. 
2. Ride Public Transportation from the Airport
   With your Oyster Card in hand, the best way to get from Heathrow Airport into the city is the Heathrow Express, a rapid train that drops you off at Paddington Station in just 15 minutes. From there you can change to a local train — or perhaps walk — to your hotel. 
3. Stay in a Green Hotel
   Eco-minded accommodations are increasingly easy to find in London. The Apex City of London Hotel is a stylish, modern spot belonging to a small chain so committed to preserving the environment that it has its own architect dedicated to sustainable design. 51 Buckingham Gate is an elegant apartment hotel with an appointed green team.
4. Go Luxury at an Upscale Green Hotel
   Upscale hotels on an environmental bent include the Crowne Plaza London St. James, a four-star hotel with Edwardian-style rooms. The Zetter is a trendy option in Clerkenwell that has its own borehole, pumping up warm water. Another option is the new Andaz London on Liverpool Street in London’s East End.
5. Dine at Green Restaurants Acorn House, Konstam, and Fifteen 
   There are plenty of green dining options in London. Gourmet options include Acorn House, which calls itself London’s first eco-friendly restaurant. Konstam at the Prince Albert, which buys all of its seasonal cuisine from within the ring road surrounding London. 
6. Grab a Casual Green Meal at Bumpkin, the Duke of Cambridge, or Pret a Manger
   For fresh food fast from Fair Trade or traceable sources, we like Bumpkin in Notting Hill, which has become a one-stop shop for all-day deli and restaurant fun. The Duke of Cambridge, dishing up organic fair in Islington, remains one of the best and most ethically run gastro-pubs in the country, let alone London. 
7. Shop at a Farmers’ or Organic Market
   Farmers’ markets and organic markets — offering typical British delicacies and artisanal foods — are on throughout the city all weekend long. Check London Farmers’ Markets for one near your hotel.

For the full guide <click here>

Come back soon to see other green city guides by green planet.