bemoreeco

BeMoreEco – Eco Summer Holidays – Part 3 – Families

June 30th, 2009 by sara

In the last in the series of Eco Holidaying in the UK, we turn our attention to family holidays and check out some fun, low carbon alternatives to the family package holiday abroad.

When it comes to eco-friendly holidays it seems families are leading the way. According to a recent survey for Take the Family, 86 per cent of parents consider the environment when they are choosing a holiday – making them more likely than any other group to opt for An eco friendly break. We have a look at some of the options for great low impact holidays in the UK

How about a 5-day environmental adventures for families of all ages at Monkton Wyld in Dorset? These holidays comprise of fun-packed, low-carbon activities including arts and crafts, games, nature awareness & bushcraft, music-making, cooking and more. The 5-day, residential holidays all have an environmental theme and are suitable for toddlers to teenagers. It’s a great way to make new friends and to take a break while the kids are suitably entertained in the fresh air. Food is vegetarian and organically-grown where possible.

Head up to the Peaks and you have Bushey Heath Farm Bunk Barns. Sustainability has been central to this holiday development in the Peak District with a proven Wind Turbine providing electricity and a Thermia Ground Source Heat Pump providing heating and hot water. There is also rainwater harvesting for flushing WCs and reclaimed building materials used throughout. Bushey Heath Farm Bunk Barns cater for small groups, family gatherings, special events or just a relaxing weekend in the Peak District!

Camping can be extremely eco friendly. How about Camping in pre-pitched Festy Tents on a family farm in the rural North Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? Then try Palace Farm in Kent.This area is ideal for cycling, walking and for those with a love of the countryside. Walk through the heart of the Downland with its beautiful wooded valleys and mixture of farmland concealing many old and interesting villages. Explore old country houses, ancient churches or relax in a quiet village pub or watch a local cricket team on the green at weekends.

How about a child friendly cottage? Visit www.childfriendlycottages.co.uk for a unique collection of child-friendly self catering holiday cottages across the UK. All the cottages and farms featured welcome children under five and have a minimum level of child friendly facilities – great for family holidays! Find a family-friendly cottage and then book direct with the owner, so pay no commission or booking fee.

There are many more options out there if you are looking for a holiday that is easy on the environment and good on your purse. Try a search on google or visit sites such as Responsible Travel or Eco Tour Directory. Many parent and child websites carry recommendations and are a good place to start.

Check out EcoTrendSpotter’s Summer Essentials Eco Buying Guide.