Aspen House, Herefordshire, England

How does Aspen House minimise its impact on the environment and contribute to a sense of place?

This converted 18th century farmhouse sources all of its energy from Green Energy, as well as using energy saving light fittings and being as economical with electrical appliances as possible. In order to reduce water consumption the toilets have been fitted with dual flushes, while rainwater is collected for use in the garden. Eco friendly cleaning products are used throughout the accommodation, and this includes white vinegar, borax, bicarb soda, biodegradable washing powders etc. Boxes are provided so waste can be recycled, there are composting facilities and all shopping is bought directly from the producer or independent shops to reduce packaging. Hand made hemp soap is bought from a local supplier, and there is also organic hemp bubble bath.

Food is sourced from local farmers, growers and producers within a 10 mile radius of Aspen House, with the menu depending wholly on the seaon. Guests can take part in Real Food Discovery Weekends to find out all about the local goods that the region produces, while the owners grow their own vegetables and have also created wildlife areas around the garden. All the redecorating is done using low VOC paints wherever possible, and organic cotten linens are used. Bridging the gap between England and Wales, the Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and guests are given info on arriving by public transport so as not to disturb the Valley's three separate Special Areas of Conservation.