As we launch our Green Traveller's Guide to East Devon, Jackie King picks out a selection of characterful places to stay in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in southwest England. East Devon is blessed with a beautiful, World Heritage coastline, stunning undulating countryside, and lots of pretty towns and villages. It's no surprise to discover, therefore, that there are some fantastic places to stay scattered throughout the AONB. Whether it’s splendid self-catering accommodation, such as an Arts & Crafts mansion restored to its one hundred-year old grandeur, standing atop a cliff, a wisteria-clad B&B in a genteel town, a grande dame of a hotel or a campsite full of activities and fun deep in the rolling hills, there are places to stay in East Devon to suit every budget and style. We have chosen some of the greenest places to stay: there's a B&B with solar-powered electricity, a luxury hideaway that gives guests a discount if they arrive on public transport, and plenty of wood-burning stoves and locally-sourced breakfasts, too! Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to East Devon: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in East Devon Hedgehog Corner, Devon, England Adult-only B&B and (separate) child friendly holiday cottage that sleep 6 very close to Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall's River Cottage HQ. Just 3 minutes drive to Lyme Regis on the Jurassic Coast. Hedgehog Corner has been awarded Silver from the GTBS for their sustainability efforts. The B&B is fully insulated and all appliances are A rated. All waste is recycled as much as possible. The toilets are all dual flush. Cleaning products and toiletries are all eco friendly. Food and complimentary products are locally sourced as much as possible. Guests are encouraged to arrive by public transport or on foot by the coastal footpath. The owners support local photographers and artists by purchasing and displaying their artwork on the walls throughout the B&B. hedgehogcorner.co.uk Larkbeare Grange With lovely antiques, finest Egyptian cotton sheets, open-fires and expensive toiletries, this splendid wisteria-clad four-bedroom B&B offers a touch of class. Surrounded by eight acres of land, including picturesque orchards, Larkbeare Grange is green in more ways than one: some of your electricity comes from solar power and there are bicycles to borrow. larkbeare.net The Salty Monk This restaurant-with-rooms has six individually decorated bedrooms. King-size beds, freestanding baths and power showers, private courtyards and garden views are just some of the features you can choose. All rooms have wi-fi, tea- and coffee-making with homemade biscuits, chilled bottled water and, erm, a teddy-bear on the bed. Take him down to breakfast and you might be able to blag extra portions. saltymonk.co.uk The Nest A genuine tree house set 30 feet up an English oak tree, within an ancient broadleaved wood. Situated on a small family run farm in the Blackdown Hills, Devon, close to the Jurassic Coast, Taunton, Exeter and Dartmoor. Ideal for couples looking to escape from everyday life. Complete with fully equipped kitchen, dining, living area, bedroom, bathroom and balcony. Heated by wood burning stove. We have recently planted over 700 trees which will more than replace those taken for firewood. treeholidays.co.uk Mazzard Farm cottages Situated just 15 minutes from the Jurassic Coast at Sidmouth, half way up East Hill, are 17 acres of old apple farm, now home to six contemporary cottages, gardens, an orchard, private woods, play areas and a large courtyard with picnic tables and BBQ. It is heaven for children and relaxing for grown-ups, what with pampering treatments from Jacqueline (Indian head massages, Japanese facials) and heaps to do. Our reviewed Holly Gee said: "Ruud and Jacqueline have done their best to ensure that there is never a dull moment at Mazzard Farm. Any child would probably be happy enough to go no further than the farm for a whole week." mazzardfarm.com Upcott, the Gallery and Gospel Hall Close to the fishing village of Beer, wonderfully luxurious self-catering houses with sea views of Lyme Bay. Beautiful & peaceful setting on a quiet coastal road with no light pollution, perfect for star-gazing! Five-star luxury & green credentials. Our reviewer Paul Miles says: "Upcott is a dream holiday home combining the comfort and style of a boutique hotel with the freedom and fun of self-catering. From bedrooms or terrace, you could be lost in the view for a lifetime. Inside, Liz and Mal’s eco-friendly renovation of the property has been done with such love and care that, whether the sun is sparkling off the ocean or the wind roaring through the trees, the house resonates a peaceful contentedness." devonretreat.com Coombe Farm & Woodlands Trust Nestled in organic farmland and mixed woodland in the heart of the beautiful Devon countryside, Coombe is a charming, grade 2* listed, 16-17th century cob and thatch farmhouse in a sheltered valley offering a unique, wonderful holiday environment. coombefarmwoods.co.uk Cranberries Luxury Hideaway With air-source and ground-source heat pumps, wood-burning stoves using logs from their own woodland, a large area of solar PV panels, a 5% discount for those arriving by public transport, bikes for hire (arrange in advance), Cranberries stresses its green credentials. The five properties, Grade II listed stone farm buildings dating from the 18th century, have been sensitively restored with local labour and sleep from 2 to 16. There are 100 acres of private land to explore and views over the Axe valley towards the sea from the postcard perfect hilltop village of Kilmington. Cranberries sets a new trend in self-catering in that they offer stays of just one night and rates are the same all year. cranberrieshideaway.co.uk Lea Hill Mossy thatched roofs, wisteria-clad walls, views of rolling countryside and dinky rooms with beams and low ceilings: the six properties of Lea Hill are chocolate box sweet. Whether it’s the upstairs, one-bedroom Kingfisher apartment or two-bedroom Nuthatch, these cottages, each with their own enclosed garden, offer you a taste of remote, bucolic bliss. When you know that about 50% of the electricity comes from renewables – solar PV panels – it’s like gorging on strawberry creams with half the calories. leahill.co.uk Holyford Yurt Nestled in the beautiful Axe Valley in Devon, this family-friendly, lone yurt pitched in a smallholding offers homegrown fruit and veg, earth oven, solar showers and is close to beaches and nature reserves. Grab your backpack and jump on a train to Axminster where you can transfer to one of the regular buses from Axminster to Colyford (AVMT's 885 route). The bus stop is about a 10 minute walk from Holyford Yurt. All on its own, it stands on a family smallholding with views over the beautiful Axe valley, next to ancient woodland and close to Jurassic coast beaches. The owners grow (organically) as much as possible and operate a small local vegetable box scheme – all produce is available for free for guests during their stay. They offer home-cooked meals using their own produce and other local produce (for an additional charge), and sell homemade preserves, pickles and apple juice. They fish locally and can provide fish when they have a good catch! Holyford is the perfect base for days spent walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and swimming. The owners can provide OS maps and information on local walking and bike routes. homemadeholidays.co.uk

As we launch our Green Traveller's Guide to East Devon, Jackie King picks out a selection of gardens, animal centres and other family fun experiences in this wonderful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southwest England. The East Devon AONB has plenty of exciting activities to keep the whole family amused come rain or shine. There’s abundant wildlife to spot, rescued donkeys to pat and llamas to walk with at animal sanctuaries, narrow-gauge trains and trams to ride, and exquisite gardens to roam around. And if you're coming with children, they'll be kept entertained on fairground rides and log flumes at adventure parks dotted around the AONB. East Devon is peppered with pretty villages worth a visit. The greenest way to explore the towns and villages of East Devon is by bicycle or public transport. Honiton and Axminster are the main railway hubs for the AONB with regular services from London. Places such as Newton Poppleford, Beer and Seaton are well served with the X53 bus route that runs all along the Jurassic Coast. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to East Devon: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in East Devon Escot Gardens This family-run country house and estate of over 200 acres is a dynamic place for anyone interested in Britain’s endangered wildlife. There is a new walk-through enclosed forest area with breeding red squirrels, the first beavers to be breeding in the southwest for hundreds of years, water voles, wild boar in the ‘Jurassic Pork’ forest and more. There’s a beech hedge maze, a camp of yurts where kids can stay on a ‘wild camp’, yomping through streams, getting muddy and generally having outdoorsy, old-fashioned fun. There’s also a good restaurant, serving local food and drinks. escot-devon.co.uk Bicton Park Botanical Gardens With its four impressive glass houses, including one with an unusual curved roof, built in the 1800s and acres of gardens of various design – American, Mediterranean and Italian (dating from the 1700s), Bicton Park Botanical Gardens is a treat for anyone with green fingers. Even the youngsters will love it, as there’s a miniature railway that takes you on a one-and-a-half-mile journey around the park. bictongardens.co.uk Stuart Line Cruises With rivers, estuaries and the coast a big feature of this AONB, it makes sense to explore it from the water. A boat makes a great place from which to view the many seabirds and waders that call the wetlands of the wide Exe estuary home. Taking a cruise along the coast is a voyage through history as you pass cliff faces from different geological periods: the guides will explain the differences. In rough weather and off-season, coastal cruises won’t run but you can still cruise up the Exe estuary. stuartlinecruises.co.uk Seaton Tramway Trundling along on this narrow-gauge tramway, with its open top-deck, is a rite of passage when visiting East Devon. The half-hour, three-mile journey follows the Axe estuary from the seaside resort of Seaton to the ancient town of Colyton, with its picturesque church and interesting history as ‘the most rebellious town in Devon’. There are special bird-watching trips with expert guides, who will point out wigeon, godwit and shelduck, and there are even days when you can learn to drive the tram yourself. tram.co.uk Pecorama For a train ride with views, you can’t beat this miniature steam railway that chugs through a riot of flower-filled gardens with a backdrop of the sea. A climb above the pretty village of Beer, Pecorama has enough to keep you busy for hours: an exhibition of model railways, the mile-long ride, a restored Pullman carriage where you can relax with a coffee, a restaurant. Train buffs will love the chance to learn how to drive a steam engine, albeit a tiny one, but advance booking is essential as these days are very popular. pecorama.info The Donkey Sanctuary This is the largest donkey sanctuary in Europe, perhaps the world? Thousands of retired mules and donkeys have passed through its gates. They enjoy a good fuss and are friendly old things. You can visit for free and combine some animal magic with walks through the rolling countryside. thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk Beer Quarry Caves The understated entrance belies the fascinating facts you learn while exploring this warren of man-made caverns. The Romans were the first to quarry Beer stone, perfect for masonry. Romans, Saxons, Normans and 20th-century quarrymen carved support arches of different shapes, signed their names and left objects behind. While exploring a small part of the 72 acres of man-made caves that are accessible – a fraction of the total – your guide will tell you amazing and moving stories. Hear how a team of 26 horses carted away a 24-ton block for Exeter cathedral, and how the church was involved in smuggling and deceit, and much more! beerquarrycaves.co.uk/index.html Escot Gardens This family-run country house and estate of over 200 acres is a dynamic place for anyone interested in Britain’s endangered wildlife. There is a new walk-through enclosed forest area with breeding red squirrels, the first beavers to be breeding in the southwest for hundreds of years, water voles, wild boar in the ‘Jurassic Pork’ forest and more. There’s a beech hedge maze, a camp of yurts where kids can stay on a ‘wild camp’, yomping through streams, getting muddy and generally having outdoorsy, old-fashioned fun. There’s also a good restaurant, serving local food and drinks. escot-devon.co.uk Walking, cycling and wildlife watching in the East Devon AONB With its gently undulating hills and 28 miles of stunning Jurassic coastline, the East Devon AONB has plenty of opportunities for lovers of the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid cyclist, a keen rambler, or prefer to laze away the afternoon on a beach with the family, you won't be stuck for ideas of things to do. There are plenty of cycle routes in the AONB which cut through forest, valleys and farmland, perfect for both cycling enthusiasts and families, many of them linking up the towns and villages of the AONB. And with so much marshland and the estuaries from the four rivers - the Exe, Axe, Sid and Otter - the East Devon AONB is a great place to spot wildlife. Bring the binoculars and look out for redshanks and warblers; you might even be lucky enough to catch a sighting of an otter or beaver!

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to East Devon, Jackie King visits this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (designated in 1963) that's home to a spectacular stretch of coastline. Part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, it covers 103 square miles, 29 parishes and a geologically engaging stretch of the South West Coast Path. Its borders reach towards Exmouth at the most westerly, the fossil beaches of Lyme Regis in the east and the countryside south of Honiton that runs under the A35; north of the A35 is the neighbouring AONB of the Blackdown Hills. The magically varied landscapes include wooded valleys, swathes of wild heathland, breath-taking cliffs and pretty coastal and inland villages and towns. It’s an area that on the one hand celebrates its rich farming heritage, yet also attracts and welcomes new businesses, many involved with food and drink and arts and crafts, with owners that bring a contemporary dynamism to the historic area. There is a nostalgia-inducing flavour to holiday breaks here… an Enid Blyton-type is evoked by glorious days spent dipping in rock pools, fishing for mackerel, wildlife spotting, fossil-hunting or cycling through the quiet lanes with a picnic lunch in your pannier. For those who like their leisure time spiced with a challenge there is a 40-mile way-marked walking route that takes ramblers through some hidden gems and swoops up to glorious viewpoints. The route runs from Exmouth to Lyme Regis and passes through eight villages and over five rivers. In the north you explore the Farway valley, the Bronze Age landscape of Farway Common, a nature reserve and the Roncombe Valley. You’ll find stacks of information on eastdevonway.org.uk that will save you hours of plotting and planning yourself. Where to stay East Devon is blessed with a beautiful, World Heritage coastline, stunning undulating countryside and lots of pretty towns and villages. With its reputation as a perfect holiday spot, it's no surprise to discover an astounding variety of places to stay. There are many off-the-beaten track places so you can always find something to suit your budget and style. We have chosen some of the greenest places to stay: there's a B&B with yoga classes, a luxury hideaway that gives guests a discount if they arrive on public transport and plenty of open fires and locally sourced breakfasts, too! The award-winning Salty Monk is 16th century and renovated as a boutique B&B. There’s a sauna, fitness studio and the chance to join in with a yoga class. It is a restaurant with rooms and the foodie side has been awarded two AA Rosettes and serves the best local produce. There are dog-friendly rooms, too. Like something a little quirky? Then The Nest is for you. It’s a fully equipped snug treehouse where you sleep 30 feet up an English oak tree. It’s in the Blackdown Hills just above the East Devon AONB and offers a peaceful escape from reality. There’s even a balcony/veranda looking onto your own private wood, so buy some local beer or cider and prepare for a peaceful sunset. For something spot on for families, come and join in the Mazzard Farm magic… we salute owners Jacqueline and Ruud for encouraging holidaymakers to arrive by public transport and, if the whole party does, they’ll offer a free shuttle to and from Honiton station. There are 6 lovely cottages arranged around a convivial courtyard and 17 acres to explore of woodland, fields, garden and orchard. There is a play area, paddocks and, most likely, playmates to entertain. Children won’t want to leave! Where to eat East Devon has become something of a magnet for gourmands. Seafood, such as Exe river mussels and freshly caught fish, as well as dairy products, naturally play a big part but so too does Red Ruby Devon beef and local wine. Any chef worth their (West Country) salt is making the most of local ingredients and you can sample their menus in fancy hotels with starched linen and silverware, or in country pubs with pasties and pints. Devon is, of course, famous for its cream teas, and we have picked some of the best cafés and tearooms where you can indulge in freshly-baked scones with teetering piles of clotted cream. If you are self-catering or in search for picnic ingredients, stock up on local produce from farmshops and delis. Here, you’ll find some of the best places in the area. Millers Farm Shop is an institution among locals and visitors – it is the perfect place to find something out of the ordinary and all the food and wine seems to be impeccably sourced, thanks to the owners’ regular trips to French markets for authentic cheese and fresh produce. They have been selling and growing for over 40 years and we recommend giving yourself time and perhaps exploring the store without little ones in tow. When you’ve stocked up on Lyme Bay fresh fish, French cheese and limited-edition wines, you can sneak in a cheeky cream tea before heading back. Fancy the Red Ruby Devon beef favoured by Rick Stein? Then head over to East Hill Pride Farm Shop that is choc-a-block with great quality food AND has a rather lovely view for shoppers, too. Their farm is one of the few in Devon that has an on-site ECC-approved abattoir and not surprisingly they operate a thriving box scheme delivery. Dukes Seaside Inn prides itself on being a Sidmouth mainstay and a lasting presence on the town’s esplanade. Drop in for a drink: they sell Sandford Orchards Devon Red and Devon Dry at the bar and Salcombe Gin and have a rather large menu with plenty of pub grub staples. If you have the family with you, a great spot for breakfast or afternoon tea is the Honiton Garden Centre & Restaurant – local sausages for brekkie and home-made cakes for an afternoon stop-off. Plenty of retail therapy too in the beautifully laid-out garden centre. For a fish-based treat, Neils Restaurant has a daily changing menu dictated by the fishermen’s haul. It’s one for a special occasion rather than a fuel-up-the-family affair. Neil has years of experience of creating a network of trusted suppliers and the results look pretty enticing! For tea-and-cake types there is an old working watermill to visit at Otterton Mill where you can see flour being milled and get to taste the result with a Devon cream tea on the terrace. The Sunday Times claims it is ‘one of the best places in Britain for afternoon tea’. Where to visit The East Devon AONB has plenty of exciting activities to keep the whole family amused come rain or shine. There’s abundant wildlife to spot, rescued donkeys to pat and llamas to walk with at animal sanctuaries, narrow-gauge trains and trams to ride and exquisite gardens to roam around. And if you're coming with children, they'll be kept entertained on fairground rides and log flumes at adventure parks dotted around the AONB. East Devon is peppered with pretty villages worth a visit and the greenest way to explore is of course be foot or by bicycle or public transport. Honiton and Axminster are the main railway hubs for the AONB with regular services from London. Places such as Newton Poppleford, Beer and Seaton are well served with the X53 bus route that runs all along the Jurassic Coast. For families there are few better days out than a visit to the world-famous Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth. Pecorama will delight train buffs young and old and the climb above Beer with the sea in the background is memorable; there is even a chance to drive the train yourself. One of the country’s leading animal conservation charities in the UK is the Wildwood Trust and a sister site to the Kent centre opened at Escot estate in Devon in 2015. Find a walk-through enclosed forest area, breeding beavers and a camp of yurts. When little (or old) legs get tired, there is Stuart Line Cruises to come to the rescue… trips around Exmouth and Sidmouth give views of the Jurassic Coast with no effort at all. You can even have a cream tea while taking in the beauty. Things to do With its gently undulating hills and 28 miles of stunning Jurassic coastline, the East Devon AONB has plenty of opportunities for lovers of the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid cyclist, a keen rambler, or prefer to laze away the afternoon on a beach with the family, you won't be left high and dry. There are plenty of cycle routes in the AONB which cut through forest, valleys and farmland, perfect for both hard-core cycling enthusiasts and families, many of them linking up the towns and villages of the AONB. For route ideas check out the East Devon AONB cycling page. With so much marshland and the estuaries from the four rivers - the Exe, Axe, Sid and Otter - the East Devon AONB is a great place to spot wildlife. Bring the binoculars and look out for redshanks and warblers; you might even be lucky enough to catch a sighting of an otter or beaver! The Jurassic Coast is alive with possibilities for days out for nature lovers, fossil hunters, swimmers and walkers. In August the coastal town resounds to the alternately melancholic and cheery beats of folk music during its famous Folk Festival; every gathering place, be it pub, café, community hall or town square, is packed with merry-making bands and music fans. To the east of the AONB, just before Lyme Regis, discover the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve - it is a significant coastal site and most safely explored at low tide, so take care to check locally about conditions. For a different view of the AONB altogether, choose your vessel and head out to sea. You’ll find plenty of excellent adventure companies that will accompany you or hire out a kayak, boat, canoe or paddleboard. There are many companies that operate along the coast, including Jurassic Paddle Sports in Sidmouth. Getting to the East Devon AONB by public transport It’s easy to get to East Devon by public transport. There are frequent and regular trains and coaches to the major hub of Exeter, from where you can reach smaller towns such as Axminster, Honiton and Exmouth. Within the AONB, there is a good network of buses serving coast and countryside, villages and footpaths. Bus stops have individual codes and you can text an enquiry about the next bus to arrive at that stop. There are spectacular footpaths and well-signed cycle tracks if you want a more invigorating way to explore the AONB. Getting there Southwest trains has regular services from London Waterloo to Axminster, Honiton and Exeter, from where there are onward services to Exmouth. You travel through some beautiful pastoral scenery on the way, and, on the branch line to Exmouth, the track hugs the Exe estuary. National Express has coach services to Exeter from London and Bristol. Getting around Once in the East Devon AONB, there are plenty of bus routes connecting the major villages and towns. One of the best is the X53 bus, Jurassic Coast route, a frequent service that is perfect for exploring the area and good for walkers wanting to do one-way hikes. It runs the whole length of East Devon on its 4.5-hour journey from Exeter to Poole in Dorset. Most services are double-deckers, giving you excellent views above the hedgerows from the top deck. More information: bus routes within East Devon. There’s even a narrow-gauge tramway that runs for three miles between Seaton and Colyton, a fun way to get around for a bit of sightseeing. Otherwise, there are miles of footpaths and cycle routes, sometimes car-free. Hire bikes at places such as Soanes Cycles in Colyton or take your own bikes on the train for no extra cost. For more information about visiting East Devon, including where to stay, find local food and drink, attractions and low impact activities, see Green Traveller's Guide to East Devon AONB

Our guide to travelling to and around The Broads without a car. For somewhere that feels so remote, the Broads is surprising easy to get to by public transport, particularly on the train via Norwich. Once you're there, the best way to see the Broads is from the water. It's also a great place to go walking and cycling thanks to the relentlessly flat terrain and manageable distances to the most scenic spots. By Train: The Broads’ proximity to the city of Norwich puts it within easy reach of mainline destinations across the UK. Services from London run directly to Norwich via Ipswich and Colchester, and various other mainline services from the rest of mainland Britain run to the city, sometimes requiring a change in nearby Peterborough. There are also some services from London (Liverpool Street) to Great Yarmouth in the summer. The main gateway to the Broads themselves is Hoveton and Wroxham station, barely ten minutes from Norwich on a branch line which also links the North Norfolk coast. The stations between Lowestoft (also linked to London Liverpool Street) and Great Yarmouth and Norwich are also handy for various destinations within the Broads. Greater Anglia’s clear route map of the region shows how the destinations all connect up. By Coach or Bus: There are regular National Express services from various UK destinations to Norwich, plus Great Yarmouth and Acle, from where you can take local services to destinations across the Broads. This is complemented by Megabus services to Norwich from London. By Train: There are two branch rail lines running through the region - the Bittern Line, which runs from Norwich to Cromwer and has stations at Salhouse, Hoveton & Wroxham and North Walsham, and the Wherry Line from Norwich to Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, stopping at Brundall, Acle and Reedham. Other stations include Buckenham, Cantley, Haddiscoe, Somerleyton and Oulton Broad North, as well as limited services to the remote Berney Arms. For an overview of trains in the Broads, see Greater Anglia’s network map (the Broads area is in the top right-hand corner). By Bus: The Broads’ bus network is somewhat limited, but with a bit of foreward planning it is certainly still a viable option for getting around the area. Anglian Bus runs the A47 from Norwich to Great Yarmouth via Brundall, Blofield, and Acle; the 146 from Norwich to Beccles via Loddon; and the 001 from Norwich to Surlingham and Loddon. First Norfolk & Suffolk runs the X2 Norwich – Lowestoft service; the 12/12a from Wroxham to Stalham; and various services in the Norwich and Lowestoft areas. By Boat: The most interesting way to travel around the Broads is of course, to travel on them. Exploring the Broads by boat allows you not only to get around but to see what makes the area so special. Many places are indeed only accessibly by boat. You can hire a boat (and sometimes canoes) from most of the towns and villages along the Broads. The Broads’ website offers a map featuring scheduled and chartered boat operators to help you plan your travel by boat. Perhaps the best-known and most useful is the hourly ‘Electric Eel’ service, run by the Broads Authority, which includes a guide pointing out local wildlife. Cycling The Broads’ backcountry is gentle and flat, offering mile after mile of quiet country lane perfect for cycling. There are a few main roads to content with, but with a little local advice and a good map, cycling can be one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to get around. Most mainline train services have allocated spaces for bicycles, however these are limited so you should always reserve your spot in advance, by calling up the train operator, or heading to your local railway station ticket office. Few local bus services allow you to take bikes on them, but some boat operators will – contact them in advance to check. If you want to hire a bike once in the Broads, there are several fantastic providers who will give you local advice, information, maps, accessories and more, as well of course as your new two-wheeled friend. Broadland Cycle Hire, less than a half hour’s walk from Hoveton and Wroxham station, is an ideal place to rent a bike and get a whole host of useful maps and friendly advice, and there are a range of other bike hire centres across the Broads: Cycle Hire at Outney Meadow Caravan Park Cycle Hire at the Blickling Estate Sea Palling Cycle Hire Waveney River Centre Cycle Hire / Cycle Hire at Clippesby Hall / Cycle Hire at Riverside Tearooms / Salhouse Broad Cycle Hire / The Canoeman There are few dedicated cycle routes in the Broads, but the Broads by Bike provides a range of clear, colour-coded downloadable route maps to help you make the best of the area. The long distance Wherryman’s Way cuts a swathe across the Broads, whilst to the west, the Bure Valley trail offers a cyclable route from Hoveton & Wroxham station. You can get more route ideas and information for cyclists in the Broads and beyond from Sustrans. Maps and further information For downloadable maps of the Broads, and links to buy further maps and publications, head to the Broads maps and publications page. Alternatively, you can grab a map, as well as getting the best local advice and information at one of the Broads’ visitor information centres. They are located in Hoveton (close to Hoveton & Wroxham station), How Hill, and Whitlingham. There's also a huge range of information on Enjoy the Broads, and Greentraveller is currently working with the Broads Authority to produce the Broads App: a downloadable application to help visitors get the most of their time in the Broads.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Broads, Jackie King picks out a selection of hotels, B&Bs, campsites and boats in this glorious National Park in east England. You can come to the Broads for as little or as long as you like. There are plenty of boatyards that will hire a craft for a long weekend, out of season at least, and many that adhere to the greenest standards – crucial in an environment that is as delicately balanced as The Broads. Or you can stick to dry land and dip in and out of the water as much as you like. We’ve picked the cream of the region’s accommodation, from self-catering in an old windmill to living it up at some lovely boutique hotels, each of which makes some sort of environmental difference, whether it’s in assiduous local-sourcing of the produce they serve to composting and recycling or installing self-sustaining sources of power. Wherever you stay you can be sure you will be helping to ensure that this beautiful place is here to enjoy for years to come. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Broads: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to say in the Broads Norfolk Mead Hotel, Norfolk Set in an acre of landscaped gardens with a lake and abutting the River Bure Norfolk Mead is a gorgeous country pile with Suites, Deluxe and Standard rooms in the hotel and the Cottage & Summer House in the grounds. Dog and children friendly. norfolkmead.co.uk Carricks at Castle Farm, Norfolk A splendid guest house on the family farm sitting on the banks of the River Wensum, home of the Carrick family for almost 100 years. Stroll along the beautiful beaches, visit the County's fantastic sights and retreat into the serene countryside. carricksatcastlefarm.co.uk Dairy Barns, Norfolk, England Dairy Barns is B&B accommodation on the outskirts of Hickling village, within touching distance of the coast at Sea Palling, 6 lovely B&B rooms and 3 suites, plus two self-catering cottages on what remains a working farm. Locally sourced breakfasts! dairybarns.co.uk The Moorhen, Horning, Norfolk Broads The Moorhen, a high quality bed & breakfast, located next to the River Bure, is less than a minute’s walk from two riverside pubs and an outstanding fish restaurant, in the heart of the beautiful village of Horning, the jewel of Norfolk Broads. themoorhenhorning.co.uk Boats at Hunter's Yard, Norfolk Broads, England Hunter's Yard, a charity dedicated to preserving and celebrating the classic wooden Broads yachts and half-decker sailing boats, rents them by the day, week or more for you to stay afloat, or take a skippered sail to give you a taster. huntersyard.co.uk Boats at Richardson's, Stalham, Norfolk Broads Established for over 60 years, and still family-owned and -run, based in the small town of Stalham, Richardson’s has the largest fleet of motor cruisers on the Broads available at a mind-boggling range of prices available for day or week long hire. richardsonsboatingholidays.co.uk Boats at Norfolk Broads Direct, Wroxham Norfolk Broads Direct, based in Wroxham, offers luxury boats sleeping 2-11 people, allowing you to explore the 125 miles of beautiful waterways in comfort and style, awarded the Green Boat Mark, they are doing their bit to be as eco as possible. broads.co.uk Cranmer Country Cottages, Norfolk, England These award-winning self-catering converted barns are a great base from which to explorer the stunning north Norfolk coastline. All heating and water comes from the site's own renewable resources. Luxurious and green with tennis courts and pool. norfolk-luxury-cottages.co.uk Clippesby Hall, Norfolk Broads Near the river at Thurne, this site pretty much has it all: a wonderful location with lots of trees for secluded camping, and a position that’s perfect for cycling, walking and boating, its own pub and pool bike rental and cafe. clippesbyhall.com Mill Farm Eco Barn, Norfolk Luxury eco barn, near a sandy beach, & The Broads. Huge open plan, vaulted ceiling living room & 4 large bedrooms, south facing courtyard garden, free bikes, games room. Shetland ponies and a nearby a seal colony. Fresh eggs & kitchen garden. millfarm-ecobarn.co.uk West Lexham, Norfolk, England A creative, sustainability-focussed social enterprise offering a unique immersive learning experience as well as a beautiful rural setting to relax, eclectic accommodation including tree houses to suit all budgets and an open, friendly vibe. westlexham.org For more information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Norfolk Broads

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Broads, Jackie King picks out a selection of natural spaces and visitor attractions in and around the Broads, Norfolk. There’s so much to do on The Broads it’s hard to know where to start. Kids are well catered for at Bewilderwood and on the Bure Valley Railway, while Fairhaven Water Gardens is the Broads writ-small, a pristine piece of wet woodland edging its very own stretch of water at South Walsham Broad. You can mug up on the Broads at Stalham’s Museum of the Broads, or head out to Horsey to visit a classic windpump, afterwards taking a boat trip or strolling over to the coast to spot seals.There are grand houses and gardens, including the wonderful Somerleyton Hall estate in the southern Broads and stunning East Ruston Vicarage Garden on the northern fringes. You can also spot birds at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen, not to mention the various nature reserves dotted around, some of which are the only way to explore specific protected Broads, like Hoveton Great Broad and Upton Broad. Whatever your interests, you will not be bored. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Broads: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in the Broads Hickling Broad The largest of the Broads, and perhaps the prettiest, Hickling Broad lies in the upper reaches of the Thurne river. It’s a designated nature reserve, administered by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, and their visitor centre and car park lies on the Broad’s eastern side, where you can buy tickets to enter, following marked tracks that take in stretches of reedbed, woodland and, of course, the banks of the Broad, where there’s a bird-hide on stilts. Boat trips run from a landing-stage down on the Broad and take in a 60ft-high treehouse. norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk Horsey Mere and Windpump Horsey Mere is as far east as you can go and still be in the Broads, a lovely expanse of water which John Betjeman celebrated in his poem East Anglian Bathe, and which is most easily viewable on on one of Ross Warrell’s hour-long wildlife-spotting boat trips (www.rossrivertrips.co.uk), which leave Horsey Staithe five times a day; they also run early-morning bird-spotting trips for the super keen. Right by the cut that leads to the Mere is Horsey Windpump, an early twentieth-century replacement of an earlier drainage mill that is now owned by the National Trust. You can climb to the top deck and look out over the Mere and fens, viewing various displays on the way – Arthur Ransome featured Horsey in a number of his stories and gets a mention, as do the memorable storms of 1938, which flooded most of the area. Once you’ve seen the mill you can either have a cuppa at the café by the staithe, or, more energetically, hike across the fields to the coast and back: a bracing walk that could take in the excellent Nelson Head pub, and best, believe it or not, between November and January, when you can’t get onto the beach because of the large local seal colony’s new pups – a wonderful sight. nationaltrust.org.uk/horsey-windpump Norfolk Wildlife Trust The NWT run several of the nature reserves in the Broad, including Ranworth Broad, Hickling Broad, Upton Broad and others, and they run well-stocked and managed visitor centres at Ranworth and Hickling. norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk Salhouse Broad Just outside the village of Salhouse, which you can reach by bus, there’s a signposted trail from a small car park down to Salhouse Broad, an easy stroll that finishes up at one of the prettiest of the northern Broads – just a wider stretch in the Bure really, shielded from the main body of the river by stands of trees. There are moorings here, and riverside paths leading down to a small children’s playground by the shore. It’s also a lovely spot to rent a canoe, and you can also camp if you get permission first – it’s a magical place once the sun starts to go down and the day-boaters have departed. It’s also the place to take the boat across to Hoveton Great Broad. salhousebroad.org.uk Strumpshaw Fen Just across the railway line on the edge of Strumpshaw village, the RSPB reserve of Strumpshaw Fen is one of the best places to spot birds in the Broads, and is set up with well-maintained trails that take you through a variety of habitats – woodland, meadows and reedy fenland, all viewable from various hides, one at reception, and two others around the reserve. It’s a glorious location, and it’s worth taking the path through the woods and then along the river into the fenland area to get the full experience. There’s a car park on one side of the railway line and the fen is on the other, though ironically the nearest stations are at Brundall and Buckenham, 2km up and 1km down the line respectively. Or buses run to Lingwood, also 1km away. rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/strumpshaw-fen/ The Waterside Just east of the main body of the northern Broads are the so-called Trinity Broads, made up of Rollesby, Filby and Ormesby Broads. They’re a protected area, closed to almost all boat traffic, and the only way to see them is by way of boat trips they run or the rowing boats they hire at the Waterside complex, on the main A149. There’s also a large, modern café-restaurant that serves both excellent lunches and evening meals, and has a lovely decked outside terrace overlooking the Broad – a nice place to wind up of an evening. thewatersiderollesby.co.uk Barton Broad A couple of miles north of Horning, Barton Broad lies at the head of the river Ant, one of the largest of the Broads and looking better than it has done for some time due to a recently completed clean-up – the ClearWater 2000 project – which dredged the equivalent of 160 swimming pools’ worth of silt and algae out of its waters over a period of three years. Its wildlife has recovered as a result and it’s now home to all manner of underwater plants and wildlife that include herons, kingfishers, common terns and marsh harriers, and the odd otter and mink. There’s a carpark, and from there it’s a half-mile or so walk across the fields to the Broad, where a boardwalk winds down to the water. norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/wildlife-in-norfolk/nature-reserves/reserves/barton-broad-and-marshes Upton Broad and Marshes Around three miles north of Acle, Upton lies just to the south of the broad of the same name, a lovely location which is managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and viewable on foot by means of a series of well-maintained footpaths. It’s one of the best places in the UK to see dragonflies, voles, even otters, and offers great walks, linking up in a nice circle with the riverside path that leads north up to Thurne Mouth. norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/wildlife-in-norfolk/nature-reserves/reserves/upton-broad-and-marshes Wheatfen Broad Just south of the river Yare, Wheatfen Broad was the home of the naturalist Ted Ellis while he was keeper of the natural history collection at Norwich Castle. He lived in the thatched cottage by the entrance to the reserve, and was one of the most vocal chroniclers and advocates of the Broads. Since his death in 1986, the marshes and watery channels of Wheatfen have been a nature reserve, with series of paths down to the river – about an hour’s walk there and back – that give you some appreciation of what Ted and his wife Phyllis (who lived here until her death in 2004) saw in this magical place. wheatfen.org Winterton-on-Sea Broadland stretches to the coast at a couple of very appealing points, and one of them, Winterton-on-Sea, is easily the best seaside village in the region, with a great sandy beach (open to dogs year-round) and some lovely windswept dunes. It’s not uncommon to see seals basking in the waves offshore, and the beach is home to a newly restored colony of little terns, watched over by a constantly manned RSPB hut. There’s a (pay) car park and also an excellent beach café that’s open all year. wintertononsea.co.uk Bewilderwood This popular homespun fantasy world is one of Britain’s most unusual attractions for children. Based on a series of books by local author Tom Blofeld, it brings the watery environment of the Broads to life for kids – both as a make-believe land and an overgrown adventure playground full of rope bridges, zip wires and treehouses. You get around by way of walkways and forest paths, and a boat takes you around a tiny broad where Mildred the lisping vegetarian crocklebog blows water at you. A great mixture of fantasy and adventure that has something for kids of all ages, it also has an admirably green policy on all aspects of the park’s management: everything is made of wood, rope and other sustainable resources, the boats run on electricity, and the whole place is a good, old-fashioned day out. bewilderwood.co.uk Fairhaven Water Gardens Just outside South Walsham, Fairhaven provides an easy (and wheelchair-accessible) glimpse of the swampy woodland that makes up so much of the Broads and is so often inaccessible unless you’re travelling by boat. There is a variety of paths that lead through the grounds of the Fairhaven estate down to the estate’s private section of South Walsham Broad, where you can take boat trips around the Broad or to St Benet’s Abbey. They have a decent café and usually a great selection of plants for sale, and they hold a GBTS Gold award for their environmentally conscious approach to the business, which includes installing a ground source heat pump and low-energy lighting in the visitor centre, rainwater harvesting, traditional coppicing and a sustainable approach to the management of waste. fairhavengarden.co.uk Wroxham Barns About a mile north of Hoveton, it’s an easy twenty-minute walk from the railway station to Wroxham Barns, a popular local attraction that has plenty for children and adults alike – various craft shops and galleries, a food store, garden centre and micro-brewery, Uncle Stuart’s, selling its products direct (along with other local beers). It’s also home to a small “junior farm” with goats, sheep, cows, pigs with lamb Feeding during the half-term school holidays and donkeys to pet and feed, a small funfair and mini golf course, and an excellent restaurant which is one of the area’s best bets for lunch, with an emphasis on quality local produce – one of several sustainable aspects of the business, which also includes water-less urinals and excellent recycling. Overall, a great example of a mainstream business that’s is trying hard to be both sustainable and successful. wroxhambarns.co.uk Waveney River Centre The Waveney River Centre is an oasis of activity in what truly feels like the middle of nowhere down in the southern Broads. It’s many things rolled into one: a campsite, right by the water, with a heated indoor pool, shop, café and its own pub, as well a few holiday lodges; it offers moorings to hire boats and has a private marina; and it rents day boats and canoes from what must be one of the best locations from which to explore this part of the Broads national park – and which also offers plenty of opportunity for walks. Its green agenda is clear: power is partly supplied by 29kw of solar panels, it has an energy-efficient pool and low-energy lighting throughout, pretty much everything is recycled, and the centre has won the David Bellamy conservation award 3 years running. But maybe the best – and greenest – thing they have done is to reinstate the foot ferry across the river, which not only gives access to beautiful Carlton Marshes and Oulton Broad on foot, but has also made the car journey from Lowestoft to Waveney about six times shorter. waveneyrivercentre.co.uk East Ruston Vicarage Garden Not formally in the Broads, but near enough, and in any case East Ruston is worth an honourable mention for the sheer dogged ambition of its creators, Alan Gray and Graham Robeson, who created this wonderful horticultural fantasy from scratch in the early 1970s. It’s everything a garden should be – calming, surprising, and so cleverly planned that even its increasing popularity has not diminished its charms, with the crowds easily swallowed up by the garden’s nooks and corners. Once you’ve emerged, you can enjoy tea and cake at the café and maybe buy a plant or two before you leave. e-ruston-oldvicaragegardens.co.uk Woodforde’s Brewery Situated on the edge of the pretty village of Woodbastwicke, Woodforde’s is one of the best-known and most successful of Norfolk’s many independent brewers, and makes a point of using only local ingredients in its ales. You can visit its shop and visitor centre and join one of their excellent tours, which take you through the whole of the brewing process and give you a brief tasting at the end. Wherry is their standard bitter, and very good it is too, kept on tap at many pubs in the area, but they also do a range of other beers, including the latest Kett’s Rebellion. woodfordes.com Bure Valley Railway Just across the road from Hoveton & Wroxham mainline station, the Bure Valley Railway is a narrow-gauge train line, which runs from Wroxham up to Aylsham, taking in Coltishall, Brampton and Buxton along the way. It’s served by a mixture of steam and diesel engines, and the nine-mile trip to Aylsham takes 45 minutes. If you don’t want to take the train you can walk or cycle the Bure Valley Path, which shadows the rail line – and sometimes the river – all the way. bvrw.co.uk How Hill The Arts and Crafts-style mansion of How Hill is home to the How Hill Trust, which runs residential art and wildlife courses pertaining to Broadland and oversees the extensive grounds and gardens, which you can explore on various marked paths, including a new one around Buttle Marsh, which is being conserved to attract very shy (and very rare) bitterns. If you don’t want to walk there’s also Toad Hole Cottage, a marshman’s cottage down near the river that was occupied until the early twentieth century and beautifully and authentically restored in the 1980s in the style of the marshfolk that would have occupied it, with tools for reed-cutting, eel-catching and rabbit-foraging. The picture on the living room wall is of the last person to occupy the house, who lived here until his death in 1910. Toad Hole Cottage also has a shop and Broads Authority visitor centre that sells tickets for trips on board the nearby Electric Eel. howhilltrust.org.uk Museum of the Broads Tucked away by the staithe in Stalham, the Museum of the Broads summarises the uniqueness of Broadland very well, emphasising the nature of the landscape while, at the same time, celebrating its history as a holiday destination, with some homespun displays and several historic craft on display, including an old wherry, a commissioner’s launch and various reedlighters and other sailing vessels. museumofthebroads.org.uk Ranworth Church The Broadside village of Ranworth is well known for its church of St Helen, the so-called “Cathedral of the Broads”, mainly for the marvellous views it gives from the top of its 100ft bell tower, although the church’s mainly fifteenth-century interior is worth a look too, its most impressive feature being a rood screen painted with saints and with the rose of Ranworth on the back. Just in front is an ancient lectern, decorated with the symbol of St John the Evangelist on one side and a fifteenth-century verse on the other, although it normally supports the so-called Antiphony, a late fifteenth-century illuminated service book kept in a display case to the right of the entrance. There’s also a small café on the far side of the churchyard. achurchnearyou.com/church/2726/ St Benet’s Abbey In a way, this is a perfectly green attraction in that the best way to reach it is by boat – it’s just downriver from Horning, past the junction with the river Ant, and there are usually plenty of free moorings, Otherwise you can either drive or walk for a mile or so down a farm track from Hall Common Road to the north. St Benet’s Abbey was the largest landowner hereabouts in the Middle Ages, and it’s still a sacred site, where the bishop of Norwich has celebrated Mass every year since the 1930s, although its most significant ruin is in fact the remains of a windmill added a hundred or so years ago. norfarchtrust.org.uk For more information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Broads

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of characterful places to stay, including B&Bs, hotels, self-catering and campsites in this glorious National Park in central England. Whether you want five-star luxury, a cosy cottage, or prefer sleeping under canvas, everyone comes to the Peak District for one reason, and that’s to absorb the beautiful scenery and landscape, admire the breath-taking views and to get out and about in the great outdoors then to a log fire, some homemade cake perhaps, or sink into a comfy sofa. Campers can bed down under a starry sky, surrounded by utter peace and quiet. All the places we have selected have been awarded the Peak District Environmental Quality Mark, which highlights owners who are committed to conserving the natural environment that you have come to enjoy. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to The Peak District: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in The Peak District Hoe Grange Luxurious self-catering log cabins, a gypsy caravan, and gorgeous glamping pods with stunning views from your pillow. Explore the Peak District countryside, watch the wildlife, unwind under the stars in the Swedish log-fired hot tub or relax in the sauna. Our reviewer Florence Fortnam says "Hoe Grange is an inspiring place, where traditional Peak District farming rubs shoulders with cutting-edge green technology. David and Felicity are leading the way on the green accommodation scene and have tons of awards to their name. You couldn’t be better placed for an activity break, and everyone is catered for – including the horse. And at the end of a long day in the outdoors, it’s heaven to abandon your muddy wellies at the door retreat to the comfort of your super cosy cabin." hoegrangeholidays.co.uk Wheeldon Trees Farm Holiday Cottages Choose from a range of beautiful cottages in a quiet, relaxed location amidst the Peak District's stunning scenery - at Wheeldon Trees every comfort is provided & the friendly hosts, Martin & Deborah will ensure your stay is everything you hope for. Locally sourced produce is used as much as possible; including milk from a nearby dairy, local artisan cakes, and the Derbyshire Breakfast Basket includes homemade jam and eggs from the owners’ chickens. To encourage guests to arrive by low carbon transport alternatives, discounts are offered to guests who choose to arrive by public transport or by bike and the owners are happy to collect guests in their hybrid car from nearby train and bus stations. Guests are refunded for the costs of local bus journeys during their stay and on-site cycle hire in available, as well as secure bike storage. Our reviewer Florence Fortnam says: "Behind every great place to stay are owners who work tirelessly to make it all happen. Martin and Deborah swapped the London rat race for this patch of Derbyshire and have created much more than simply a place to rest your head at night. Quietly green and incredibly relaxed, it’s a perfect place for an activity-packed family holiday or a relaxing getaway for two." wheeldontreesfarm.co.uk Beechenhill Farm Award winning self catering accommodation and eco wedding venue on an organic dairy farm. Order local produce when you book and it will be ready and waiting for your arrival. Wood-fired hot tub and barrel sauna add extra fun to the stay. Our reviewer Rhiannon Batten says: "As with her paintings, Sue has the B&B business down to a fine art. For a relaxing weekend in a family-run, farmhouse setting, with access to glorious National Park scenery literally on the doorstep, Beechenhill is hard to beat. Not least because the welcome here is so heartfelt." beechenhill.co.uk Underleigh House B&B Tucked down a private lane amidst glorious Peak District scenery is this delightful, multi-award winning B&B, run by Vivienne and Philip. Charming bedrooms have valley views, and breakfasts of locally-sourced produce and homemade breads are delicious. Vivienne and Philip are dedicated to protecting the environment and encourage guests to reduce their own carbon footprint wherever possible. Great walks start from the door. underleighhouse.co.uk Whitehouse Barn Holiday Cottages The perfect place to come back to after a day's exploration. 1400m up, overlooked by buzzards and sky larks, Whitehouse Farm's homely cottages for two are lovingly decorated with eco paints, vintage/reclaimed/homemade furnishings and Whitehouse pottery. Guests are greeted with fantastic views, flowers from the bee friendly garden, homelaid eggs and resident collie, Scout. whitehousebarncottages.co.uk Losehill House Hotel & Spa The Peak District's best-kept secret? Losehill House is an arts and crafts gem, a beautiful 4 star hotel set down a leafy lane, surrounded by some of the best walking in the country, with stunning views overlooking Win Hill. Rooms are supremely comfortable (some are dog-friendly for guests bringing their four-legged friends). The friendly staff are justly proud of their award winning Orangery Restaurant, which uses only local, seasonal produce (their website goes into exceptional detail about the provenance of their produce). A great base for exploring the rolling hills and sweeping moorlands, or the nearby atmospheric towns of this beautiful part of the county. losehillhouse.co.uk Yorkshire Bridge Inn A popular place to stay, this award-winning inn offers 14 cosy bedrooms, a very warm welcome on arrival, fantastic food year-round, and fabulous scenery and great walks from the door. The en-suite bedrooms (some have four-posters) are prettily decorated. The inn also has five luxury apartments over the road for longer stays. Endless walking and cycling routes start from the inn, and guests will enjoy strolling aroud the resevoirs - the Ladyblower Reservoir of 'Dambusters' fame is close. yorkshire-bridge.co.uk East Lodge Country House Hotel A hotel with a low environmental impact, East Lodge excels in local sourcing, including using product from its own garden. Significant steps have been taken to reduce this hotel’s environmental impact, including LED lighting throughout and a state of the art kitchen with high quality/low energy commercial refrigeration. East Lodge excels in local sourcing, including produce from their own kitchen gardens. Investing in staff to ensure that each guest receives a warm welcome and personal service is also a strength East Lodge prides itself on. eastlodge.com Foxtwood Cottages A fantastic collection of 7 cottages nestled in the Churnet Valley, part of the beautiful Staffordshire Peak District. Wander the labyrinth of footpaths through picturesque woodlands and meadows and admire the views over Caldon Canal. Jump on a train to Stoke-on-Trent and from there take a bus to Kingsley which is about 1 mile away from Foxtwood Cottages, by prior arrangement you can be collected from the bus stop. foxtwood.co.uk Secret Cloud House Holidays Enjoy the great outdoors with luxurious yet eco-conscious attention to detail in these luxury yurts and tipis with stunning views, wood fired hot tubs, essential oil sauna and 'Shepherds Rest' treatment room. The yurts: Foxglove, Blackberry, Rosehip and Elderflower and Bilberry Lodge (a Scandinavian inspired quirky, wooden cabin) have been thoughtfully decorated with subtle hints of the hedgerow colours and embellished with little touches of luxury - Egyptian cotton bedding, gorgeously snug featherdown duvets and pillows, fluffy towels, toiletries handmade with love in Derbyshire, Staffordshire wool blankets to keep you snug and a hamper of delicious local food on arrival to create the perfect Staffordshire breakfast. If you are searching for a peaceful, relaxing break in beautiful countryside with an endless array of exhilarating activities on your doorstep - then look no further. Our reviewer Lucy Symons says "What could be nicer than sitting in a wood burning hot tub with a glass of wine under the stars after a hearty day walking or cycling through the Peak District?". secretcloudhouseholidays.co.uk Church Farm Holiday Cottages Cosy, well-equipped, eco-friendly cottages at the head of a beautiful, quiet dale. Walk from the door on to numerous trails and footpaths. Our reviewer Liz Granirer says: "At Church Farm Holiday Cottages, the upside-down arrangements – bedrooms downstairs, living areas upstairs ­­– mean you get to enjoy the farmyard views by day. The open-plan kitchens have everything you need to cook full-blown family meals, there’s plenty of comfortable seating, wi-fi, a DVD player and TV, and highchair and cot available. Dogs welcome (but do let them know first!). Being green has obviously always been a way of life for Christine and Chris." churchfarmholidaycottages.co.uk Sladen Lodge Contemporary Lodge for up to 16 guests, ideal either as holiday accommodation or a unique corporate retreat. Situated at the edge of the village of Hathersage it is easily accessible by public transport (train or bus) with shops, pubs and restaurants just a short walk away. Homemade locally sourced catering available for corporate guests on request. With both a large sunny south-facing patio commanding panoramic views of the Hope Valley and a range of great walks straight from the door, it is an ideal place to either sit and enjoy, or get out and explore the glorious Peak District. sladenlodge.co.uk My Country Houses My Country Houses Ltd offer two historic holiday homes, Elton Old Hall c1668 and Portland House c1870, owned and run with great attention to detail by Martin and Juliet Harrop. Elton Old Hall c1668 is a 5 star self-catering property for up to 14 guests in a 17th century Grade II listed manor house in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Working closely with local craftsman, Martin and Juliet spent two years restoring the original layout and historic features with the addition of modern comforts and amenities. Guests can enjoy exclusive use of a beautifully and sympathetically restored Hall with stunning walks straight from the doorstep. Portland House c1870 is a 5 star rated property sleeping up to 24 guests situated with the "most complete location" on the edge of historic Matlock Bath. Lovingly restored to its former Gentleman's residence grandeur and purposely renovated to be as energy efficient as possible without compromising on quality. mycountryhouses.co.uk Tom's & Douglas' Barns Two 5 star holiday cottages for two in a conservation area within the Peak District National Park. Both beautifully converted barns effectively incorporate the best of the old with the best of the new. tomsbarn.co.uk Blakelow Farm Cottages A collection of 5 star self-catering holiday cottages set on the 200-year old Blakelow farm with spectacular views out to Chatsworth House. Sleeping between 1 and 4 people, the cottages are luxurious but comely, genteel yet chic, offering log burning stoves, large stone fireplaces, private terraces and wonderfully appointed bedrooms. Both cyclist and walker friendly, there's a great range of walks available right from the doorstep, plus the likes of Carsington Water reservoir and the historic market town of Bakewell only a short distance away. Guests are encouraged to make suggestions on what else the business could do environmentally and to log sightings of wildlife in the grounds. With some produce coming from the farm itself, this truly is a place where food miles are at a minimum! blakelowcottages.co.uk The Nightingale Centre A venue with a difference! Whether you want to hold a conference or outdoor pursuits weekend for friends, get married or have family reunion, this holiday and conference centre provides a relaxed and informal setting for all types of large get togethers. The 30 bedrooms are simply decorated, and there's a library, children's play area, sports field, table tennis and spacious gardens. The owners are passionate about offering home cooked food, with locally-sourced ingredients including produce from their own vegetable patch. It's location on the boundary of the Dark and White Peaks means it’s a great base for walkers to explore the beautiful and varied Peak District landscape, as well as being close to many attractions. thenightingalecentre.org.uk Dove Valley Centre Sustainably converted 18th century barns providing stylish, self-contained cottages sleeping 5 & 7, together sleeping 12. Studio & camping for larger groups - great for parties and workshops. In a secluded setting on an environmentally managed farm. dovevalleycentre.co.uk Fernyford Barn Fully equipped self-catering barns surrounded by a family-run working Upland stock farm with Swaledale sheep and Belted Galloway cattle, with land managed in an environmentally sensitive way. The house itself combines traditional features wit modern furnishings to create a wonderfully cosy country atmosphere. Feel free to relax in the garden and patio area, and tuck in to some of the farm's own sausage, bacon, eggs and honey. fernyford.co.uk Old Post Office Barn A wonderfully restored Roaches red gritstone barn offering cosy self-catering accommodation for 3 people and a dog in Upper Hulme, a beautiful area of the National Park. While this may be an ideal place to come and relax, there's plenty of opportunity for bird and wildlife watchers. Owners Sheila and Barry are also keen climbers and walkers, with plenty of information for anyone looking to explore the surrounding moorland area of the Peak District National Park. Just down the road is Ye Olde Rock Inn, which offers a fantastic range of real ales. post-office-barn.co.uk April Cottage A 200 year old self catering cottage in the centre of Youlgrave, with three pubs and two shops on the doorstep offering local produce. Accommodation is provided for three people in twin and single rooms with central heating and an open fire. Walks into Lathkill and Bradford Dale start nearby. Next door, Woodturning at Christmas Cottage is the ideal place to get gifts and souvenirs with the environment in mind. whitepeakcottage.co.uk YHA Castleton Losehill Hall This magnificent Victorian gothic mansion with cobbled mews has recently been compeltely refurbished. Surrounded by 27 acres of parkland in the heart of the Peak District National Park, there are beautiful gardens, woodland and streams to explore within the grounds, with one of the peak’s most charming villages just moments away. You're well placed for family adventures. Walkers and those with children will love the spectacular Winnats Pass, Peveril Castle and Mam Tor close by, and there's superb climbing, running and cycling. Scramble up Cave Dale for a great view of Peveril Castle and the village of Castleton. There are also caverns, castles, shops and beautiful scenery to explore in Castleton. History buffs will love fossil hunting, too. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-castleton-losehill-hall YHA Hathersage Plumb in the middle of pretty Hathersage with walking, cycling and climbing opportunities aplenty, this YHA is a great base for an activity holiday. There's a games room and books to borrow for rainy days, too. Chatsworth House is close by. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-hathersage YHA Ilam Hall A characterful 17th-century Gothic mansion surrounded by 84 acres of National Trust-owned parkland. Endless walking and cycling, and fantastic limestone gorge scenery on your doorstep. Pretty Ilam is worth exploring, too. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-ilam-hall YHA National Forest Located at the Conkers visitor centre, this is a great base for budget, family-friendly breaks. There are walking and cycling routes galore, and a lovely café on site. Archery, birds of prey handling and llama trekking nearby. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-national-forest YHA Edale Not only is this YHA one of the highest residences in the Peak District (fab views on all sides), but they run a great range of family-friendly activity breaks: have a go at archery, caving, canoeing and abseiling. Cycling and walking trails abound. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-edale-activity-centre YHA Ravenstor With 60 acres of National Trust parkland, you've got stunning views across the Derbyshire Dales from every window. Bring the brood for an action-packed activity holiday: endless walking and cycling routes, and historic homes and gardens nearby. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-ravenstor YHA Eyam This tiny turreted castle perched on a hillside above the historic village of Eyam was built in 1887 and opened as a hostel in 1972. Superb location with great views, restaurant onsite and family-friendly activities on your doorstep. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-eyam Dewsnaps Farm Holiday Cottages Two converted barn holiday cottages. Both cottages and the main farm house use solar PV and solar thermal to heat and light the buildings. The buildings also use LED lighting and contain some internal insulation to the solid walls. Sally considers sustainability issues in every decision she makes about her business. Sally also keeps a small flock of pedigree Icelandic sheep, which are bred for their exceptional fleece, meat and milk. She produces a range of woollen and felted products using the natural fleece colours and hand-coloured yarns using natural plant dyes – many of which are grown at Dewsnaps in the Dye Garden. dewsnaps.co.uk Hargate Hall Originally built for one family, it now is divided up into 12 self-catering holiday apartments providing accommodation for 2 to 77 people. A well as holidays, we regularly host weddings, parties and other celebrations, where people book the whole place for the weekend. We strive to support other local businesses by buying from them or recommending them to our guests. We also aim to reduce our environmental impact by using eco-friendly products where possible and manage the hall and grounds in a sensitive manner. Hot water and an increasing amount of heating is now provided from a biomass boiler which has eliminated our oil usage and significantly reduced our electricity consumption. hargate-hall.co.uk Weathericks and Bradstone Two luxury self-catering cottages with expansive views across farmland to Carsington Water. Guests have access to the surrounding fields to join the numerous public footpaths and trails nearby. Both cottages have the Walkers and Cyclists Welcome awards so you can book with confidence, knowing that your walking and cycling needs will be met. For birdwatchers the cottages are ideal with regular visitors including woodpeckers, tits, finches and jays. weathericks.co.uk Long Valley Yurts A truly magical 'glamping' experience in The Peak District offering back-to-nature living without compromising on comfort. There are comfy beds, warm duvets, cosy wood burning stoves and solar lighting. luxury-yurt-holidays.co.uk Upper Hurst Farm A caravan and camping site in an elevated position with panoramic views, situated near the picture-postcard village of Hartington. Offers super-pitches for caravans and motorhomes, camping and clamping pitches and excellent facilities. upperhurstfarm.com For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our: Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of restaurants, cafés and markets to find the best local food and drink in this glorious National Park in central England. As you might expect from a National Park with a strong agricultural and farming heritage, local food is big business in the Peak District. The region is packed with a rich variety of local specialities: from lamb which has grazed on limestone dales, to organically-reared beef, to the hundreds of dairy products – cheeses, butter, ice cream – produced on farms which manage their field edges, woodlands and streams to benefit wildlife, and to the dozens of locally-brewed ales. All this seasonal goodness can be sampled in the many restaurants, pubs and markets dotted throughout the region, so whether you want to splash out on a fine dining experience or buy directly from local producers at one of the monthly farmers markets, getting involved in the regional food scene should be a highlight of any trip to the Peak District. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to The Peak District: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in The Peak District The Yorkshire Bridge Inn Restaurant An award-winning inn supporting local suppliers and traditional community events, the Yorkshire Bridge Inn is also just a hop from Ladybower Reservoir. Walks start from the door making it an ideal base from which to explore this part of the Peak District. The quality and integrity of the food is paramount: delicious food is prepared to order using the freshest local, seasonal produce. An extensive menu, daily specials, and a great choice of beers and wines means you'll never be disappointed, no matter how many times you go back! How to get here by public transport: Bamford Railway Station is only 1.4 miles away. It is a quick walk straight along Ashopton Road, or the local 275 bus will take you along the road if you don't fancy walking. Also very nearby is Route 6 on the National Cycle Network. yorkshire-bridge.co.uk The Orangery Restaurant at Losehill House Hotel & Spa Staff here are deservedly proud of this unpretentious, award-winning restaurant, which strives to provide the highest quality food without ever compromising on quality or ethics. Consequently the ingredients are very important (the website goes into exceptional detail about the provenance of the food - from the free range chicken to the pumpkin seed oil to the flour!). Food here is creative, with a constantly evolving menu which changes with the seasons. Set in beautiful rolling countryside, you really get the best of both worlds - superb food in a fantastic setting. How to get here by public transport: Hope Railway Station is only 1.4 miles away. It is possible to take the 272 bus to the other end of Hope village. However, this will only take you a short way and you will still have to walk the rest. It is therefore advisable to make the half hour walk from the station, or to take a taxi, which the restaurant will be happy to arrange for you. The Number 6 cycle route on the National Cycle Network goes past Hope. losehillhouse.co.uk The Anglers Rest A community owned pub, cafe and Post Office, serving delicious freshly cooked food, using local produce, plus a wide selection of local real ales. The Anglers Rest offers something for everyone including a large car park, cycle racks and accessible outdoor seating. Families, walkers and dogs welcome. anglers.rest The Red Lion Inn The Red Lion Inn is a traditional Peak District pub serving good quality food cooked fresh to order. As well as old favourites such as our Sunday carvery, we serve dishes with a Sardinian twist and at certain points in the year, host Sardinian banqueting evenings! Our chef/owner/brewer makes our very own Birchover Blue cheese using local milk and brews a range of four real ales and one Italian style lager onsite. True Derbyshire hospitality. red-lion-birchover.co.uk Catering places: Strand Fine Catering With over 30 years experience in the industry, Judith is the passion and creative drive behind Strand Fine Catering, a small but well-established company providing fabulous locally-sourced food. Whether you're planning a family gathering or corporate event, or you simply want to avoid the kitchen whilst on holiday, Judith and her team will cater for all types of event or occasion. strandcatering.co.uk Gourmet Express With Emma's 20 years' experience in the catering industry, this local catering company uses the best local produce to provide you with whichever type of catering you require, from dinner parties or larger functions to ready meals for the freezer and a range of one pot meals for campers. They aim to use as much local produce as possible, including beef and lamb from local butchers Paul Bowyer in Hathersage and Watsons in Hope. gourmetexpress.org.uk Peak District Fine Foods This family catering business goes to great pains to ensure their produce comes from within the Derbyshire Dales and the Peak District. With the aim to bring back real enjoyment of food through flavours that the mass food industry has all but destroyed, Ruth and Peter pride themselves in offering food and service that will make that special occasion one to remember. They have searched, researched, tasted and selected the best products so you can enjoy the best produce that the local area has to offer. Their environmental stance goes beyond the kitchen too - they are committed to ensuring that their business has an little impact of the environment as possible by conserving energy, reducing waste, and promoting best environmental practice wherever they go. peakdistrictfinefoods.co.uk Eat Local E W Coates Butchers A fifth generation high class retail and catering butchers that has been trading from the Two Dales since 1949. The owners pride themselves in using only animals reared on local farms - many of which have themselves have been accredited by the EQM. All farming procedures are also as responsible and sustainable as possible. The sumptuous sausages and home dry-cured bacon have won many awards both locally and nationally, while the owners also make their own steak and pork pies - a fantastic option if you're in a self-catering accommodation. How to get here by public transport: Matlock Railway Station is just 2 miles away. From there, take the TransPeak bus service to Darley Dale. A short walk will take you to the butchers. No website, call 01629 733504. Hope Valley Cows have been milked at this family farm for some 300 years, which goes a long way to explaining why the ice cream they produce tastes so good. You'll be able to visit the parlour and sample a whole variety of traditional and unique flavours, from the likes of Camilla's Vanilla right the way up to Gertrude's Whiskey and Ginger. Cows are far from the only wildlife on the farm, with different types of mammals and birds living in the hedgerows and stream that leads into the River Derwent. Come and visit the farm you'll also be able to get to know the farm's piglets while wandering one of the farm's walking trails. How to get here by public transport: The farm is just a 15 minute walk from Bamford Railway Station along Castleton Road. hope-valley.co.uk Blaze Farm Blaze farm is famous for its award-winning 'Hilly Billy' ice cream, all of which is made on the farm using milk sourced from their own dairy herd. Again, the flavours range from the expected (vanilla, raspberry, chocolate chip) and the delightfully imaginative (turkish delight with white chocolate chip). Head over to the Tea Room and you can order in homemade soups, sandwiches, cakes and desserts. Blaze Farm is far from being just a place to eat - there are numerous nature trails that'll take you on different routes through the farm, plus you can watch lambing in Spring and sheep-shearing during the Summer. How to get here by public transport: The closest railway station is Macclesfield, at 4 miles away. From there it is easiest to arrange a taxi. A list of local firms is available at TrainTaxi. blazefarm.com Grindleford Community Shop Grindleford Community Shop is a wonderful example of what happens when passionate local people work together to create something really special for their own community. The shop supports a wealth of local food producers, artisans and projects. The shelves display an eclectic mix of favourite household brands alongside organic, fair trade, eco and wholefood alternatives. grindlefordshop.co.uk Bloomers of Bakewell Ltd Traditional bakery in the heart of Bakewell, one of two (in the world!) to know the secret recipe for the famous Bakewell Pudding. The shop is quaint and quirky and stocks a good range of local treats alongside its own baked goods, including traditional Peak District fayre such as Hartington Stilton and Derbyshire Oat Cakes. bloomersofbakewell.co.uk Hartington Cheese & Wine Co Ltd Hartington Cheese and Wine has its HQ in a charming traditional building in the centre of Hartington and has two smaller shops at Eyam Hall and also at Arkwright’s Mill in Cromford. The shops stocks a wide range of locally made cheeses, as well as local and British wines, alongside condiments and cheese accompaniments. hartingtoncheeseshop.co.uk Matlock Meadows Ice Cream Parlour A visit to Matlock Meadows ice cream parlour is a wonderful chance to taste an artisan product from a working dairy farm, managed with the environment and conservation of the Peak District in mind. The parlour offers an wide range of ice-creams handmade onsite, using milk from their own dairy herd. It is also heated using a biomass boiler and designed for energy efficiency. matlockmeadows.co.uk Village Green Cafe, Peak District This welcoming cafe in the heart of the historic village of Eyam is proud to offer fair-trade coffee, homemade cakes, as well as home-cooked breakfasts and light lunches. They are passionate about using ingredients from local producers. Community is at the heart of what they do, and they offer a warm welcome to cyclists, walkers and climbers who include Eyam on their route, (as well as their four-legged friends). cafevillagegreen.com Hassop Station Ltd This charming café and bookshop, located in an historic railway station, is a wonderful base from which to explore the Monsal Trail on foot or by bike. The café is a celebration of delicious local and seasonal food. Cycle hire is available, including an electric bike showroom. hassopstation.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our: Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of castles, award-winning galleries, wonderful outdoor activity centres and other family days out in this glorious National Park in central England. Covering some 550 square miles, the Peak District National Park has plenty of space for all manner of attractions. Visit one of the outdoor activity centres and take part in any number of environmentally-minded courses and sessions, or spend a day exploring one of the many cultural and historical spaces, ranging from Peveril Castle to Buxton Museum and Art Gallery. You'll also be able to make the most of the Peak District's sustainable shops, selling everything from eco jewellery and clothing to bespoke works of art and specially-designed furniture made from local wood. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to The Peak District: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in The Peak District Chatsworth House Home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire since the 15th Century, Chatsworth House one of Britain's best loved historic houses, filled with stunning architecture, famous art works and traditional detailing (including a beautifully restored oak staircase). Fronted by the River Derwent, the 1000 acre park boasts 105 acres of picturesque gardens, fountains, restaurants, award-winning farm shops and cafes, as well as an adventure playground and working farm. With something for everyone, a holiday in the Peak District really wouldn't be complete without a visit to Chatsworth House. How to get here by public transport: Take a train to Sheffield Railway Station. From there, take the 218 bus which will drop you directly to Chatsworth. Route 680 on the National Cycle Network passes fairly close to Chatsworth. chatsworth.org Haddon Hall Undoubtedly one of the Peak District's top visitor attractions, and quite rightly so. This fortified medieval manor dates right back to the 12th Century and is the home of Lord and Lady Edward Manners, whose family have lived here since 1567. Having welcomed visitors for hundreds of years, the Hall is set within a stunning organic parkland and often practices methods from Tudor times, reducing its impact on the environment. Guests will enjoy the range of locally produced food on offer at the restaurant, which is located in the 17th Century stable block. How to get here by public transport: Matlock Railway station is 5 miles away. From there, take the TransPeak bus service to Bakewell. A short walk will bring you to Haddon Hall. haddonhall.co.uk Bakewell Museum The museum tells the story of the local history of the Bakewell area, all of which is housed in a building that dates back as far as Henry VIII's reign and whose ten beamed rooms boast impressive Tudor fireplaces. The fascinating collection includes costume exhibitions, children's toys a Victorian kitchen, early photography, textiles, and samplers. There's now also the chance to explore the New Industrial Gallery and courtyard. How to get here by public transport: The nearest railway station is Grindleford. From there, take the 240 bus to Bakewell. Route 680 on the National Cycle Network passes through Bakewell. oldhousemuseum.org.uk Caudwell's Mill This unique, Grade II listed historic roller flour mill is one of a group of mills that has stood on this site for the last 400 years, powered by water from the River Wye. There's also a small mill shop where you can buy a selection of oats and flour, as well as local recipe books. How to get here by public transport: The nearest railway station is Matlock. From there, take the TransPeak bus service to Rowsley. caudwellsmill.co.uk Mining Museum Discover the fascinating world of the Derbyshire miner, men who toiled in cramped and dangerous conditions in order to extract lead ore from beneath the ground. You'll get to see the tools they used, as well as the advances in technology that have changed the way the mineral is extracted. You can even climb and crawl your way through a maze of tunnels and shafts before discovering the area's history that dates back over 2000 years to Roman times. How to get here by public transport: The nearest station is Matlock Bath. The museum is only a ten minute walk from the station. The TransPeak bus service also stops directly outside the museum. peakmines.co.uk Buxton Museum and Art Gallery Come and discover the geology, archeology and history of the Peak District with a trip to the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery. Some of the top exhibitions include a collection of Ice Age animal bones and teeth from Peak District caves and quarries, a local fine art collection, a collection of Carboniferous limestone fossils and the archives and libraries of geologist Professor Sir William Boyd Dawkins. All collections are displayed in the award-winning 'Wonders of the Peak' time tunnel. derbyshire.gov.uk/buxton Peveril Castle Standing high above the picturesque village of Castleton right at the heart of the Peak District, Peveril Castle was first built by Henry II in 1176 and is one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses. Itm ight be a bit of trek to the top of the hill, but it'll be well worth it once you're enjoying stunning views out over the Hope Valley. Take a wander through the ruins of the keep, or head over to the visitor centre where you'll learn all about Peveril and its history as a royal hunting preserve since the 11th century. How to get here by public transport: The nearest railway station is Hope, which is just 1 mile away. You can walk, or take a bus such as the 272 which will drop you off around the corner from the castle entrance. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/peveril-castle Discover Buxton Tours Experience a wonderfully witty and informative tour of Buxton aboard a miniature vintage-style electric tram called Wonder of the Peak, converted by local tradesmen from an old milk float! This green attraction allows less able people to see and experience Buxton, past and present. A local electronics company has undertaken a study of the tram, measuring its energy use and comparing it favourably to a similar diesel vehicle. discoverbuxton.co.uk Blaze Farm This award-winning farm in Wildboarclough offers a fantastic nature trail that eventually splits into two, providing an easier route for families and a tougher stretch for more seasoned walkers. The advanced trail involves a slight incline and a trek along a wood where you'll be able to look out over the surrounding countryside. Both trails are also great for budding wildlife watchers, while younger visitors will have the change to encounter lamb, sheep and cows, as well as to visit the Hilly Billy ice cream parlour, which uses milk from the farm's own dairy herd. blazefarm.com Dove Valley Centre Surrounded by flora and wildlife, this farm in the spectacular upper Dove Valley has sustainably converted barns sleeping up to 12. The two cottages have been beautifully renovated with exposed roof timbers, wood burning stoves and Dove Valley views in all directions. The eco-converted Haybarn Studio is the base for arts and crafts and environmental courses and events allowing guests to take part in a range of rural crafts courses, from jewellery making to a fantastic 'Biodiversity Day', run by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. How to get here by public transport: The closest railway station is Buxton. From the station, take the 442 bus to Ashbourne bus station and take the Swift bus service to Lower Ellastone. The farm is just along Dove Street and then left onto Mill. Lane. dovevalleycentre.co.uk Peak Organics Run by a dedicated team of green-fingered (and green-minded) horticulturists, Peak Organics offers knowledge, skills and experience of organic gardening through a range of workshops and drop-in sessions. These sessions range from a 'Practical Garden Course', which teaches the basic principles of organic horticulture and sustainable gardening, to 'Compost, Worms and your Soil', where you can learn all about worm composting. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to get to know more about sustainable gardening techniques. peakorganics.org.uk Walls for the Future Ltd Run by four DSWA/LANTRA accredited trainers, Walls for the Future offers a range of training and courses aimed at teaching the art of dry stone walling. Each of the tutors is passionate about their craft and will endeavour to teach students not jsut about walling itself, but how it can benefit the Peak District in the long term. A high level of training is provided, aimed particularly at beginners, schools, corporate training and working wallers. wallsforthefuture.co.uk Dewsnaps Woollens The Peak District countryside offers fantastic inspiration for Sally's range of knitted and felted interiors products. The soft, luxurious wool from her pedigree flock of Icelandic sheep comes in a range of natural colours, which she uses as a backdrop to the heathery or autumnul tints of the moors. dewsnapswoollens.co.uk Brough Lea Farm Peak Yarns and Fibres Brough Lea Farm Peak Yarns and Fibres have a holistic approach to their business which brings together sheep farming and traditional rural wool crafts. Their yarns add value to the wool from their own sheep, which in turn supports a farming model based on good environmental and conservation practice. They also contribute to a vibrant community of local crafts people by trading wool and sharing skills with other local farmers, spinners and weavers. broughleafarm.com For information on nearby characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District, here is our guide to how to travel to and around the Peak District National Park without a car. The Peak District is one of the most visited National Parks in the world. Slap bang in the centre of England, close to the cities of the Midlands, it is well connected by rail and coach both north and south of the country. Huge efforts are also underway to establish it as one of the UK’s top cycle destinations. A. Travelling to the Peak District without a car By Train: Well positioned between Manchester and Sheffield, the Peak District has great rail connections from both cities, as well as Derby and Stoke-on-Trent. To any of these cities, it’s easy to make connections on fast mainline trains from across the rest of the country. The Derwent Valley line runs from Derby up through Duffield, Belper, Ambergate, Whatstandwell, Cromford and Matlock Bath to the former spa town of Matlock. The Hope Valley line runs through the High Peak area, connecting Sheffield and Manchester via various stations in the park, including Hope itself, as well as Edale (for the Pennine Way). The Glossop line connects Manchester to Hadfield and Glosso p, the pretty ‘gateway to the Peak District’. The Buxton line links the famous honeypot town of Buxton (and key hub for Peak District accommodation) to Manchester via some of the steepest railways – and prettiest scenery - in the country. By Coach or Bus: National Express runs a direct service (route 440) from London and Leicester to Derby. At Derby it’s possible to get buses onto Matlock, Bakewell and Buxton with TransPeak buses. Both National Express and Megabus run various services from around the country to Manchester, Sheffield, Derby, and other towns in the surrounding area; from here you can make onward connections into the National Park. Many local services connect the surrounding towns with destinations within the Peak District - see below for more information. The principal long distance service across the National Park is the TransPeak from Manchester to Derby, via the area’s main towns, Buxton, Bakewell, and Matlock. B. Travelling around the Peak District without a car By Train: The four train lines that connect the Peak District with Manchester, Sheffield and Derby also stop at various points within the national park, the Hope Valley line in particular has several rural stops, which make ideal starting points for a hike, stroll, or cycle. If you want sample a slice of local heritage, there are two special railway services: Peak Rail runs authentic steam trains between Matlock and Rowsley, and has disabled access; whilst ‘Folk Trains’ run from Sheffield to Edable, and from Manchester to Hathersage or Glossop. Local folk musicians play on the train, and when it reaches its destination, passengers are all invited to alight and hear further music in a local ‘hostelry’. By Bus: The Peak District has a comprehensive bus network across the National Park that links with railway services at major centres such as Matlock and Buxton. Your bus ticket can often entitle you to reductions across a range of attractions in the National Park. Full bus timetable information can be found here: Derbyshire County Council bus timetables. High Peak Buses serve wide swathes of the park with regular services throughout the week. Have a look at High Peak bus routes and timetables; here are some of the key services for visitors: 6.1: Bakewell – Matlock – Wirksworth – Belper – Derby (for Haddon Hall, Peak Rail, and Cromford Mill) 66: Chesterfield – Baslow – Nether End – Eyam – Tideswell – Buxton 140, 141: Matlock – Matlock Bath – Cromford – Crich – Alfreton (for the National Tramway Museum) 17, 110, 111, 112: Sheffield – Chesterfield – Matlock – Matlock Bath – Carsington Water – Ashbourne 173: Bakewell – Great Longstone – Monsal Head – Tideswell – Castleton – Chesterfield – Bakewell (circular route, take for Peveril Castle) 63, 64: Chesterfield – Ashover – Matlock 70, 77: Renishaw Hall Gardens – Cresswell Crag 58: Macclesfield – Buxton – Bakewell – Chatsworth 170: Chesterfield – Bakewell 215, 218: Sheffield – Chatsworth House – Matlock For more information and links to timetables, check out the Peak District Bus Routes. Here, you can also find PDF leaflets detailing walks and trails accessible by bus, with exact directions for how to reach them. C. Cycling: The Peak District has ambitious plans to become one of the UK’s leading cycle destinations, and it is already well on its way. With over 65 miles of off-road cycling trails and a network of quiet country roads, huge amounts of the National Park’s glorious scenery are easily accessible by bike. Of course, the Peak District didn’t gain its name for nothing, so have a careful look at any intended routes and think about what you can manage and realistically carry with you before setting off up those hills! National rail services to the Peak District can carry (a limited number of) bicycles, but it is highly advised to call up the rail operator to reserve a place for your bike on the train: this is mandatory on many mainline services. Unfortunately, most bus services in the Peak District are not equipped to carry bikes - fold-up bikes can be stored in the luggage area when there is room (though this remains at the discretion of the driver); however only Staffordshire's Moorlands Connect services have space for bike storage. These services connect the Peak District hubs of Buxton and Ashbourne with the Staffordshire town of Leek and some of the south-eastern parts of the National Park, so it is worth considering arriving by train to Buxton if you wish to make onward bus travel with your bike. The bus is an on-demand service and needs to be booked in advance by phone or email. The Peak District National Park has four cycle hire centres, offering a range of different bikes, in Ashbourne Town Centre, Manifold, at Parsley Hay, and in Derwent. There are various private cycle hire centres, including Monsal Trail Cycle Hire, which connects to the long distance Monsal Trail, a cycle route taking you through some of the National Park’s most breathtaking landscapes. As part of its plan to become a premier cycling destination, the Peak District has helpfully gathered together a wide selection of the best cycling routes, for cyclists of all abilities, and has helpful information about accessibility. On the cycle routes page you can browse the different routes by difficulty and download PDF leaflets packed with information and clear but detailed route maps. Further information, maps, advice, and facilities can be found on-site at the Peak District’s four cycle hire centres (above). Find out more about cycling in the Peak District on the National Park's cycling mini-site, from Sustrans (in the Peaks and the rest of the country). Maps and further information For maps and more information about travelling in the Peak District without a car, or for general advice about your visit, head to one of the National Park’s four visitor centres. Bakewell Visitor Centre Castleton Visitor Centre The Moorland Centre in Edale Upper Derwent Visitor Centre The Peak District National Park website also has some handy maps of the Peak District, a range of information on car-free access to the area, and more. For great places to eat and stay, as well as ideas for days out in the Peak District, see our: Green Traveller's Guide to the Peak District

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland, Jackie King picks out a selection of characterful hotels, B&Bs, self-catering cottages and campsites in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest England. Whether you’re here for a whole action packed week or just a relaxing mini-break, the Forest of Bowland AONB has a huge variety of eco-friendly accommodations to choose from, suiting all tastes and budgets. We've put together this list of the best places to stay in the region, so you can find something to suit you, whether it’s a luxurious country hotel, a rustic self-catering cottage or a secluded touring site where you’ll be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the flowing river. All of these accommodations have also received accreditation by the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) for the important steps they’re taking to conserve their natural environment. So whether you choose to start the day with a home cooked, locally sourced Bowland breakfast, or leave the car behind to explore the wild moors on foot, you can be sure that you’re helping to preserve this wonderful region for the future. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Forest of Bowland: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in the Forest of Bowland The Traddock, Yorkshire Dales, England A country house hotel surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Offering warm welcoming hospitality in a relaxed, homely country house with superb facilites and luxury double rooms. thetraddock.co.uk The Old Post House Hotel, Lancashire, England Conveniently located in the centre of the historic market town of Clitheroe, right in the heart of the Ribble Valley, this hotel was in fact a working Post Office until 1928. It has 11 modern rooms with en-suite facilities. Great base for cyclists. the-old-post-house-hotel.lancashireonly.co.uk The Priory, Lancashire, England Set in the pretty village of Scorton, this boutique hotel offers stylish accommodation alongside traditional hospitality. The eight en-suite bedrooms have a clean and crisp design but still retain a traditional country feel. Popular restaurant, too. theprioryscorton.co.uk Mytton Fold Hotel and Golf Course, Lancashire, England Surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens, the award winning Mytton Fold Hotel and Golf Complex is an oasis of calm. Each of the 43 bedrooms is individually designed with en-suite facilities and internet access as standard. myttonfold.co.uk Dale House Barn B&B, Forest of Bowland AONB, Lancashire Dale House Barn and B&B is a small family business in a fantastically remote location within the stunning Forest of Bowland, Lancashire – an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). Stay in the camping barn or one of the 2 en-suite b&b rooms. dalehousebarn.co.uk Cobden Farm, Lancashire, England This 4* B&B offers the warmest of welcomes with freshly baked scones with butter and jam waiting for you on arrival. It has two comfortable and spacious bedrooms available with gorgeous views over the Sabden Valley. cobdenfarm.co.uk Broadgate Farm, Lancashire, England This 4* B&B and caravan site is set in 300 acres of glorious farmland, managed by the Clark family who have been farming here for four generations since 1923. There are two spacious bedrooms available for B&B. broadgatefarm.co.uk Middle Flass Lodge, Lancashire, England Beautifully converted in 1996 by owners Joan and Nigel, this former barn and cow byre is now a hotel and restaurant nestled in the tranquil Ribble Valley. As Nigel is a former Head Chef, you can look forward to an extensive breakfast. middleflasslodge.co.uk The Craigwell Hotel, Lancashire, England A ten bedroom eco-friendly guesthouse in a wonderful spot overlooking Morecambe Bay with lovely views of the Lake District mountains. Enjoy spectacular sunsets, bird-watching and tasting delicious locally sourced fairtrade food. craigwellhotel.co.uk Dale House Barn B&B, Forest of Bowland AONB, Lancashire Dale House Barn and B&B is a small family business in a fantastically remote location within the stunning Forest of Bowland, Lancashire – an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). Stay in the camping barn or one of the 2 en-suite b&b rooms. dalehousebarn.co.uk Malkin Tower Farm Holiday Cottages, Lancashire, England These two luxury self catering holiday cottages and ‘Piggery’ have been converted from the former Malkin Tower Farm, set in stunning countryside within the Forest of Bowland AONB. Great base for non-car based activities like walking and cycling. malkintowerfarm.co.uk Cleveley Mere Boutique Lodges, Lancashire, England These five state-of-the-art retreats are all set on the edge of a vast lake within a glorious 34 acre nature reserve. You could choose to stay in the UK’s first ‘Huf House’ holiday let, as featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs! cleveleymere.com Higher Gills Farm, Lancashire, England These two self-catering holiday apartments, Lower Laithe and Granary, have both been tastefully converted from a 200-year-old stable block on Higher Gills Farm, a working cattle and sheep farm run by the Pilkington family. highergills.co.uk Height Top Farm, Lancashire, England Set in a peacefully rural location, these one bedroom self-catering cottages have been lovingly renovated from the existing farmhouse. Look out for a wealth of original features, from the fully working Yorkist range to the log burning stove. heighttopfarm.co.uk Quernmore Valley Cottages, Lancashire, England Tucked away on the old Roman road from Lancaster to the Trough of Bowland is Quernmore Valley. You can choose from a traditional, three bedroom cottage with its own spacious garden area and babbling brook, or a modern, newly built cottage. quernmorevalleycottages.com Lower Gill Holidays, Lancashire, England This collection of holiday cottages nestles in a pretty, wooded glade at the end of a private road, surrounded by open farmland. The cottages sleep between four and 12, and the farmhouse sleeps up to 12; all furnished to a high standard. lowergill.co.uk For more information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland, Jackie King picks out a selection of gardens, visitor attractions and rural venues in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest England. Gorgeous scenery, pretty villages, quaint tea rooms and lush green gardens. The Forest of Bowland AONB has something for every member of the family. Spend a little time here and you'll soon discover that there's a huge range of cultural and natural attractions for adults and children alike. If you're looking for natural beauty, look no further than the likes of Waddow Lodge Garden, a collection of hundreds of unique plants, or the Bowland Visitor Centre, the perfect starting point for any walk or bike ride. Then again you could always visit the likes of Slaidburn Village Hall and the Tithe Barn, where you can combine natural beauty with galleries, exhibits of local artists and other cultural events. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Forest of Bowland: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in the Forest of Bowland Waddow Lodge Garden Come and enjoy the hundreds of plants collected here over 40 years by Head Gardener Peter Foley. The whole garden is managed by Peter and his fiancee Liz, and run along organic principles, using environmentally friendly gardening techniques and composting all available waste material. There's an extraordinary variety of plants here, including herbaceous perennials, grasses, roses and shrubs, heathers and rhododendrons, dwarf conifers and alpines plus fruit and vegetables in a new kitchen garden area. In addition there’s a small orchard of classic old apple varieties, many native to Yorkshire and Lancashire, plus a small wildflower area and a wet meadow further down the garden perfect for encouraging wildlife into the garden. gardentalks.co.uk Bowland Visitor Centre If you’re planning to explore Lancashire’s countryside, then it’s worth starting out at the warm and welcoming Bowland Vistor Centre in Beacon Fell Country Park. Here you’ll find a wealth of information about the Fell, Forest of Bowland and surrounding area, and an enthusiastic team of volunteers who will happily advise you on where to go and what to see. There’s also a café serving freshly prepared food and drink to set you up for a day of exploration on Beacon Fell itself. There's a network of paths, including a sculpture trail, for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, but you don’t have to stick to them. You might prefer to just roam around, perhaps fly a kite or build a den, and relish the freedom of being in the great outdoors. forestofbowland.com Bowland Wild Boar Park Great for children and animal lovers, the Bowland Wild Boar Park has all sorts of wildlife to get up close and personal with. You can see and feed the llamas, deer, goats, lambs and chicks, and view the wild boar and Longhorn Cattle around the scenic Ribble Country Park. There are tractor and trailer rides, an educational eco lodge, and a relaxing picnic area by the pond where you can enjoy your lunch whilst you watch the wildlife at the feeding station tucking into theirs. wildboarpark.co.uk Browsholme Hall Whether you’re heading out into the Ribble Valley or exploring Browsholme Hall’s own private nature trail, the award winning Tithe Barn café is the perfect place to plan your day. Order one of their locally produced cakes or try a cup of their own brand Bowland Bowbearer coffee, as you pour over their selection of walking leaflets or sit back and admire the permanent display of works by local artists. The café is converted from a 300 year old barn which forms part of the Browsholme Hall estate. Occupied by the Parker family since 1507, the house and gardens are open to the public on specific days throughout the year, and the barn is also available as an unforgettable venue for weddings or conferences which can accommodate up to 120 guests. browsholme.com Forrest Hills Forrest Hills is a lovely rural venue surrounded by 180 acres of woodland, rivers and lakes. It’s a relaxed and inspiring setting for meetings and events, as well as offering all sorts of leisure activities from a scenic 10 hole golf course to a fully stocked fly fishing lake. Originally part of Banton House Farm, the Newsham family have diversified this area of the farm and believe passionately in maintaining the ‘local distinctiveness’ of the location. They grow and use as much produce from the land as possible, whether it’s wood and stone for building materials, or fruit and vegetables for catering. lancaster.ac.uk/conferences/spaces-facilities/venues/forrest-hills Slaidburn Village Hall This former Chapel now serves as a vibrant hub for community life in the pretty stone village of Slaidburn, as well as a flexible venue for all sorts of events from exhibitions to weddings and even stage performances. There is a main hall which overlooks the village green with the River Hodder running alongside, plus three meeting rooms, a gallery and a fully equipped kitchen to cater your event. The whole building was renovated in 2006 with conservation at its heart from the very beginning. Natural and locally sourced building materials were used wherever possible, and the venue is now run on a low carbon footprint using many simple touches such as low energy light bulbs and water saving devices. There is also an innovative air to water heat pump which keeps visitors warm and snug throughout the Lancastrian winter. slaidburnvillagehall.co.uk For more information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland, Jackie King picks out a selection of restaurants, inns, markets and farm shops in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest England. The Forest of Bowland AONB is fast gaining a reputation for its foodie scene, and there are a growing number of excellent restaurants, pubs, tea rooms and farm shops all offering up the best produce the area has to offer. Traditionally it’s a sheep and cattle farming area, so you’ll often find delicious local lamb and beef on the menu, as well as pork and even wild boar. In fact many farmers in the area are choosing to rear traditional breeds and using traditional production techniques, to ensure the best quality and flavour. There are also classic and modern varieties of Lancashire cheese, milk and ice cream to try, and look out for wild, seasonal food such as bilberries from the moors and damsons, sloes and elderflowers from the hedgerows. We’ve selected some of the best spots for enjoying the region’s produce, whether it’s simply visiting a farmers market, tucking in to an indulgent cream tea, or sitting down for a full three-course dinner. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Forest of Bowland: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in the Forest of Bowland The Red Pump As one of the oldest inns in the Ribble Valley, (rumoured to have been built before 1756), The Red Pump Inn nestles in the pretty hamlet of Bashall Eaves and serves up a varied, rustic menu using all local meat, game, cheeses and vegetables. The small team here describe themselves as ‘boringly passionate’ about good food, and it seems to have paid off as they have picked up various awards and recommendations over the last few years, including Taste Lancashire, the Michelin Guide and Alaistair Sawday to name but a few. The menu changes to reflect the seasons, supported by a daily specials' board. The team also go to great lengths to source their ingredients as locally as possible, with the herbs only needing to travel from as far as the Inn’s own back garden. theredpumpinn.co.uk The Parkers Arms This contemporary country inn has was originally the coach house of adjacent Newton Hall. It was taken over by owners Kathy and Stosie in January 2007 to be lovingly refurbished before finally re-opening in December 2009 with a rustic yet modern decor. They offer have a standard menu of classic pub dishes, plus a daily three course set menu and a constantly changing seasonal specials menu. Here you’ll typically find dishes sourced just a few miles down the down, for example poached Slaidburn egg and Dunsop Bridge smoked trout (3 miles) or slow roast shoulder of Newton in Bowland hogget with wild Bowland garlic (1 mile). parkersarms.co.uk The Inn at Whitewell Head Chef Jamie Cadman, now in his fourteenth year here, heads up the team at the award winning The Inn at Whitewell. Jamie’s ethos is to produce brilliant local food using only the best local ingredients, and cook it simply to let the real quality shine through. Seasonal grouse from the Lancashire Moors, pheasant and partridge from Dunsop shoots, Bowland beef and Lonk lamb from Burholme Farm are all staples on the menu. They have also carefully source an excellent range of drinks from local cask conditioned ales to organic ginger beers, and their in-house vintners offer an extensive and interesting range of wines, with up to twenty available by the glass. innatwhitewell.com The Highwayman Inn This 18th century inn is thought to have once been the haunt of a notorious Lancashire highwayman. Whether or not the legend is true, the food is fast gaining a reputation of its very own. Following a £1.2m renovation in 2007, the inn now calls itself not a gastro pub but a 21st century version of ‘a local’. In practice this means offering a seasonal menu of regional cookery and British classics, sourced from a select crowd of local artisan suppliers, plus a great line up of ales, ciders and guest beers. If the weather is in your favour, you can enjoy your meal in the private, terraced garden surrounded by local plants, herbs and fruit trees. Or cosy up in the atmospheric dining room with its craggy stone floors, solid wood furniture and crackling log fire. https://www.brunningandprice.co.uk/highwayman/homepage/ The Three Fishes For over 400 years, The Three Fishes has been a traditional stop off on the old road between the 16th century bridge at Lower Hodder and the Old Ferry at Mitton. Sadly it suffered form years of neglect but in 2004 it re-opened with a new menu inspired by Nigel Haworth, Chef Patron of nearby Northcote and has gone on to acquire a cluster of awards. The pub is very family friendly, with a children’s menu that is simply a smaller version of the regional menu, with lots of fresh, organic food that has been given a twist that kids will enjoy. They can tuck in free range, rare breed chipolatas or locally sourced chicken with seasonal vegetables, whilst the adults work their way through Nigel’s famous hotpot or the Length of Lancashire Cheese Board. brunningandprice.co.uk Gibbon Bridge A luxurious country hotel with thirty spacious bedrooms, Gibbon Bridge near Clitheroe is set in 23 acres of award winning gardens, making it a wonderful location for a relaxing stay. The restaurant itself overlooks Longridge Fell, and offers a variety of dining areas, from the Cavalier Lounge with its open fire and comfy chairs, to the new contemporary Orangerie which opens out onto a spacious terrace. The hotel boasts its own kitchen garden, greenhouses and polytunnels to provide fresh herbs, fruit and vegetables to the chefs and in-house baker. The bakery supplies a daily selection of fresh breads, confectionery, jams, ice cream and desserts for the hotel, restaurant and surrounding villages. gibbon-bridge.co.uk The Cabin Cafe You’ll find this snug little cabin located next to Barley Picnic Site, nominated one of the ten best picnic sites in the North West. Surrounded by stunning countryside and at the foot of the magnificent Pendle Hill, it’s often used as a refuelling spot by walkers climbing the hill or trekking the Pendle Witches Trail or the Pendle Way. Depending on the weather, you can take refuge inside and tuck in to their selection of sandwiches, cakes and drinks, or on a sunny day grab a picnic table and marvel at the view over refreshing drink. The café also serves as a small information point for local sights and walking routes. visitlancashire.com Riverbank Tearooms A family run, country café on the banks of the River Hodder in Slaidburn, often described as the most picturesque village in Lancashire. Popular with passing walkers and cyclists, here you’ll find delicious, home-cooked meals, snacks and cakes made with GM-Free, local produce wherever possible. They’ll also provide you with a take-away packed lunch on request, to fuel your countryside adventures. riverbanktearooms.co.uk Bashall Barn Food Visitor Centre This farm-based shop, café and restaurant is a great one-stop-shop for sampling great regional dishes and then taking away the best local ingredients to recreate them at home. Opened in 2001, the farm shop stocks a range of ready meals, cakes, jams and preserves all made on site by their team of professionals. Also don’t miss the award winning, contemporary restaurant which serves up seasonal, traditional lunches and delicious afternoon teas accompanied by a live pianist. bashallbarn.co.uk For more information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland, Nicola Forsyth explores the fells, green valleys and heather moorland of this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest England. Wild and remote, it is a haven for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and birdwatchers located in north-east Lancashire - with the exception of a small area that spills into North Yorkshire. Photos: Diana Jarvis/Greentraveller Where to stay All of the accommodation featured in this guide have received grading by the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) in recognition of their actions to conserve their natural environment. Larger parties - particularly those wanting to be within easy reach of the Three Peaks, Pendle Hill and Malham Tarn - may want to savour the experience of staying in a 400 year old camping barn. Family owned Dale House Barn and B&B on the edge of Gisburn Forest can house up to 14 people in the barn - as well as B&B options in the main house. Not too far away, you’ll find another B&B option in Cobden Farm, where you can enjoy the (literally) warm welcome of freshly baked scones with butter and jam on arrival. Its two spacious bedrooms overlook the sprawling Sabden Valley. A home cooked breakfast of locally sourced produce can be enjoyed in the conservatory to views of the pond and valley. With easy access to two public footpaths, three golf courses within five miles and horse riding and fishing available nearby, you won’t be short of activities. Nestled in the Ribble Valley, you’ll find Middle Flass Lodge - a converted barn and former cow byre that is now a hotel and restaurant serving up a menu of fresh local produce whenever possible. Just eight miles from Clitheroe, it’s a great spot for exploring the surrounding area by foot or bike. If you’re visiting with your dog, consider the Craigwell Hotel - an 11 bedroom guest house which allows dogs in certain rooms, but be sure to call to book in advance. Sitting on Morecambe's East Promenade, its location overlooks Morecambe Bay and offers much fabled views of the sun setting as well as the Lake District mountains. The hotel offers locally sourced fairtrade food as much as possible. Often neglected in the accommodation stakes, solo travelers will be happy to stumble across the ‘Piggery’ at Malkin Tower Farm Holiday Cottages, which offers a cosy stay for individuals wanting to get away from it all. There are two luxury self catering holiday cottages - Demdyke Cottage and Device Cottage - for parties of two or more. Malkin Tower is ideally located for walking holidays and has won a number of awards for its dedication to sustainable travel and preserving the environment. Where to eat Traditionally a sheep and cattle farming area, you’ll find lots of local lamb and beef on the menu, as well as pork and even wild boar. Dairy highlights include classic and modern varieties of Lancashire cheese as well as ice cream. Foragers can keep their eyes peeled for wild, seasonal fruits including bilberries on the moors and damsons, sloes and elderflowers in the hedgerows. For an award winning menu of local meat, game, cheeses and vegetables washed down with real ales and fine wines against the glow of a log fire, head to The Red Pump Inn in the pretty hamlet of Bashall Eaves. One of the oldest inns in the Ribble Valley (rumoured to have been built before 1756) it has won various awards and recommendations for its food over the last few years, including Taste Lancashire, the Michelin Guide and Alaistair Sawday to name but a few. Ingredients are as locally sourced as possible - with herbs fresh from the garden. There’s onsite B&B accommodation if you can’t bring yourself to leave. To dine in another traditional pub, stop by The Highwayman Inn - an 18th century inn thought to have been the haunt of a notorious Lancashire highwayman. In 2007, it was subject to a £1.2m renovation and now considers itself the 21st century version of ‘a local’. The menu consists of classic British dishes accompanied with more far flung influences, served with a selection of ales, ciders and guest beers. The menu is uploaded to the website daily before noon so you can whet your appetite in advance. For a luxury dining experience in a country hotel head to Gibbon Bridge near Clitheroe. Set in 23 acres of award winning gardens, it offers a variety of dining areas, from the Cavalier Lounge with its open fire and comfy chairs, to the new contemporary Orangery which opens out onto a spacious terrace. Locally sourced produce doesn’t come much more local here - many herbs, fruit and vegetables come direct from the kitchen garden, greenhouses and polytunnels, freshly picked each morning. The in-house bakery produces a daily selection of fresh breads, confectionery, jams, ice cream and desserts for the hotel, restaurant and surrounding villages. Weary walkers may seek refuge and the opportunity to refuel in the Cabin Cafe located next to Barley Picnic Site - which happens to have been nominated one of the ten best picnic sites in the North West. Sitting at the foot of the Pendle Hill, it is a convenient pit stop for those climbing the hill or trekking the Pendle Witches Trail or the Pendle Way. The cabin offers sandwiches, cakes and drinks. Bashall Barn Food Visitor Centre houses an award winning restaurant serving up breakfasts, traditional lunches and afternoon tea - against the beautiful backdrop of the Ribble Valley, and if you’re lucky, to the sounds of a live pianist. If you can’t get enough of the local produce, be sure to stock up in the farm shop, which offers ready meals, cakes, jams and preserves and hampers - all made on site. Where to visit If you’re looking for wild countryside, colourful gardens, local art exhibitions, chocolate box villages and quaint tea rooms you’ve come to the right place. There is a range of cultural and natural attractions for adults and children alike. Don’t know where to start on getting here? Make the Bowland Visitor Centre in Beacon Fell Country Park your first port of call. Here you’ll find a wealth of information about the Fell, Forest of Bowland and surrounding area, as well as a team of volunteers to help you on your way. If you choose to explore Beacon Fell, you’ll find a network of paths for walkers, cyclists and horse riders as well as a sculpture trail, for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, but you can go off-piste if you’d prefer the freedom to roam and find your own path. Horticulturalists will find a slice of heaven at Waddow Lodge Garden. Head Gardener Peter Foley has been collecting the many hundreds of plants to be seen (and smelled) here for more than 40 years. Members of the Green Tourism Business Scheme, he and fiancee Liz use environmentally friendly gardening techniques and compost all available waste material. As well as the many varieties of plants, fruits and vegetables, there’s an orchard, wildflower area and a wet meadow, designed to attract wildlife into the garden. If you're visiting with children you may want to check out Bowland Wild Boar Park, where the little ones (and the big ones!) can see and feed the llamas, deer, goats, lambs and chicks. Living up to its namesake, the park also offers opportunities to watch the wild boar and Longhorn Cattle to be found grazing around Ribble Country Park. Stay overnight in one of the camping pods and spend the days riding tractors and trailers and learning more about your new furry friends at the educational eco lodge. Embedded in the Forest of Bowland, you’ll find Browsholme Hall. Home to the Parker Family since 1507, it hosts a programme of events across the year, including garden workshops, displays of local art, ghost tours and for a fortnight in December the Hall is elaborately decorated for Christmas. The house and expansive gardens are open to the public on certain days throughout the year and there’s even a private nature trail. Don’t leave without sampling the locally produced cakes or sipping the own brand Bowland Bowbearer coffee at the award winning Tithe Barn café, which was converted from a 300 year old barn. It also makes for a unique wedding venue for up to 120 guests. Surrounded by 180 acres of woodland, rivers and lakes, Forrest Hills is a relaxing and inspiring setting for meetings and events - as well as offering a number of leisure activities including a 10 hole golf course and fully stocked fly fishing lake. The family grow and use as much produce from the land as possible - from wood and stone for building materials to fruit and vegetables for catering. [Feels geared more towards corporate visitors] Another events venue with heritage and character is Slaidburn Village Hall. A former Chapel it is now a hub for community life in the stone village of Slaidburn, and caters to a variety of events - from weddings to stage performances. The main hall overlooks the village green with the River Hodder running alongside. The building was renovated in 2006 with conservation at its heart. Natural and locally sourced building materials were used wherever possible, and the venue is conscious to keep its carbon footprint as small as possible - with many simple touches such as low energy light bulbs and water saving devices. There is also an innovative air to water heat pump to keep visitors warm during winter. Things to do For lovers of the great outdoors, the Forest of Bowland is a natural playground. Walkers, cyclists, nature lovers, bird watchers, adventure seekers and fishing enthusiasts will be at home here. Walkers were granted access to additional parts of Bowland in 2004 for the first time. A relatively new collection of 'Access for All' routes make it easier for those less able to get around to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. You'll find a list of accommodations and other businesses dedicated to helping you enjoy your time here, whether that's by offering up a great bird-watching spot, or providing all necessary facilities for walkers and cyclists. Star gazers will be pleased to know the skies over Bowland are some of the darkest in England - and the AONB is home to five Dark Sky Discovery Sites. As well as constellations, planets including Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus can be visible during clear nights at certain times of the year. Many businesses are also certified 'Dark Sky Friendly', which means they've attended a training workshop and are doing their bit to reduce light pollution. How to get to the Forest of Bowland by public transport By train Clitheroe Interchange is the most central rail station for Bowland. Others include Giggleswick, Clapham, Bentham, Wennington, Settle, Blackburn, Burnley, Preston and Lancaster. Visit National Rail Enquiries for journey details from your starting point. The Bentham Line links Leeds and Skipton in the east with Lancaster and Morecambe, skirting the northern edge of the Forest of Bowland. The Clitheroe Line links Manchester, Bolton and Blackburn with Clitheroe. Getting around by bus Buses 66 and 67 run Monday to Saturday skirting Pendle Hill, providing links between Clitheroe, Waddington, Grindleton, Chatburn, Barley, Barrowford and Nelson. To the west of the Bowlands lies the market town of Garstang, a perfect gateway to Bowland, and easily reached every day by bus 40 between Preston and Lancaster. In the Lune Valley, buses 80 and 81 provide connections, Monday to Saturday, from Lancaster to Caton and Hornby, with some services going through to Wray, Wennington and Low Bentham en route to Kirkby Lonsdale or Ingleton. For uptodate timetables, visit lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/public-transport/bus-timetables.aspx#. For more ideas of green holidays in the Forest of Bowland, see our: Green Traveller's Guide to the Forest of Bowland

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale, here's our pick of characterful places to stay in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in northwest England. Considering the AONB’s compact size, there’s a remarkable choice of places to stay, and for all budgets. Arnside makes a great base from which to explore the area. It’s a 5-minute amble from the train station is to the promenade and everything you need (cafes, shops and a cracking pub) are all within arm’s reach. A row of Victorian townhouses offers some great options (and we’ve picked out a few highlights below), but there’s also a youth hostel further up the hill if you’re on a budget. If you’re after absolute calm and expansive views of Morecambe Bay, then Silverdale and the surrounding area has plenty of homely options. The eastern fringes of the AONB are quieter still and feel thoroughly off the beaten track, while still being within reach of the area’s attractions. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Arnside & Silverdale Challan Hall, Arnside & Silverdale, England A beautiful, homely haven for birdwatchers, this cosy B&B is situated on the doorstep of Silverdale and Leighton Moss Nature Reserve. Come to find glorious walks, flourishing wildlife and cooked breakfasts to rival your mother's. There aren’t many places where you can sit on a sunny terrace and watch marsh harriers cavorting in the air and see ospreys fishing, but this well-heeled B&B overlooking Hawes Water on the edge of Gait Barrows NNR is one of them. It’s an ideal base for exploring the area, situated just outside Silverdale, with plentiful walks from your doorstep and Leighton Moss just a stone’s throw away. The breakfast is a real treat (Alastair Sawday said Charlotte’s scrambled eggs were the best he’s ever tasted and it’s hard to disagree). The comfy social areas and traditional decor (packed with mementos from the owner’s travels) make it feel especially homely. challanhall.co.uk/arnside-silverdale No. 43, Arnside and Silverdale, England Winner of Visit England's Best Breakfast and 2011 Best B&B in England Awards, No. 43 provides a luxurious five star service 'without the stuffiness'. With glorious surrounding views of the lake district, it's a guaranteed treat both inside and out. In an enormous Victorian townhouse overlooking the Arnside promenade, No.43 offers all the comfort you’d expect in a luxury hotel, but with those personal touches that make a stay special, such as homemade flapjacks on arrival and a decanter of sherry in every room. There are six individually-designed en-suite rooms, but if you’re after something extra special, make a beeline for suite 2 with its bay window and a bath made for two; or suite 7, which feels particularly cosy with an oak sleigh bed and real fire. Amiable host Lesley renovated the building using local products: herdwick wool carpets, Cumbrian-made beds and Stoke-on-Trent pottery. Breakfast is equally focused on local produce: artisan bread from Windermere, sausages from Silverdale, chutneys from Hawkshead, smoked fish from the Port of Lancaster and coffee ground in Skipton. no43.org.uk Wolf House Cottages, Arnside and Silverdale, England Rent one of two gorgeous stone cottages set within a 17th century farmstead looking out over the flourishing Morecambe Bay. These family friendly, self-catered houses offer the cosy luxury of a country retreat with a bit of added privacy. These two self-catering cottages on the fringes of Silverdale (The Coach House sleeping up to 8 and The Old Cottage sleeping up to 4 adults and 2 children) are a real find. In fact, most guests re-book as soon as they leave so it pays to book in advance. It’s hard to put your finger on what makes the cottages so special. Perhaps it’s the setting, in a quiet hamlet just 10 minutes’ walk from Silverdale, with views over Morecambe Bay. Mainly though it comes down to your inimitable host, Denise, who bought the cluster of buildings – a 17th-century cow shippen – 40 years ago and has been restoring and filling them with British arts and crafts ever since. Each cottage is furnished with one-of-a-kind artefacts: hand-bodged chairs, original John Leach’s Muchelney pottery and antique plates. Behind the cottages you’ll find a quietly bustling courtyard with a cafe and galleries. wolfhousecottages.co.uk Pye Hall Cottage, Arnside and Silverdale, England With stunning walks available straight from the door, this charming cottage with it's cosy interior and spacious private garden is a island of tranquillity. Don your walking boots to lose yourself in the nearby Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This charming semi-detached self-catering cottage on the outskirts of Silverdale has been beautifully converted and decorated in fresh, country tones, while retaining many of the original features, such as beautiful wooden doors and beamed ceilings. A gas stove in the lounge will keep you cosy in the evenings, and there’s a selection of board games, books and DVDs. Outside, there’s a spacious garden and a tempting array of walks right from the doorstep. The cottage sleeps up to four in two double rooms and one single. All the amenities of Silverdale, including a couple of traditional country pubs, are within a pleasant 15-minute walk. sykescottages.co.uk Culdene, Arnside and Silverdale, England With the Warton Crag nature reserve quite literally on the doorstep, this cosy, one-bedroom apartment is the perfect setting for a quiet country getaway. Set within an organic smallholding (complete with sheep and chickens) it's also dog friendly! A one-bedroom, self-catering apartment in Warton, on the southern edge of the AONB. It's traditional and caters mostly for retired guests who have come to love the area. Outside there’s a pretty courtyard, which is ideal for sunny evenings, and a giant chess board. The house is set within an organic smallholding with chickens, sheep and an allotment and you can walk straight through the grounds and up on to Warton Crag - or even stretch your legs further by continuing over to Leighton Moss. Walkers welcome and it is dog-friendly. culdene.co.uk/ Lake Cottage, Arnside and Silverdale, England Set within gorgeous surroundings, this 200-year-old stone cottage boasts a private lake side hide, ideal for watching nesting marsh harriers. It's also the perfect place to indulge your imagination, reportedly being the old haunt of a Cold War spy. A two-bedroom old gamekeeper’s cottage at the end of a drover’s road, at the heart of Gait Barrows NNR. Apparently, the previous lady owner was a spy in the 1960s. This was her bolt hole, where she came to make jam and pootle about on her bike, which owner Andrew discovered in the shed when he took over the building three years ago. Since then, Andrew has been sensitively renovating the building, peeling back the layers of this 200-year-old cottage and discovering original Victorian tiles and an old inglenook fireplace along the way. He’s also added thoughtful pieces such as church pew seats and a quirky wooden kitchen and built a boardwalk through the reeds to a private jetty overlooking Hawes Water. silverdale-cottage.co.uk Beetham Holiday Homes, Cumbria, England This static caravan park (for live-in holiday homes) offers something rather unique. Owner Craig Russell was brought up with a deep appreciation of nature and runs the park with a real commitment to conservation. This static caravan park (for live-in holiday homes) offers something rather unique. Owner Craig Russell was brought up with a deep appreciation of nature and runs the park with a real commitment to conservation. Half of the land – a mixture of wild flower meadows, wet meadows, coppiced woodland and ancient woodland on the north eastern side of the AONB – is managed with wildlife in mind and over the years it has become rich with orchids, hedgerow birds and rare moths and butterflies. Each holiday home is surrounded by hedges (several kilometres in total), which provide a refuge for birdlife and hedge-loving plants such as lily of the valley, bluebells, primroses and cowslips. beethamholidayhomes.co.uk For ideas of local food and drink, visitor attractions and outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of natural areas, gardens, animal centres and other family fun experiences in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest England. Calm Victorian grandeur, Quaker history, leafy lanes and stop-you-in-your-tracks beauty, each of the region’s villages has something rather special to offer curious visitors. Take your time to explore their hidden corners (and stop in for tea and cake at the many fine cafes along the way). Walk further afield and you’ll soon realise there’s something rather unique about this at first unassuming region. That little extra something all comes down to the limestone, which underpins a host of habitats and shapes the character of the whole region. At Warton Crag and Trowbarrow it’s sheer and formidable, home to circling ravens, jackdaws and peregrine falcons. On Arnside Knott it breaks through the moor-grass in ragged peaks while, perhaps most charmingly, at Gait Barrows and Fairy Steps, it hides within woodland and creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Spend some time getting to know the geology and you’ll come to understand what sets the AONB apart – and why you’ll find so many rare species within such a small area. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in Arnside & Silverdale Arnside This Victorian seaside resort at the far northern edge of the AONB has a quiet, unhurried charm. Well served by the train line, it’s a great base from which to explore the area. It’s also a place to idle and enjoy simple pleasures: to eat fish and chips on the pier, amble along the promenade at sunset, watch herons gingerly stepping in the shallows and listen to the sand fizzing as the tide draws out. Keep an eye out for clusters of people on the prom, binoculars in hand, because this means something exciting is about to happen: the tidal bore is approaching or a steam train is due to cross the bridge. The promenade at Arnside is a great spot to watch the tidal bore, which occurs when the huge tidal range in Morecambe Bay is forced through the narrow Kent Estuary. When it full spate, it’s a formidable sight. On a spring tide it can be anything up to a metre in height, travelling faster than you can run and covering the sand up to 3.5m in a matter of minutes. In summer, a siren gives warning of the incoming tide, sounding once 15-20 minutes before the tide is due and again when the bore reaches Blackstone Point. When walking on coastal footpath it pays to be aware of tide times and take heed of the notices to never stray onto the sands. There’s more than a tidal bore to worry about out there! arnside-online.co.uk/walks.htm Beetham & Fairy Steps Beetham is one of those pretty-as-a-postcard villages that will stop you in your tracks. Step inside St Michael’s Church to marvel at their remarkable wooden ceiling and stained glass windows depicting ‘Charles the Martyr’ (I wonder which side they were on). Pop in for afternoon tea at the Old Post Office Tea Room or for a pint at the unbearably attractive Wheatsheaf Inn, which has been welcoming guests since 1609 - first as a farmhouse providing meals to local farm labourers and later as a coaching stop for folk travelling from Lancaster to Carlisle. Once you’ve had your fill, the walk to Fairy Steps is unmissable (allow 1 hour). The steps refer to a narrow cleft in a limestone cliff - and legend has it that if you can walk through the passage without touching the sides then you will be granted a wish by the fairies. Silverdale Silverdale is a rather spread out village, but it’s a delight to explore it’s leafy lanes by foot or by bike (although prepare your thighs for a couple of hills if you’re on two wheels). It’s worth taking your time to seek out the hidden corners - cut a path through acres of wild garlic at Bottoms Wood, follow an undulating lane down to Jenny Brown’s Point, seek out green winged orchids at The Lots (wild flower rich grassland in the middle of the village, leading down to a cove with views over Morecambe Bay) and take a book to sit on the Giant’s Seat at Jack Scout. This is one of only two cliffs in the area, so listen out for song-birds and watch for migrant birds taking a pit stop. The Yealands The Yealands (pronounced yell-ands) are a string of historic villages on the eastern side of Arnside and Silverdale AONB, including Redmayne, Conyers and Storrs. The area is associated with the Quaker movement. It’s here that leader George Fox preached secret meetings in the 17th century and established the Friends Meeting House in 1692. There’s plenty to explore in “1652 country,” both here and further afield, such as the Brigflatts, Firbank Fell and Quaker Tapestry in Kendal. The area is peppered with ruined lime kilns – a reminder of the trade that once fuelled the area. Nearby you’ll find Leighton Hall, home to the furniture making Gillow family. You can join informal guided tours of the hall 2-5pm, Tues-Fri, May-Sept, followed by a falconry display and afternoon tea in the tea rooms. Warton An historic village, nestling at the southern edge of the AONB just above Carnforth, which has strong connections with the Washington family and first president of the USA, George Washington. His ancestor, Lawrence Washington, was said to have built St Oswald’s Church. The church is well worth a visit – its exact origins are unknown, but it’s thought to date back to before the Norman Conquest in 1066 – you can explore the oldest still-standing part of the building at the Old Rectory. The village makes a great base from which to explore the southern Warton Crag and for longer walks over to Leighton Moss. At 163m, Warton Crag is the highest point in the AONB with far reaching views over the intertidal expanse of Morecambe Bay. The landscape consists of limestone cliffs, scars and outcrops and many birds make the crag their home: peregrine falcons nest on the quarried crag face, while kestrels hover in search of small prey. In the woodlands, you can hear green warblers, willow warblers, blackcaps, bullfinch and marsh tit. Between spring and autumn, wildflowers add colour to the grassland and woodland floor. The reserve is an important breeding group for moths and butterflies. Seek out the sunny corners for a chance of seeing the nationally threatened high brown fritillary. For ideas on nearby places to stay, local food and drink and outdoor adventure activities: Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Arnside & Silverdale, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of places to go for outdoor adventure activities in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest England. As one of England’s smallest AONBs, Arnside and Silverdale is a delight to explore under your own steam. With its relatively flat contours and an extensive network of both local and long distance cycling routes, it’s also an ideal spot for two-wheeled adventures. Sure, there’s the odd hill to conquer, but mostly you’ll find yourself pootling along quiet leafy lanes, stopping in at the many nature reserves and geological wonders, before devouring tea and cake at one of the region’s best eateries. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to Arnside & Silverdale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Arnside & Silverdale Arnside Knott to Far Arnside For a 3-4 hour walk, start on the Arnside promenade and amble alongside the Kent Estuary on a stone walkway, passing mudflats criss-crossed with rivulets and wildfowl footprints, before heading inland and uphill towards the Knott. As you climb, the landscape opens out into rich limestone grassland, with clusters of broadleaf trees and tangles of bracken. Patches of exposed limestone offer a tempting place to rest on the way and take in the views. The area is renowned for rare butterflies and wildflowers (see the National Trust's Arnside Knott and Heathwaite butterfly walk): keep a sharp look out for scotch angus, dark-green fritillary, green hairstreak, northern brown angus and pearl-bordered fritillaries. Loop back to the start via a narrow coastal path from Far Arnside around the headland, exploring limestone outcrops and deserted coves. Silverdale to Jack Scout Sea Cliff The coastline to the south of Silverdale is enchanting. Jack Scout is one of only two sea cliffs in the area, which makes it popular with songbirds as well as a pit stop for migrant birds. And it’s here you’ll find the aptly-named Giant’s Seat – a great stone bench overlooking Morecambe Bay. Beyond the seat, follow the path and turn right towards Jenny Brown’s Point. At high tide, you have a good chance of spotting flocks of waders roosting on the salt marsh, while low tide will stop you in your tracks with an ever-changing web of shimmering channels. Here you can find absolute and utter silence, aside from the occasional call of curlews. Reward your efforts by stopping for a coffee and a cake at the Wolfhouse Kitchen on your way back to Silverdale. Eaves Wood & the Pepperpot A romp through the woods to this striking folly, built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s golden jubilee, is well worth an hour of your time. At 250 feet above sea level, the summit rewards your efforts with 360 views. On a clear day, you’ll find yourself gazing at the great tabletop of Ingleborough towards the Yorkshire Dales and the Skiddaw Range to the north. You should even be able to pick out Blackpool Tower (find the Heysham Power Station, then look to the right along the horizon). Take your time descending through Eaves Wood, a tangle of ancient yews, oak and lime trees among explosed clints and grykes of limestone pavement. Look out for hawks in the open clearings and white witches in the ring of beech trees. Silverdale Cycle Hire and Holidays Jason from Silverdale Cycle Hire can kit you out with a lightweight hybrid bike and everything you need for a day out or longer excursion, then send you in the direction of quiet lanes and friendly pubs. He has a wealth of knowledge about the area and can let you know about a great selection of local routes, whether you fancy a flat ride along the Lancaster Canal towpath, a short amble through the pretty village of Beetham or a more challenging excursion to Kirkby Lonsdale. He also organises self-guided cycling holidays, with packages based on the Way of the Roses, Coast to Coast and Hadrian’s Wall (among others). As part of the price, he will book accommodation, provide all the route information you need and transfer your luggage as you go. For ideas on nearby places to stay, local food and drink, and local attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Arnside & Silverdale

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of local visitor attractions, from gardens and museums to visitor centres in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the north of England. Award-winning museums and exhibitions, verdant nature reserves and gardens, and England's largest waterfall - the North Pennines AONB is packed with fascinating natural and cultural spaces. From the multi award-winning Killhope Lead Mining Museum to the historic South Tynedale Railway, the region is rightfully proud of its industrial heritage, with a rich history in lead mining that dominated 18th and 19th centuries and ultimately transformed the landscape. Alternatively, you could make the most of the abundance of dramatic natural spaces, from High Force, England's largest waterfall, to High Cup Nick, a stunning glaciated valley on the Pennine fellside. You might also spend time exploring Hamsterley Forest, or birdwatching in the Geltsdale RSPB Nature Reserve. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the North Pennines: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in the North Pennines Ark on the Edge Not only is Ark on the Edge an animal rescue centre and sanctuary (complete with wildlife education centre), it is also home to a mile-long nature trail that takes you through fields and past a nature pond teeming with wildlife. The education centre offers a range of courses in animal care, while the entire site is open to visitors who can come and see the animals, enjoy a stroll along the nature trail and perhaps even take a dip in the pond if the weather allows. arkontheedge.org.uk Bowlees Visitor Centre Run by the AONB Partnership, this is the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Upper Teesdale. Close to the Pennine Way and both Low and High Force waterfalls. You’ll find advice and displays on walks, wildlife, geology and other local attractions. Cafe1618@Bowlees has a varied menu perfect for walkers and cyclists. Car park, accessible parking, an electric car charge point, toilets, local art, gift shop, a picnic area, woodland trails and events. northpennines.org.uk Eggleston Hall Gardens A wonderful green space run by Malcolm Hockham, one of the best-known horticulturists in the north of England. You'll be free to explore four acres of gardens and tree nursary, as well as a 16th century churchyard complete with chapel ruins and a handful of rare plant species, not to mention a series of winding paths and a tranquil moorland stream. The private nursery is only open for two weeks each year, but if you do pay a visit you'll discover many rare plant species egglestonhallgardens.co.uk Geltsdale RSPB Nature Reserve Home to black grouse, birds of prey and breeding wading birds, Geltsdale RSPB reserve is one of the best spots in the area for bird watching. It also boasts a wonderfully varied landscape, from blanket bog to colorful hay meadows, and is a fantastic walking destination in its own right. You'll also find four separate waymarked trails, including the 1-2 hour Stagsike Trail. Once you reach Stagsike Cottages there's a visitor centre and art gallery that are well worth a visit. Geltsdale currently holds a Gold award with the GTBS. rspb.org.uk Hamsterley Forest Hamsterley is Country Durham's largest forest, offering some 2000 hectares of mixed woodland lying between the Wear and Tees valleys at the very edge of the North Pennines AONB. With a mixture of deciduous woodland, meadows and coniferous woods, Hamsterley is an ideal location for both walking and cycling, as well as horse riding. Cyclists are particularly well catered for, with bike hire facilities and a downhill mountain bike course for adventure seekers. forestryengland.uk/hamsterley-forest Harehope Quarry Project With the very admirable aim of promoting a more sustainable way of living, the Harehope Quarry Project has developed a fish farm and smallholding, as well as a fantastic nature reserve and eco-classroom built exclusively by volunteers. Based in a former limestone quarry, the project offers a truly unique location for everything from environmental education and field studies to rural skills training. At the western end of the quarry, the nature reserve is a haven for many species of wildlife including birds and otters, and is also home to a fantastic geology garden. It goes without saying that the project has been awarded Gold by the GTBS. harehopequarry.org.uk High Force Waterfall A trip to the North Pennines wouldn't be complete without encountering the roar and gushing torrent of England's biggest waterfall. From its origin high on the heather covered fells at the top of the North Pennines, the River Tees continues to swell and gain speed until the moment it breaks free and plunges some 21 metres into the river below. In order to visit High Force, you'll follow a well-maintained gravel path through a short woodland trail that is a delight in itself. If you're looking for a kayaking or canoeing adventure, head downstream to Low Force, near Bowlees Visitor Centre. raby.co.uk/high-force/waterfall Moor House - Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve Take a quick trip to this beautiful reserve and you'll have the chance to spot some of the most impressive geological formations, waterfalls and vistas that the country has to offer. People interested in wildlife will be pleased to know that the reserve is famous for the rare spring gentian as well as being home to England's largest juniper wood. This is also a breeding ground for the black grouse, as well as the golden plover and ring ouzel. The area also offers up a range of walks and trails that stretch right across the reserve, including the fantastic Widdybank Fell Nature Trail, suitable for families and wheelchair users. gov.uk/government/publications/durhams-national-nature-reserves/durhams-national-nature-reserves The Garden Station You'll find this beautiful woodland garden and wonderfully restored Victorian railway station along the former Hexham to Allendale railway line. The garden itself is perfect for some quiet reflection, while the woodland walk was created in 2003 and is bordered by a collection of endemic plant species. Once you're done exploring you can enjoy some delicious home cooking using organic ingredients at the fabulous cafe. thegardenstation.co.uk Epiacum Roman Fort Epiacum is the highest stone-built Roman Fort in Britain. It housed a garrison of about 500 men, and was probably built to control mining for lead and silver. The Roman road, known as the Maiden Way, passes close by the fort. The site of the fort is open to visitors and is easily reached from Whitlow Farm. Alternatively, it can be reached from the Pennine Way, which passes alongside it. Plans to interpret the site for visitors are still at an early stage, but first-time visitors can join one of their guided walks. Alternatively, download a self-guided walk, which visits the fort as part of a 7.5 mile circular walk from Alston. epiacumheritage.org High Cup Nick One of the most dramatic examples of the North Pennines' unique landscape, the famous High Cup Gill and Nick is a deep chasm on the Pennine fellside. This glaciated U-shaped valley is formed by the well-known Whin Sill and the views from the top of the valley are some of the most impressive in the country. You can reach High Cup Nick by following the Pennine Way from Cow Green Reservoir in Upper Teesdale or from Dufton in the Eden Valley. visitcumbria.com Raby Castle Considered one of the finest Medieval castles in England, Raby Castle was built during the 14th century and has been home to Lord Barnard's family since 1626. Gain access to the castle itself and you'll be free to explore the cavernous hall, medieval kitchen and drawing room, many of which display fine furniture and artworks. However, with a 200 acre deer park, magnificent ornamental walled gardens and a traditional coach house, be sure to spend just as much time exploring the castle grounds, too. raby.co.uk/raby-castle/ Durham Dales Centre This fantastic visitor centre in Weardale is not just well stocked with local information - you'll also be able to pick up some delicious home baked food to enjoy in the tearoom or out in the garden. Also on site you'll find a range of shops selling everything from local books and maps to specialist photography and local handmade crafts. The gardens are well worth a bit of exploration, and kids will love the animal treasure trail. durhamdalescentre.co.uk South Tynedale Railway Hop on the historic South Tynedale Railway and take a scenic tour through the picturesque South Tynedale Valley, leaving from Alston and arriving at either Kirkhaugh or Lintley. The trip to Kirkhaugh is just over 2 miles, with many highlights including carved deer welcoming you to Kirkhaugh and beautiful open countryside with views of an Epiacum Roman Fort, plus streams and open moorland. Once you've arrived in either Kirkhaugh or Lintley, there's plenty of walking opportunities, plus the Alston station also boasts a gift shop and cafe. south-tynedale-railway.org.uk Bowes Museum Surrounded by beautiful grounds, this stunning museum has recently undergone a huge renovation and offers a fantastic 21st century visitor attraction. Pay Bowes a visit and you'll discover a fantastic collection of fine and decorative arts within a handful of new galleries. Once you've enjoyed looking at everything from photography and paintings to sculpture and wood carving, you'll be able to relax in Cafe Bowes and enjoy sumptuous fare made using local produce wherever possible. thebowesmuseum.org.uk Weardale Museum and High House Chapel An independent folk museum set up by volunteers back in 1985 to preserve the heritage of Weardale. There's a surprisingly large amount to see and do here, from visiting the Weardale kitchen for a hands-on experience of what life was like during the lead-mining period to discovering a fantastic collection of Weardale fossils and minerals, as well as learning about the quarrymen who collected them. Another highlight is the Weardale Tapestry, a beautiful 15ft-long free style embroidery that depicts the history of Weardale and finally there is access to High House Chapel, the oldest Methodist chapel in continuous weekly use, and the story of John Wesley and his travelling evangelists. weardalemuseum.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of low impact activities, from walking and cycling to wildlife watching and other activities in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the north of England. The North Pennines AONB is a haven for adventure seekers - whether you're looking to walk, run, cycle, canoe, kayak or simply to admire the moorlands and hay meadows. This unique landscape of open heather moorland, vibrant hay meadows and dense woodland makes for a fantastic activity holiday destination, packed as it is with waymarked walking trails, cycle routes and open access land. The landscape is also a spectacle in its own right, with a remarkably high concentration of conservation sites and some of England's oldest and rarest ecosystems. There's also plenty of scope for fun on the water, with the rivers Tyne, Wear and Tees providing plentiful opportunities for everything from canoeing and kayaking to sailing. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the North Pennines: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in the North Pennines Eden Outdoor Adventures Are you keen to explore the region's mountains and valleys but feel you're lacking the experience? Activity provider Eden Outdoor Adventures offer a guided trip called Pennine Way High Point - Hadrian's Wall to Dufton. This 2-day trip will allow you to enjoy this fantastic section of the Pennine Way in the mighty North Pennines! edenoutdooradventures.co.uk Wild North Discovery Let an experienced wildlife guide help you get right up close and personal with many kinds of wildlife in the North Pennines. From fascinating evenings in the company of bats and badgers to watching black grouse and tracking other wildlife, these trips won't fail in bringing you closer to nature. The sessions can run from half a day to a full week, and other activities include bushcrafts, willow basket making and firecraft and wilderness cooking. natureholiday.co.uk Derwent Reservoir Set in a beautiful Pennine Valley on the border between Northumberland and Durham, Derwent Reservoir is 3.5 miles long and offers up around a thousand acres of clean and open water that is devoted to windsurfing and sailing. Whether you're a novice or an expert, you'll be able to head out and enjoy an action-packed day. If you are hoping to book lessons, look no further than the Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club, which boasts a two storey clubhouse and a range of lessons and activities suiting all ages and abilities. drsc.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of characterful places to stay, from hotels and cottages to barns and farmhouses in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the north of England. It doesn't matter whether you've come to the North Pennines AONB to enjoy a fun-filled activity week with the family or a romantic weekend break with a loved one, choosing the right accommodation for you is one of the most important decisions you can make. Which is why we've put together this list of the best places to stay in the region, from lavish castle hotels to comfortable family-run barns and bunkhouses, secluded self-catering cottages to award-winning pubs with rooms - make a holiday to suit you, whether you're looking for a home cooked breakfast and a roaring log fire, a four-poster bed or a simple place to crash after a long day. Better yet, every one of the accommodations listed is committed to conserving their natural environment - many have been accredited by the Green Tourism Business Scheme or have won a David Bellamy Conservation Award. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the North Pennines: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in the North Pennines Howlugill Barn, County Durham, England A 17th-century farmhouse with a contemporary touch in the Durham Dales & the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Luxurious, affordable accommodation: great for walkers, travellers, bird spotters and anyone who loves the great outdoors. howlugillbarn.co.uk Isaac's Byre, Cumbria, England This cosy barn conversion is ideal for a tranquil getaway, situated right in the middle of the beautiful North Pennines. With walks and gorgeous scenery on the doorstep it’s perfect for nature loving families. isaacsbyre.com Low Cornriggs Farm, County Durham, England Set on a working farm this charming B&B and two holiday cottages are perfect for getting a taste of authentic country life. The gorgeous surrounding meadows and upper moorlands are a haven for wildlife, from birds to rare varieties of flora and fauna cornriggsfarm.co.uk Newlands Hall, County Durham, England This cosy and welcoming farmhouse B&B is set on a working farm in the North Pennines, surrounded by spectacular views. With several available stables, this is the perfect place for those looking to explore the area by hoof. newlandshall.co.uk The Red Brick Barn, North Pennines, England This gorgeous self-catered barn is set within the beautiful North Pennines and is perfect for families and those with pets. Find pigs, sheep, chickens, hens and geese, as well as fantastic walks right on the doorstep! prydale.com Slack House Farm, North Pennines, England Simple, clean and comfortable accommodation on this organic working farm in the North Pennines. Situated within the ‘Heart of Hadrian’s Wall’, this is an ideal location for lovers of walking, cycling, horse riding and pony trekking. slackhousefarm.co.uk Cobblestone Barn, Cumbria, England Set in the bucolic Cumbrian village of Melmerby, this lovely converted barn is ideal for a family getaway. And with its fantastic location between the North Pennines and the Lake District, there’s plenty of stunning scenery to soak up. sykescottages.co.uk Carrs Farm Bunkhouse, County Durham, England Surrounded by gorgeous scenery, this fun-filled organic working farm is ideal for families, providing a range of educational and leisure activities, from zorbing, paintballing and white water rafting to rambling and birdwatching. carrsfarm.co.uk Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland, England This stunning 14th century castle is the perfect choice for those looking for a bit of luxury, some history, and a lot of character. Not only is it set right on the border of the North Pennines AONB, it also boasts its own 10 acre woodland estate. langleycastle.co.uk Lowbyer Manor Country House, North Pennines, England Set in the middle of the stunning North Pennines, this beautiful listed Georgian house hotel is perfect for a tranquil getaway. Enjoy the abundant surrounding wildlife, including deer and red squirrels, as well as delicious award-winning breakfasts. lowbyer.com Blackton Grange, North Pennines, England Surrounded by stunning scenery and complete with a roaring open log fireplace, this beautiful stone farmhouse is the perfect venue for large group holidays, parties, business training and conferences, and even wedding receptions. blacktongrangefarmhouse.com Deneholme Country House Hotel, North Pennines, England Set in the bucolic village of Allendale, this beautiful Edwardian manor offers a range of exciting activities and is ideal for family reunions, educational groups and conferences. It also forms a wonderful setting for wedding receptions. northumberlandadventurecentre.co.uk Dowfold House B&B, County Durham, England Let yourself (and your dog) be pampered at this elegent, homely Victorian B&B. Enjoy award winning breakfasts as well as fabulous walking and cycling routes. dowfoldhouse.com Haggs Bank Bunkhouse, North Pennines, England Get back to basics at this clean, comfortable and friendly bunkhouse and its adjoining campsite. Not only is it surrounded by the glorious scenery of the North Pennines, it also boasts its own beautiful patch of woodland and wildflower meadow. haggsbank.com Ninebanks Hostel, North Pennines, England Set in a beautiful 17th century lead mining house, this comfortable and welcoming hostel is located right in the middle of the gorgeous North Pennines. With the C2C cycle route close by it’s an ideal base for cyclists. ninebanks.org.uk YHA Dufton Hostel, North Pennines, England This cosy hostel is ideally situated for nature lovers, with the Pennine Way, Cross Fell and High Cup Nick all close by. Spend your days exploring and have a delicious three-course dinner waiting to welcome you back! yha.org.uk High Broadwood Hall Cottages, Northumberland, England Surrounded by utter peace and tranquility, these two beautifully-restored, eco-friendly cottages are set in the gorgeous Northumberland countryside with magnificent views of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. highbroadwoodhallcottages.co.uk Southlands Farm Cottages, Northumberland, England Three award winning luxury self catering cottages surrounded by farmland in Northumberland, an area famed for its outstanding natural beauty. Great for visiting its breathtaking beaches and stunning nature reserves or unwinding in the great outdoors. southlandsfarmcottages.co.uk East Briscoe Farm Cottages, County Durham, England Experience the beautiful, unspoilt landscape of Teesdale from these award-winning, farm cottages. The surrounding countryside with its woodlands, meadows, market towns and pretty villages is great for walking and cycling. eastbriscoe.co.uk Boot and Shoe Cottage, North Pennies, England Expect the warmest of welcomes, a roaring log fire, home made food and a real home-away-from-home from this riverside cottage in Teesdale. bootandshoecottage.co.uk Beckleshele Cottage, North Pennies, England Lying high in the wild moorlands of upper Weardale, this wonderfully restored lead miners cottage offer 4-star accommodation, perfect for walkers, cyclists and anyone wishing to explore the surrounding North Pennies AONB. beckleshele.co.uk Milburn Grange Cottages, North Pennies, England This collection of delightful holiday cottages lies directly below the Pennines, with some fantastic views of the Lake District fells. Sleeping between 2 and 6 people, each cottage is well-equipped and comfortable. milburngrange.co.uk Tottergill Farm Cottages, North Pennies, England In the heart of Cumbria, these award-winning cottages sleep between two and eight people and enjoy breathtaking views of both the Lake District and the Scottish hills. tottergill.co.uk Allendale Caravan Park, North Pennies, England A family-owned caravan park, Allendale is a haven for wildlife, having won the David Bellamy Conservation Award for six consecutive years. As well as the caravan site, there is also a 4* self-catering two bedroom flat. allendale-holidays.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of restaurants, cafés, markets and farm shops in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the north of England. Fresh produce is big business in the North Pennines, and there are a great many restaurants, cafes and farm shops offering up the best produce the North Pennines has to offer. Just a little exploration will result in uncovering some truly top quality North Pennines produce, from organically-reared beef and lamb, to award-winning dry cured bacon and countless organic local cheeses, breads and even real ales - all of which has been lovingly prepared by local people who put great pride in producing the greatest taste possible. It doesn't matter whether you visit a luxurious restaurant, a family-run farm shop or one of the monthly farmers' markets, the food is guaranteed to be top notch, healthy, and you'll have the added satisfaction of knowing that you're putting money straight back into the hands of the people responsible for producing it. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the North Pennines: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in the North Pennines Crown at Mickleton The Crown at Mickleton offers a range of deliciously traditional home cooked meals in comfortable, unpretentious surroundings. Open from 10am, you could even start your day with a slice of home baked cake in front of the refurbished bar's wood burning stove. Come lunch and dinner there's the chance to tuck into many pub favourites, all of which have been locally sourced and lovingly prepared. One of the favourites has to be the braised beef with Black Sheep ale stew, or the North Sea fish with handcut chips. Discerning ale drinkers will also be able to sample a wide range of cask ales. thecrownatmickleton.co.uk Eggleston Hall Coach House Restaurant Situated directly adjacent to the magnificent Eggleston Hall Gardens is the Coach House Bistro and Restaurant. The grand arched doorways of the converted barn offer fantastic views out over Teesdale, while the outdoor seating area is ideal for a little al fresco dining. The owners offer locally sourced organic produce wherever possible, as well as a varied brunch and lunch time menu. The restaurant itself is open for out of hours private parties. egglestonhall.co.uk Thorpe Farm bistro and coffee shop The newly converted bistro and coffee shop at Thorpe Farm Centre in North Yorkshire is the ideal place to pick up a coffee, a piece of homemade cake or an entire locally sourced meal. All meals are freshly prepared in the farmhouse kitchen and served throughout the day. On site you'll also find a walled garden and a heritage wood with six circular walks of varying length. If you like what you eat you'll also be able to pick up a wide range of goodies in the well stocked farm shop. thorpefarm.co.uk Café Bowes Café Bowes is a fantastic dining destination, whether you've come to visit the museum or simply enjoy the café itself. It is renowned for its homebaked cakes, breakfasts and lunch menu that utilise local produce wherever possible. Breakfast offers up all manner of local goodies while, if you're there for lunch, you shouldn't miss out on the Yorkshire Rarebit of Swaledale Old Peculiar cheese or the intriguing Teesdale 'Tongue in Cheek'. Check the online menu for a list of all local suppliers used. thebowesmuseum.org.uk The Garden Station Café A wonderful café offering honest and delicious home cooking, which the owners like to think of as 'eco-gastronomy'! Food is sourced and prepared with the utmost care, using local and organic ingredients and avoiding waste wherever possible. The Garden Station is part of Fairtrade Hadrian's Wall, with Fairtrade supplying not only the coffee, but also quinoa, beans and sugar for the cakes. The owners also buy from smaller local firms such as Bluebell Organics and Gilchester Farms. Favourites include home made chocolate brownie and soup served with locally made, organic bread. thegardenstation.co.uk Hartside Top Café A bustling café found right at the top of Hartside, offering wonderful views down over the Eden Valley and beyond. Very popular with passing cyclists, you can expect nothing but the best home cook meals using locally sourced ingredients. Contact Tel: 01434 381036. For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the North Pennines

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland Coast, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of B&Bs, hotels, self-catering and camping in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) on the northeast coast of England. The Northumberland Coast has a range of characterful accommodation options. Families might like to check out the adventure-packed caravan parks near Berwick-upon-Tweed which organise children’s workshops in making bug hotels, nature collages and cardboard dens. Heritage seekers can bed down in an old Presbyterian church with a pulpit that watches over those communing at breakfast. Ramblers and ornithologists should head straight to the north coast, where you can wake up to the dunes and salt marsh between the mainland and Lindisfarne and observe some of the 170 birds species that call this area home. Those who prefer a more relaxed feel could check out the wealth of traditional pubs that offer rooms as well as hearty portions of regional food. Whatever your taste, you’ll be well-catered for – and we’ve only included places that focus on reducing their impact on the environment, so that part of your decision is already taken care of. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Northumberland Coast: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay on the Northumberland Coast St Cuthbert's House, Northumberland, England Luxurious award-winning 5-star, 6 double bedroom B&B in a 200 year old former church in the village of Seahouses on the coast, and near the Cheviot Hills. Renovated with bags of character, includes superkingsize beds and great local food. stcuthbertshouse.com Fenham Farm, Northumberland, England Fenham Farm overlooks the dunes and salt marsh between the mainland and Lindisfarne, which marks the conclusion of the 62.5-mile St Cuthbert’s Way. Rooms are set away from the farmhouse in converted outbuildings. fenhamfarm.co.uk Market Cross Guest House, Northumberland, England Plumb in pretty Belford, this Georgian B&B takes dining as seriously as it does sleeping. Four rooms are bright and contemporary, breakfasts are award-winning (plenty of fish from the coast) and the walking and cycling are fantastic. marketcrossguesthouse.com Laverock Law Cottages, Northumberland, England Laverock Law, a clutch of 3 cottages and a shepherd's hut - all self catering and tucked away in 2 acres of woods in a tranquil area of Northumberland. An ideal place to relax by starlit campfires, explore the fantastic coast, castles and wildlife. laverocklawcottages.com Hunting Hall, Northumberland, England A small family farm near Holy Island, managed with a passion for the environment. There are two award winning, green, self-catering cottages, and a farm trail to help guests explore the beautiful countryside of North Northumberland. huntinghall.co.uk Beacon Hill Farm, Northumberland, England 15 well-equipped luxury cottages with fabulous facilities including a swimming pool, steam room and spa, as well as lovely gardens. If you can leave the comfort of the cottage, the Northumberland coast and Cheviot Hills are waiting to be explored. beaconhill.co.uk Woodhead Holiday Cottages, Northumberland, England Take time to relax in an area so wonderfully remote that on clear nights you will be amazed by the starry skies. Two beautifully-restored luxury cottages nestled between coast and countryside offer a wealth of great walks straight from the door. woodheadholidaycottages.co.uk Springhill Farm, Northumberland, England Ten cottages in converted farm buildings, a clutch of wooden wigwams, a bunkhouse sleeping 32 for family reunions or groups of friends, and a beautiful campsite. The coast is within touching distance, as are the area's historic sights. Fabulous. springhill-farm.co.uk Berwick Holiday Park, Northumberland, England This caravan park overlooks the North Sea on the highest cliffs in Northumberland; follow steep steps down to two white sand beaches and seek out sea creatures in the rock pools at low tide. Onsite, there’s a bowling green and sports court. haven.com/parks/northumberland/berwick/ Haggerston Castle Holiday Park, Northumberland, England This pretty woodland caravan park occupies an old castle estate. A pool, ropes course, pedalos in the lake and pony riding will keep the kids entertained and outside the park there are woodland trails, unspoilt beaches and ruined castles to explore. haven.com/parks/northumberland/haggerston-castle/ YHA Berwick, Northumberland, England The old granary, set in Berwick's historic quarter, has been given a total revamp – it now houses one of the YHA's most beautiful structures. There are 13 bedrooms, a fabulous café/bar, an art gallery, and music and comedy nights throughout the year. yha.org.uk Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel, Northumberland, England This hotel is perfect for exploring the wonders of the National Park, such as the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle itself and the beautifully long beach at Embleton Bay. You can choose to stay in elegant guest rooms or lovingly-converted cottage suites. dunstanburghcastlehotel.co.uk For more information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland Coast.

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland Coast, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of natural and cultural attractions - heritage, museums and gardens - on this glorious stretch of the coast of northeast England. The Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is an incredibly diverse area with many rare and distinctive species. If you have even the slightest interest in birds, you really can’t miss the Farne Islands, an archipelago lying a few miles off the coast at Seahouses that has been attracting ornithologists for decades. Time your visit well and you could see 1,000 grey seal pups, gannets exploding into the sea, Arctic terns dive-bombing visitors, jumplings (guillemot chicks) taking their first leap of faith away from the nest and 37,000 pairs of puffin, which skim away from the tour boats’ wake like clockwork toys. The coast has also attracted some interesting characters over the years – from cave-dwelling hermits to the flamboyant ‘Gay Delavals,’ notorious pranksters who hosted masquerade balls. Today, the resident Duchess of Northumberland is still shaping the landscape by creating the playful Alnwick Garden with its water sculptures, Poison Garden and wonderfully ramshackle treehouse restaurant. Read on for our guide to the most intriguing sites both for wildlife and heritage. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Northumberland Coast: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to visit on the Northumberland Coast Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland Coast The North Sea coast was once a volatile borderland, with Viking raids an ongoing threat from the seaward side and regular skirmishes between the Scots and the English, and Lindisfarne was particularly vulnerable. This 16th-century castle and former fort was built using stones from the priory on the highest point of the island. In 1901, publishing magnate Edward Hudson, who owned Country Life magazine, bought the castle and employed Sir Edwin Lutyens to refurbish it in the Arts and Crafts style, using natural materials to create a rustic, spartan space. Lutyen’s good friend Gertrude Jekyll designed the walled garden. Keep an eye out for the quirky wind indicator, sheds made from disused herring boats and the well-preserved lime kilns by the shore. nationaltrust.org.uk/lindisfarne-castle Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland Coast Built on a prominent dolerite outcrop on top of an ancient hillfort, Bamburgh Castle is a sight to behold. After a turbulent history of Viking raids, sieges and revolts, the castle was restored to its former glory by Victorian industrialist Lord Armstrong (who also built nearby Cragside) and today visitors can explore 14 public rooms and 2,000 artefacts, including an exhibition of Armstrong’s aviation artefacts in the laundry room. As you’d expect, over the years the castle has picked up its fair share of ghost stories. One legend tells of an old man sent by St Cuthbert to steal St Oswald’s Head; another of a beautiful step daughter turned into a fire-breathing dragon. The Pink Lady, a princess who threw herself from the battlements, is said to patrol the grounds along with Dr John Sharpe, who just wanders around keeping on eye on things. bamburghcastle.com Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland Coast Whether you set out from The Ship Inn at Low Newton or from Craster harbour, a ramble along the coast path to Dunstanburgh Castle is likely to be a highlight of your trip to the North Sea coast. The castle was built on the remains of an Iron Age hill fort between 1313-1322 just as relations between King Edward II and his most powerful baron, Earl Thomas of Lancaster, were becoming openly hostile. It soon became the focus of fierce fighting during the War of the Roses and changed hands five times. Today, the castle is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts – most notably Thomas Plantagenet, who was executed for treason in 1322. Apparently the bumbling executioner delivered 11 strokes before he finally decapitated Thomas, who is said to roam the ruins carrying his mangled head. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstanburgh-castle Aln Valley Railway, Northumberland Coast This standard gauge heritage railway runs for three miles between Alnwick and Alnmouth (Anglo-Saxon for the “farm on the river Aln”to the “mouth of the river Aln”). Beyond its appeal as a tourist attraction, it’s also an ambitious project to restore the branch line, which was originally constructed in 1850. The railway owns an impressive collection of vintage rolling stock from a 19th-century North Eastern Railway observation saloon to quirky contraptions such as the Muscleman (a self propelling vehicle used to lift and slew the track from side to side). For just £3.50 you can ride the line all day, or even drive the engine for a tenner. alnvalleyrailway.co.uk Alnwick Castle, Northumberland Coast Britain’s second largest inhabited castle has been home to the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for the past 700 years. Along the way, it has been host to some intriguing characters including a gunpowder plotter, decadent collectors, medieval England’s most celebrated knight and the cast of Downton Abbey. Costumed guides bring the history to life alongside fire-eating jesters, medieval minstrels, falconers, sword-wielding knights and wizard professors, who can help you brush up on your broomstick-riding skills. If you fancy a more refined day out, head to the castle’s lavish state rooms, inspired by the Italian Renaissance, where you can indulge in the work of Canaletto, Titian, Van Dyck, Turner, and Dobson or marvel at the priceless Cucci cabinets, originally created for Louis XIV of France. There are hidden owls and dragons in each room to stave off yawning younglings. alnwickcastle.com/ Ford and Etal Estate, Northumberland Coast Ford and Etal are two exceptionally pretty villages in the River Till valley between the Scottish border and the Cheviot Hills. For such a small estate, there’s plenty to do. Take a ride on the 15” gauge steam railway; explore a fully-restored corn mill powered that still makes stoneground, wholemeal flour; walk around the remains of a former colliery and ramble over Flodden Battlefield, the site of a particularly bloody conflict between the English and Scottish armies in 1513. A tempting network of footpaths, quiet lanes and bridleways spiral away from the estate. Don’t miss the Duddo Standing Stones, known locally as The Singing Stones after the strange whistling sound they make when the wind blows from a certain direction. ford-and-etal.co.uk/ Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland Coast This grand Georgian mansion was home to the flamboyant Delavals family, known as the ‘Gay Delavals’ due to their larger-than-life characters. Beyond the formal architecture, Captain Francis Blake Delaval and his eight sons and four daughters were notorious partygoers and pranksters. They staged theatrical productions and masquerade balls, hosted rope dancers and sack races and instigated their fare share of theatrical mischief. One time a guest awoke to find his room turned completely upside down with furniture fixed to the ceiling. Today, you can explore the rose garden, the grand stone stables and the immense Central Hall designed by architect Sir John Vanbrugh, who also put his name to Castle Howard and Blenheim Palace. nationaltrust.org.uk/seaton-delaval-hall The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland Coast Dreamt up by the Duchess of Northumberland with playfulness and wonder, Alnwick is surely one of the world’s most ambitious gardens. It is designed to tantalise each of your senses. The rose garden showcases 200 variations of English rose along with fragrant honeysuckle and clematis. With a series of water sculptures exploring the effects of physics on water, the Serpent’s Garden culminates in an interactive fountain that fills slowly until its jets spring to life. The Poison Garden curates over 100 deadly plants such as deadly nightshade, foxglove, strychnine and hemlock. Don’t miss the wonderfully ramshackle treehouse restaurant, with branches that grow through the floor and oversized hand-hewn seats over a roaring fire. alnwickgarden.com/ Howick Hall Gardens, Northumberland Coast Howick Hall unfurls its treasures throughout the year: the gardens open their gates in early February to a wealth of snowdrops. In March, it’s the turn of daffodils, while April and May bring the rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias into bloom, followed closely by the tulips. The formal garden and arboretum come into their own in June a living ark of 1,800 meticulously documented species collected on expeditions around the world. Meanwhile, the Long Walk tugs you gently away from the formality down to the churning North Sea. After a wander round the gardens, head to the Earl Grey Tea House, housed in the fabulous ballroom (open exclusively to visitors to the gardens), where the special blend of tea was first created for 1st Earl Grey in 1928, infused with bergamot to hide the taste of lime in the water at Howick. howickhallgardens.com/ Berwick Museum and Gallery, Northumberland Coast Uncover Berwick’s history in this interactive museum tucked away within the historic city barracks. Walk down the streets of old Berwick town, peeping inside homes and shops and stopping for a while at The Red Lion, one of 103 taverns in 1870. Along the way, you can learn how the land and sea has shaped the fortunes of the town, fostering industries ranging from agriculture, mining and fishing to tourism along with its role as a seaside resort and spa. The immense collection of ceramics, ancient Roman and Venetian glass, Japanese imari pottery and Ming porcelain was gifted to the museum by shipping magnate Sir William Burrell in the 1940s. museumsnorthumberland.org.uk/ RNLI Grace Darling Museum, Northumberland Coast On 7 September 1838, 22-year-old Grace Darling, a lighthouse keeper’s daughter, risked her life by rowing out to reach the wrecked SS Forfarshire in raging seas. The paddlesteamer had foundered on rocks in the Farne Islands and broken in half. Grace’s father decided it was too rough for the lifeboat to put out from Seahouses so they relied on their open coble (a traditional Northumbrian fishing boat), saving nine surviving members of the 62 crew and passengers. Grace returned a celebrity and was showered with honours. The museum was established in 1938 to commemorate her life. rnli.org/find-my-nearest/museums/grace-darling-museum Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips, Northumberland With Golden Gate you have a choice of five tours: Inner Farne (3hrs) with St Cuthbert’s tiny chapel hermitage; Staple Island to see the breeding seabird colonies (3hrs); an island cruise with a chance to observe the largest seal colony in the North Sea (1.5 hours) and an all day excursion pitched at ornithologists, photographers and local history enthusiasts. Exclusive to Golden Gate is a guided tour of Longstone Lighthouse, former home of local heroine Grace Darling, who at 22-years-old risked her life in rowing out to reach the wrecked SS Forfarshire in raging seas. farneislandsboattrips.co.uk/ Serenity Boat Tours, Northumberland Coast Serenity Boat Tours are well-suited to wildlife enthusiasts, with plenty of space for photography equipment, a 360º stable platform and an onboard naturalist. As well as the usual tours to Inner Farne, Staple Island and all-day birding trips, you can join a wildlife photography workshop with conservation photographer Alan Hewitt; take a whale watching tour or embark on a sunset cruise to take full advantage of the warm light of the ‘golden hour’. In winter, you can seek out seals, black guillemots and waders before heading along the coast to Holy Island in search of long-tailed ducks, scoters, grebes and divers. farneislandstours.co.uk/ Billy Shiel's Farne Islands Tours, Northumberland Coast The Shiel family have been guiding visitors around the Farne Islands since 1918, when the odd ornithologist would ask for a lift out on the lobster boats. Today, Billy Shiel Junior leads a fleet of seven passenger boats and a high speed RIB with a choice of 11 tours. Observe the cliff face colonies on Inner Farne (2.5 hours); observe 10,000 nesting pairs of puffins on Staple Island (2.5 hours); explore the priory, castle and winery on a Holy Island Cruise (4 hours) and keep an eye out for white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoise, minke whales and orcas on a Pelagic Cruise (4 hours). The most unusual tour is 3-hours trip in a traditional coble fishing boat, which lets you haul in lobster pots and practice hand line fishing for mackerel or pollack. farne-islands.com/ For more ideas for green holidays in the area, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland Coast

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland Coast, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of local produce, cafés, and pubs and restaurants along this glorious stretch of the northeast coast of England. The abundant North Sea brings to a wealth of fresh fish and seafood to this already diverse county, giving you ample opportunity to tuck into simple Northumbrian dishes such as kippers, brown bread and butter; crab stotties and fresh lobster (delivered to pubs and cafes daily by the bucketload). Head to fishing hubs such as Seahouses and Craster, where you can see producers using methods that date back 170 years to smoke their catch over oak sawdust. Or explore inland on the moorlands, where bees forage to produce distinctive heather honey. Read on and we’ll let you in on the best places to try border tarts (rich fruit tart encrusted in pastry) and singing hinnies (Northumbrian bannock, known as fatty cutties in Scotland); to sample Earl Grey tea in the manor house where it was invented; to kick back with a coffee inside an ornate Victorian railway station and to find classic northern pubs with cask beers and healthy portions of seafood dished up in sight of the North Sea. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to the Northumberland Coast: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat on the Northumberland Coast The Ship Inn, Northumberland There’s something eminently comforting about The Ship Inn, which is tucked between a row of fishermen's cottages in Low Newton. Perhaps it’s because it’s one of those rare British pubs that still feels like someone’s front room – albeit, at lunchtime, the busiest front room you’ve ever been in. Or maybe it’s the way the small handmade bar, with its makeshift shelves and rows of stem ginger sweets, feels rather like a 1970s village shop (in a good way). Our guess is that it’s down to the fresh and simple food. Tuck into Craster kippers with brown bread, butter and a slice of lemon; crab stotties; pork pie ploughman’s and fresh lobster (delivered daily by the bucketload). Wash your meal down with a pint of ale brewed by the hardworking mother and daughter team in their microbrewery. Lunch is served between 12pm-2.30pm, so make sure you turn up early to bagsy a table. shipinnnewton.co.uk Chain Bridge Honey Farm, Northumberland Coast This honey farm near Berwick-upon-Tweed is named after the Union Chain Bridge, built in 1820 to link England with Scotland over the River Tweed. The farm maintains 2,000 hives within a 40-mile radius. Early in the year, the bees feed on wild flowers and oil seed rape before being moved onto the moors to feast on the heather. Honey is a natural antiseptic, so as well as the edible “food for the gods”, the makers mix it with oats, tea tree and chamomile to create a range of ointments, balms, polishes and candles. Stop by the museum to watch the bees at work in a glass observation hive, explore the Tweed valley through panoramic murals and spread “liquid gold” on your crumpets in the double decker bus cafe. chainbridgehoney.com Alnwick Farmers’ Market, Northumberland Coast This monthly farmers’ and craft market, held on the last Sunday of every month (9am-2pm), has been attracting townsfolk for generations. Organisers encourage stall holders to sell well-priced ingredients which are grown, reared or made within a 50-mile radius and many producers are happy to chat about their work. If you’re self-catering it’s a great opportunity to pick up local fruit and vegetables, Northumbrian meat and fish as well as freshly baked bread and cakes. There are also regular markets each Saturday (9am-4pm) and Thursdays in April-December (9am-4pm). alnwickmarkets.co.uk Swallowfish, Northumberland Coast If you’re in Seahouses, it’s well worth seeking out this traditional smokery hidden above the harbour on South Street. The company has played an important part in the Seahouses fishing narrative for the past 170 years – in fact, it’s possible that smoked kippers were invented here. Using methods that go back generations, Swallowfish smoke their catch over oak sawdust without colourings or additives to let the natural flavour of the fish come through. Head to The Fishermen’s Kitchen for all manner of smoked and fresh fish, seasonal shellfish and homemade potted shrimp swallowfish.co.uk Doddington Ice Cream, Northumberland Doddington prize themselves on producing natural ice cream using simple ingredients and real “regional” flavours: Newcastle Brown Ale, Alnwick Rum Truffle, Heather Honey and Roman Britain (said to recreate flavours that would have been available to Roman Britons such as apple, cinnamon, cherry and heather honey). They source their ingredients from local food heroes: honeycomb from the Chain Bridge Honey Farm, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, who produce two types: Tweedside set flower honey and their famous heather honey; Alnwick Rum, a distinguished dark rum based on a 90-year-old recipe lost for 20 years; Pumphreys Coffee, a flavoursome roast with hints of caramel which has a history tracing back to 1750. doddingtondairy.co.uk The Barn at Beal, Northumberland Coast One of the main attractions of this coffee shop and restaurant, housed in a 19th-century cart shed next to Beal House, is the huge windows overlooking Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve: 3,500 hectares of sand dunes, tidal mudflats and salt marsh between the mainland and Holy Island. The Smith family work closely with Natural England to farm in harmony with resident species, improving the quality of hedgerows, providing links between fields and wetlands, establishing tussocky beetle banks through arable fields and creating grasslands to attract overwintering wildfowl. The menu reflects their focus with a thoughtful sourcing of ingredients: game from the farm, kippers smoked in Craster and beef reared on Lindisfarne. Their baker makes a celebrated variation on the Border Tart, a rich fruit tart encrusted in pastry, as well as ramblers’ snacks to give you a boost on walks. barnatbeal.com The Lavender Tea Rooms, Northumberland Ford and Etal are two exceptionally pretty villages surrounded by a tempting network of footpaths, quiet lanes and bridleways. This traditional tea room in Etal serves sandwiches, Ploughman’s lunches with local Doddingtons Cheese and Homemade lavender cake. For something a little different, try a Border tart (rich fruit tart encrusted in pastry) or singing hinnies (Northumbrian bannock, known as fatty cutties in Scotland) with jam and clotted cream. As well as a cafe, it is also the post office, a well-stocked general store and a tiny garden centre (open Mar-Oct). thelavendertearooms.org.uk Barter Books, Northumberland Coast Housed in an impressive Victorian railway station designed by William Bell in 1887, Barter Books is a treasure trove of second-hand literature, with a maze of bookshelves to lose yourself in – and a model railway with a train running merrily over the top. Snuggle in an armchair by the fire at the Station Buffet to eagerly begin reading whatever gems you've discovered over a cup of tea or coffee and maybe a bacon roll or a slab of cake. Intriguingly, the room the café occupies was seemingly forgotten about when the station closed until a mysterious hidden door was discovered almost 50 years later, and the idea for the Station Buffet was born. barterbooks.co.uk For more ideas for green holidays in the area, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Northumberland Coast

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland National Park, Jo Keeling picks out a selection of characterful places to stay in this glorious protected area in northeast England. The national park has a wide range of accommodation options from the characterful Old Repeater Station, which offers a sociable pit stop for walkers and cyclists making their way along the Wall, to a 14th-century fortified castle with spa baths, four-poster beds and 7ft-thick walls, and luxurious cottages complete with a gently-scented black granite steam room and a Jacuzzi with views of the Northumberland hills. A number of accommodation providers make the most of the county’s dark sky status: the spacious wooden cabins at Battlesteads are close to the hotel’s onsite observatory so you can easily pop back to the warmth of your room to watch the stars through your skylights; while the friendly folk at Wild Northumbrian can furnish you with blankets, binoculars and a picnic hamper and show you the constellations straight from your yurt or tipi. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Northumberland National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Northumberland National Park Fenham Farm, Northumberland, England Fenham Farm overlooks the dunes and salt marsh between the mainland and Lindisfarne, which marks the conclusion of the 62.5-mile St Cuthbert’s Way. Rooms are set away from the farmhouse in converted outbuildings. fenhamfarm.co.uk The Old Repeater Station, Northumberland, England This B&B is a great pit-stop halfway along Hadrian's Wall, and a bus can take you from right outside the door to nearby historic Roman Forts such as Vindolanda. There are five basic bedrooms offering simple accommodation in bunks or en-suite twins. hadrians-wall-bedandbreakfast.co.uk Southlands Farm Cottages, Northumberland, England Three award winning luxury self catering cottages surrounded by farmland in Northumberland, an area famed for its outstanding natural beauty. Great for visiting its breathtaking beaches and stunning nature reserves or unwinding in the great outdoors. southlandsfarmcottages.co.uk Hunting Hall, Northumberland, England A small family farm near Holy Island, managed with a passion for the environment. There are two award winning, green, self-catering cottages, and a farm trail to help guests explore the beautiful countryside of North Northumberland. huntinghall.co.uk Grindon Farm, Northumberland, England Tranquil, self-catering cottages in stunning Hadrian's Wall country, an ideal base for walking, cycling or simply taking some time out with nature. Impressive eco credentials including underfloor heating and rain water harvesting. grindonfarm.co.uk Laverock Law Cottages, Northumberland, England Laverock Law, a clutch of 3 cottages and a shepherd's hut - all self catering and tucked away in 2 acres of woods in a tranquil area of Northumberland. An ideal place to relax by starlit campfires, explore the fantastic coast, castles and wildlife. laverocklawcottages.com The Hytte, Northumberland, England Award-winning, grass-roofed timber cabin in the style of a Norwegian Mountain Lodge with large open plan living room, extensive private garden, and decked verandah with views of the open countryside. Unwind in the hot tub and sauna at sunset. thehytte.com Beacon Hill Farm, Northumberland, England 15 well-equipped luxury cottages with fabulous facilities including a swimming pool, steam room and spa, as well as lovely gardens. If you can leave the comfort of the cottage, the Northumberland coast and Cheviot Hills are waiting to be explored. beaconhill.co.uk Woodhead Holiday Cottages, Northumberland, England Take time to relax in an area so wonderfully remote that on clear nights you will be amazed by the starry skies. Two beautifully-restored luxury cottages nestled between coast and countryside offer a wealth of great walks straight from the door. woodheadholidaycottages.co.uk Battlesteads Hotel and Restaurant, Northumberland Relax by the cosy fireplace in winter and in the secret walled garden in summer at this family-run inn deep in Hadrian's Wall and Border Country. Tuck into locally sourced seasonal food and explore the surrounding castles and Roman ruins. battlesteads.com Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel, Northumberland, England This hotel is perfect for exploring the wonders of the National Park, such as the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle itself and the beautifully long beach at Embleton Bay. You can choose to stay in elegant guest rooms or lovingly-converted cottage suites. dunstanburghcastlehotel.co.uk Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland, England If you've always dreamed of staying in a Medieval castle, this hotel with four-poster beds, oak-panelled walls and open fire in the drawing room will not disappoint. It's perfect for exploring the woodlands and open meadows of the South Tyne valley. langleycastle.co.uk Wild Northumbrian Tipis & Yurts, Hexham A beautiful, special place to stay in Northumberland National Park. Stay in a Tipi or Yurt among wildflower meadows with views of fells and woodland in the peaceful, tranquil Tarset Valley. Learn bushcraft, pottery, falconry, go on walks & much more. wildnorthumbrian.co.uk Berwick Holiday Park, Northumberland, England This caravan park overlooks the North Sea on the highest cliffs in Northumberland; follow steep steps down to two white sand beaches and seek out sea creatures in the rock pools at low tide. Onsite, there’s a bowling green and sports court. haven.com/parks/northumberland/berwick Haggerston Castle Holiday Park, Northumberland, England This pretty woodland caravan park occupies an old castle estate. A pool, ropes course, pedalos in the lake and pony riding will keep the kids entertained and outside the park there are woodland trails, unspoilt beaches and ruined castles to explore. haven.com/parks/northumberland/haggerston-castle For more information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Northumberland National Park