Practical, planet-friendly tips for mindful holidays and sustainable travel – plus how Walnut Barn Estate is leading the way in eco-friendly stays.
Going on holiday shouldn’t mean leaving your values behind. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer restorative stay, it’s easier than ever to travel in a way that treads lightly on the planet, without compromising on comfort, joy, or experience.
At Walnut Barn Estate in Somerset, sustainability isn’t just a box to tick, it’s a core part of how the site operates. From EV charging to solar panels and heat-pump powered hot tubs, here’s how you can embrace sustainable travel – and how we’re doing our part too.
1. Choose Sustainable Travel That’s Lighter on the Planet
The biggest part of your holiday carbon footprint is often how you get there. Whenever possible, consider travelling by train, bike, or electric vehicle. Walnut Barn Estate makes it easy to go car-free with walking routes direct from the estate, access to the South West Coast Path and Mendip Way, and connections to Glastonbury, Brean Down and local villages.
EV drivers can charge their cars on-site using our dedicated electric vehicle charging points, so you can recharge while you relax.
2. Stay Somewhere That Shares Your Green Values
Where you stay matters. Our estate has been thoughtfully designed with sustainability in mind so you can reduce your environmental impact while having an unforgettable holiday experience. Many of our energy systems are powered by solar panels and air-source heat pumps, helping us stay off fossil fuels.
We’ve invested in eco-conscious facilities like:
- Heat-pump powered hot tubs
- A sauna and soon-to-arrive cold plunge pool
- Russian cold bucket showers in The Old Dairy
- LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances throughout
- Refillable and plastic-free bathroom amenities
The entire site is managed with sustainability in mind — but comfort, wellbeing, and beauty are never compromised.
3. Switch Off, Slow Down
Holidays are a chance to reconnect with nature, loved ones, and ourselves. Walnut Barn’s layout helps you truly switch off. Our spacious estate is divided across luxury holiday cottages and lodges, a quirky yurt complete with a private bathroom and hot tub, a shepherd’s hut with koi pond and viewing platform, and two larger group properties, giving guests both togetherness and privacy.
Our properties offer great Wi-Fi, but with limited signal in some areas of the Estate, the site encourages a natural digital detox. There’s no rule to put your phone down but when the stars are out, the firepit is glowing, and you’re deep in conversation or wrapped in a blanket with a book, most guests find they don’t miss the scroll.
For more on why holiday cottages make the perfect digital detox destination, read our blog here.
4. Support Local, Leave a Positive Impact
Being a conscious traveller isn’t just about what you avoid, it’s also about what you support. Staying at Walnut Barn means immersing yourself in the local area. From farm shops and independent cafés to local guides and walking routes, there are plenty of ways to make your visit count.
Some local low-impact activities we love:
- Bird watching at the Brean Down bird sanctuary (don’t forget your binoculars!)
- Walking to Glastonbury Tor straight from the estate
- Cycling part of the South West Coast Path from Uphill to Brean
- Hiking the scenic Mendip Way trail
- Visiting local markets and sustainable businesses in nearby towns
5. Respect the Land You’re Visiting
We invite all our guests to take the Walnut Barn Sustainability Pledge: “I will respect and protect nature during my stay.”
That might mean:
- Leaving no trace on countryside walks
- Conserving energy and water during your stay
- Using recycling and composting facilities
- Embracing our mindful approach to sound — whether you’re here to celebrate or recharge, the layout and soundproofed buildings like BOB ensure everyone can enjoy their experience, their way.
And finally, just by choosing a sustainable holiday, you’re already making a difference. Small changes scale up. When places like Walnut Barn thrive, it proves that eco-conscious hospitality is not only possible, it’s the future of travel.
Ready to Plan Your Eco-Friendly Escape?
If you’re looking for a nature-first stay that doesn’t skimp on comfort or experience, Walnut Barn Estate is ready to welcome you. Whether you’re after a restorative yoga retreat, a group gathering, or just some quiet time in the fresh Somerset air, we offer the space, serenity and sustainability to match your intentions.
Let your next break reflect your values and leave the countryside even better than you found it.