Sustainable Staycays
Now more than ever before, it’s important that we stay conscious of our carbon footprints not just while at home, but when holidaying too.
From new-builds run on solar power to eco-centred lodges with zero-waste kitchens and accommodation that conserves natural resources, new places to stay across Kent are ever-adapting to the sustainable practices we need to adopt in order to keep our planet safe. To promote responsible tourism, support local communities and overall reduce your environmental impact, here are some of Kent’s most green getaways – perfect for a sustainable staycation.
The Red Cabin, Rolvenden
A charming cabin that overlooks one of Kent’s most serene stretches of countryside, The Red Cabin is a Scandinavian-inspired escape fit for the eco-conscious. With a private deck, chlorine-free hot tub and sauna, guests can revel in the spa-like experience of a stay at the cabin. Situated within a Dark Sky area, The Red Cabin is an excellent spot to stargaze, fitted with a wood-burner to keep guests warm through every hour of the night.
The Red Cabin is completely powered off-the-grid and uses energy-efficient appliances as well as eco cleaning products throughout the property. Combined with eco-classical solar panels, composted food waste and responsibly sourced firewood, these features make The Red Cabin one of Kent’s most sustainable places to stay. To be fully immersed in the natural landscape of Rolvenden, guests can head to Bewl Reservoir just a stone’s throw away, which is ideal for fishing, exploring or simply enjoying a delicious picnic with a view.
Field View Eco Glamping Pods, Frasers of Egerton, Ashford
An award-winning private estate known for its low-impact, low-carbon philosophy, Frasers of Egerton offer two tiny house retreats within their 300-acre eco-estate. With unspoiled views of the night skies, calves napping underneath the sun and horses grazing in the paddocks, Field View 1 overlooks a grassland meadow with unspoiled, panoramic views of the Kentish countryside. Following ecologically sustainable principles, the accommodation boasts split air conditioning, a kitchenette and eco-friendly bathroom facilities.
Just 30 minutes from Maidstone’s town centre, Field View 1 is a diminutive and cosy 221-square-foot house with an even smaller carbon footprint, making it a guilt-free place to stay for any nature-lovers looking to take a break. On the estate, guests can capture photos of the local wildlife and revel in the peace and serenity, or choose to explore nearby attractions including Mote Park, Godinton House, The Big Cat Sanctuary and Doddington Place Gardens.
Bumble Barn, Canterbury
A self-catering eco lodge with room for groups of up to six, Canterbury’s Bumble Barn is a unique and guilt-free green holiday home that utilises a range of creative solutions for water, waste and energy use. The barn features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it perfect for small groups of friends to relish some rest and relaxation, and, just a ten-minute car journey from Canterbury’s city centre, the barn makes a perfect base for those looking to explore local landmarks.
As far as eco credentials go, the Bumble Barn boasts a heat recovery ventilation system, solar panels and a living roof which is home to Kent’s biodiverse wildlife. Nestled within the pastures of a working farm, the barn is a tubular cabin that benefits from the brightest rays of sunlight and panoramic views of the tree-edged fields beyond. Despite its sleek design and conscience for all things eco-friendly, the Bumble Barn is packed with high-tech amenities such as a 4K smart TV and integrated Blu-Ray player, through which guests can enjoy endless entertainment during their sustainable staycation.
Oast Barn Cottage, nr Faversham
A beautiful 300-year-old cottage that’s been lovingly restored into a romantic getaway for two, the Oast Barn Cottage is a great choice for a cosy, eco-centred escape this March. With original brick flooring and a wood-burning stove, this property has kept the charm of centuries past while adapting to all the luxuries of modern living. In the sitting room, a smart TV with a library of films and board games awaits. In the spacious bathroom, guests will find a large roll-top bath fit for relaxation, though the stunning garden views are the best thing to soak up at sunset.
During a stay at the cottage, guests can enjoy sustainable and ethical plastic-free products from vegan scented soaps to bamboo toilet paper and a small, organic welcome hamper. Close to the market town of Faversham and village of Charing, the Oast Barn Cottage is surrounded by walks and trails perfect for cyclists and seasoned hikers alike. Complimentary with a stay is a free pass to the nearby Belmont House and Gardens, which is well worth a visit for those wanting to complete their eco-friendly escape with picturesque views of the beloved estate and its array of annual and perennial plant life.
A newly renovated stable building with energy efficient appliances, stylish decor and at-home comforts, the North Stable is nestled within a peaceful stretch of Kentish countryside. Upon arrival, guests of the North Stable will be greeted with a welcome pack of entirely local produce, as well as access to bicycles for exploring nearby trails. The ideal retreat for small families or groups of friends to recharge in nature, the stable offers tranquil earthy colours, cosy textiles and reclaimed wood fixtures that keep it warm and inviting.
The North Stable’s open-plan living, dining and kitchen area is a sociable space with a large, comfy sofa and four-seater dining table for guests to gather at meal times. Using the complimentary welcome pack, guests can enjoy treats such as hot chocolate, biscuits, jam on toast and local orange juice. Best of all, the stable’s French doors open onto a private garden and patio terrace area that’s perfect for enjoying sunny evenings in the countryside breeze.
Free Range Glamping, Bore Place Farm, Chiddingstone
A 500-acre regeneratively managed historic estate, Bore Place focuses on land management and organic farming in an effort to support the local community in living happy, fulfilling and sustainable lives. Beyond educational programmes for school children and young people, marked trails to explore, and a programme of public events, Bore Place also offers holiday stays in their bespoke yurts and shepherd’s huts.
At the Daisy Shepherd’s Hut, guests can revel in views across the valley and wake up refreshed on the doorstep of remote living. With a wood burning stove, king-sized double bed, en-suite and nearby wet rooms with hot outdoor showers, guests can sleep under the stars while keeping the comforts of modern living. Suitable for small families and couples, Bore Place has a host of events from bird safaris to biofluorescent night walks for guests to enjoy during their eco-friendly holiday.
Waterfront, Romney Marsh
An expansive beach house with direct access to the sandy stretches of Romney Marsh’s coastline, Waterfront is the perfect eco-friendly staycation spot for larger families or groups of friends. With a black burnt timber facade, this Nordic/Japanese-inspired holiday home offers light-filled spaces, luxury touches and the latest tech-led living innovations. From the lower terrace’s garden escape to the master bedroom’s sea-facing deck, Waterfront offers panoramic views of the Dungeness coastline.
Featuring four bedrooms, four en-suites and a family bathroom, the property is ideal for larger families or groups of friends looking to celebrate any occasion – from birthdays to hen-dos. Guests can indulge in movie nights within the property’s state-of-the-art cinema room, or cook grand meals in the sandstone-clad kitchen. Best of all, Waterfront has a high eco-friendly rating, with amenities such as an EV charger, solar panels and an eco-conscious ground source heat pump.
Woodpecker Lodge, Hayne Barn Estate, Hythe
Providing luxury eco lodges all year round in Kent, Hayne Barne Estate is a hidden gem for unique staycations in the county. Set on a private estate with rustic charm and utter tranquility, their eco lodges are great for couples looking to unwind from the stresses of everyday life and reacquaint themselves with nature.
At the Woodpecker Lodge just two minutes from the Saxon Shore public footpath, guests will be met by calming and neutral decor, a comfortable king-size bed, en-suite bathroom with a rain shower and a fully equipped kitchenette. Best of all at the Woodpecker Lodge is its very own private veranda featuring a wood-fired eco-tub, BBQ and outdoor seating for couples to enjoy the stunning countryside views. A place where adventure begins, guests can venture to the nearby Brockhill Country Park, Saltwood Castle or Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve during a stay at the Woodpecker Lodge.
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