Thanks to popular documentaries, high-profile protests and extensive news-media coverage, the environment is at the top of everyone’s agenda. We’re all looking for those small ways we can reduce our carbon footprint and make our activities greener –whether it’s the food we eat, the clothes we wear, or the places we visit. Here’s a look at the most eco-friendly places to visit in the UK…
Eco-Friendly Travel
Travelling in the UK is inherently green, as it doesn’t necessitate the sort of emissions that come with jetting off to a faraway country. But within the UK, certain tourist destinations are inherently more environmentally friendly than others.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, like many Scottish cities, has taken great strides in the battle against pollution and climate change. There are charging points for electric vehicles everywhere, and there’s widespread shunning of single-use plastics. Recycling rates across the city are amongst the highest in the UK, making Edinburgh a must-visit for environmentally-conscious tourists.
Brighton
Venture down to the south coast of England, and you’ll find a similar commitment to all things environmental in the form of Brighton. There are more vegan restaurants available per capita here than in anywhere else in the country, and the air quality is stellar thanks to a constant breeze from the sea. You can catch a direct train to Brighton from Gatwick, and a range of other locations in London.
Bristol
Just a few hundred miles northwest you’ll find Bristol, which shares a similar commitment to environmental values. Where Bristol leads the pack is recycling, but there are also plenty of cycle routes available to those who’d like to take advantage of the local sights without resorting to petrol-power.
York
According to a recent study, York is the fourth most eco-friendly city in the United Kingdom, and the first in England. There’s an emphasis on sustainability that goes right into everyone’s shopping habits, with ‘fast-fashion’ items being shunned in favour of the stuff you can wear again and again for years.
Oxford
Not only is Oxford home to some stunning architecture and history, it’s also a great place to enjoy the countryside. There’s a historic food market to browse, canals to explore, and a series of pubs and restaurants along the river. Most people cycle around Oxford, which makes it a very eco-friendly place to visit.
Merthyr Tydfil
This little town in south wales is a perfect staging ground for cyclists who’d like to explore the country’s high points. It’s filled with cosy little restaurants, and according to the ‘Areas for a Beautiful Future’ it’s the second most eco-friendly town in Wales (with the top spot being taken by Bridgend).
*This is a collaborative post written with Amy, a talented contributor.
