At Westnewton we aim to live sustainably. We are very fortunate to live and work in the Northumberland National Park in some of the most beautiful countryside in England.  Our aim is to maintain and conserve our landscape for the enjoyment of this and future generations.

We have taken the following measures to reduce environmental impact and incorporate energy savings in our business.

Transport

As you can see we do suffer occasionally from congestion on the roads up at Westnewton.

There is information on local transport in the guest folders including information on our well supported, although only weekly, Kirknewton bus.

We welcome cyclists and the cottage has secure sheds for cycle storage. 

Details of local cycle hire businesses are provided together with maps and guides.

Walkers are catered for with drying racks, maps and guides.

We are members of the Visit England Cyclists Welcome, Walkers Welcome and Pets Welcome schemes with the appropriate facilities being provided for all. 

Recycling

There is a box in the cottage for recyclable material – paper, cardboard, tins, plastic bottles and glass.

Toilet paper and kitchen roll supplied is made from recycled material.

All paper used in the office is of a recycled type and all waste paper is recycled or composted.

Correspondence is by email and telephone rather than hard copy wherever possible.

Printer cartridges are recycled.

Used stamps are donated to charity.

Energy

Our cottage is insulated to a high standard and the windows are double glazed.

Radiators have thermostatic valves.

Wood for the fire and stove is grown and harvested on the Estate and woods replanted when felled

Laundry is washed on a short cycle and line dried.

Appliances are minimum ‘A’ rated where possible to reduce energy consumption.

Showers are fitted with “Eco” shower heads to minimise water use.

We have a private water supply on the Estate which is provided by springs on Westnewton Hill and stored in a large tank. The water in the cottages passes through a UV filter which ensures the quality is suitable for drinking. This is a resource of which we must take particular care, especially in times of low rainfall. It is important that taps, both inside and outside, are properly turned off as a small leak, over time can give rise to a shortage for all. 

Suppliers

All maintenance work on the Estate is undertaken by local tradesmen, with whom we have a good relationship, allowing any emergency repairs to be carried out swiftly and efficiently.  By using local craftsmen we are able to help sustain the local economy.

The welcome pack provided contains locally produced honey, cheese and milk together with Fair Trade tea and coffee, all of which are purchased in Wooler.

Environment

The cottage has a no smoking policy.

Cleaning materials used by our cleaners, and those provided for guests, are environmentally friendly brands.

Replacement white goods, laundry and other supplies are purchased online to avoid car journeys. 

How can you help us? 

Please help us in our effort to make less of an impact on our surroundings by following the guidelines below:

Use our recycling facilities and read the “Waste” section of the guest folder in the cottage.

Please try and use as little water as possible.

Only turn heat up higher if necessary.

Please check that all windows and internal doors are closed before you leave for the day. The cottage will be much cosier for your return.

Respect the Country Code and dispose of litter carefully.

Please buy local food and services while you are here. This supports our local community and reduces food miles. If you wish goods from a large supermarket Asda, Sainsburys and Tesco all deliver to Westnewton.

Try one of our suggestions for a car free day at Westnewton.
 

Finally

The most important point of all, enjoy your holiday in Northumberland and do visit us again.