Here at Higher Gills Farm we are committed to providing a good quality service whilst minimising the environmental impact of our activities.
We fully support the Forest of Bowland AONB Sustainable Tourism initiative.
- All our appliances are A rated.
- All internal bulbs are LED.
- All our external lights have motion sensors.
- Use Ecover and other green cleaning products and supply our guests with the same for their use during their stay.
- Purchase quality restored furniture.
- To aid our guests appreciation for the local countryside and to encourage sustainable activities we provide maps and guides for walkers and cyclists.
- All gardening is pesticide free and we compost our garden and vegetable waste.
- Our planting and garden care is aimed at promoting wildlife.
- Cardboard and newspaper is used for mulching or composted. Non compostable paper waste is taken for recycling (Plastic Bottles and Metal Cans).
- We encourage our guests to separate out waste that can be collected via Ribble Valley Borough Councils system.
- On this web site and in our accommodation we have provided information and ideas for low impact activities. and ways to get the most out of our beautiful surroundings.
- We will collect from our guests and take to our local recycling facility, batteries and other hazardous waste.
- Our web host Ionos 1&1 All of our data centres and offices in the UK and Germany run on electricity from renewable sources.
- Welcome Host approved.
Higher Gills Farm
We are helping to preserve the Teeswater sheep a rare breed by marketing its wool for knitting and crafts see our Teeswater Wool web site.
Some of our land is in Countryside Stewardship Scheme which recognises our efforts to manage it in a way that promotes wildlife and the natural beauty of the countryside.
Members of The Forest of Bowland Sustainable Tourism Network
Sustainable Tourism Visitor code
By following this code and the Countryside Code, you can help to look after the splendide countryside you have come to visit and keep it special for others and for your next visit.
1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
In the Forest of Bowland we take our recycling very seriously, as we hope you do at home! Say no to packaging where possible, especially plastic bags. You will find recycling banks in most main car parks across the area. In the Forest of Bowland we work hard to recycle all we can. Please help us by making use of the recycling system in your accommodation, and asking for one if you can't find it.
2. Reduce car traffic: walk, cycle or use public transport
Walking and cycling are great ways to see the area without adding to traffic. Use public transport where possible to travel to your start point, but try exploring near to where you are staying - there are some fantastic places to see right on your doorstep! Ask your accommodation provider for details.
3. Stay Local, Eat Local, Buy Local, See Local
Support local producers and services - this way your visit has a real benefit to the communities of the Forest of Bowland. And you get to see and taste the real quality that the Forest of Bowland offers. Visit farm shops, village stores, pubs, cafes, garden centres and craft shops. Much of our distinctive culture is evident in the community events which happen throughout the year and are well worth supporting. Support local environmental projects by contributing to the Bowland Tourism and Environment Fund.
4. Chill out - switch off….
Enjoy a fabulous, light touch holiday - switch off lights and dripping taps; use the voluntary laundry card scheme where you see it, so that only towels that really need washing are laundered; every single effort helps protect and enhance our beautiful environment. It takes a moment and it's all worth it!
5. Follow the Countryside Code: respect - protect - enjoy.
The Countryside Code reminds visitors to protect plants and animals; take litter away; leave gates and property as you find them; keep dogs under close control; consider other people and users when visiting the countryside.
