Green tourism projects pave the way for a more sustainable Cotswolds

Delivered by Cotswolds Tourism and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via West Oxfordshire District Council and Cotswold District Council, the initiatives aim to support local businesses, protect the Cotswolds as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and offer visitors new climate-friendly ways to enjoy the area. 

The Sustainability Champions project highlights over 20 inspirational local businesses that are leading the way to taking positive steps towards sustainability. The Champions range from large attractions and glamping sites to independent retailers, each on a unique sustainability journey but united by a shared commitment to protecting the environment while growing their business.  

Among the businesses in West Oxfordshire, are Heath Farm Holiday Cottages, known for tree planting, wildlife habitats and support for local crafts, and Blenheim Palace, which has a wide range of climate initiatives and aims to become carbon neutral by 2027.  

The Sustainability Champions project aims to inspire other businesses through case study films, events and online forums, with further sessions planned later this year. 

To bring everything together, Cotswolds Tourism has also recently launched a dedicated Eco-friendly Cotswolds section on www.cotswolds.com, making it easier than ever for visitors to find environmentally responsible places to stay, eat, drink, shop and explore. From low-impact lodgings to green attractions and eateries using local produce, this information is designed to help visitors make more conscious travel choices that benefit both the planet and the local economy. 

Complementing this is the Car-Free Cotswolds initiative, which is working with local businesses to make it easier for visitors to access and explore the region without a car. Over 20 participating businesses have joined the Good Journey network, enabling them to promote sustainable travel options and offer rewards for visitors who arrive by public transport, bike or on foot. The project also features a new collection of ‘car-free adventure’ itineraries for popular destinations including Burford, Woodstock and Kingham, supported by high-quality digital content to raise awareness of the ease and benefits of travelling more sustainably. 

Together, these three projects reflect a growing commitment to place sustainability at the centre of the Cotswolds visitor experience, helping to build a more resilient, inclusive and climate-conscious local economy. 

Cllr Duncan Enright, Executive Member for Economic Development, said: 

“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, it’s essential to protecting what makes the Cotswolds so special as an AONB, and we want a fairer, cleaner, greener Cotswolds for our visitors, as well as residents. These projects show how we can grow our visitor economy while supporting our communities, preserving our landscapes and offering a better experience for everyone.” 

Nat Taplin, Founder of Good Journey, said: 

“Like many amazing tourist destinations, the Cotswolds tend to get overrun with cars, especially during peak season. But with fast hourly trains from London and Oxford, and connecting buses to popular Cotswold villages, it’s really easy to visit the area car-free. 

“We’re delighted to be working with local tourism businesses to encourage visitors to leave their cars at home, relax on a train and enjoy the ride. Why not hire a bike or head out for a walk while you’re here? Escape the crowds, discover hidden gems and help to keep the Cotswolds a special place to visit.” 

For more information and to explore sustainable travel in the Cotswolds, visit www.cotswolds.com/eco-friendly.