Hadrian's Wall Fairtrade group was started in 2009 during Fairtrade fortnight. The aim was to achieve Fairtrade registration for the Wall area (approx. 10 miles either side of the Wall) by Fairtrade fortnight 2010. This was an ambitious task, but with the co-ordination of some 9 local authorities and various other national and local bodies, it was achieved.
Hadrian's Wall Fairtrade area now boasts some 3 WORLD FIRSTS:
The first World Heritage Area to become a Fairtrade area - in the world
The first area in the world that spans two countries (England & Scotland)
The first area in the world to completely encompass National Trails.
Establishments offering at least two Fairtrade items can add 'Ask for Fairtrade here' to their advertisements and in a survey in 2008, 23% of people looking for Guest House or B & B accommodation looked for Fairtrade.
Join the Hadrian's Wall Fairtrade campaign. Go to www.fairtradehadrianswall.co.uk and sign up - it's free.
Many of the accommodation providers at The Heart of Hadrian's Wall have 'Walkers are Welcome', 'Cyclist are Welcome' or Fairtrade status and several have Green Tourism Awards. Check the accommodation pages for details.
Green Tourism
The Battlesteads Hotel is proud to be the greenest hotel in Northumberland. Of the 173 hotels across the county, it is the only one with a carbon-neutral heating system, which serves the entire hotel and they hold a Gold Award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme. The extensive gardens with two polytunnels provide fresh fruit and vegetables for the kitchen throughout the year and locally sourced, natural and organic toiletries are provided in each of the rooms.
Chollerton Old Church Cottages are the proud holders of a Green Tourism Gold Award and they aim to do as much as possible to lessen the impact on the environment and to contribute to the local community and economy. They encourage the use of public transport in their area, including the AD122 Hadrian's Wall Bus and also have information on local bicycle hire companies. In their garden, they minimize the use of chemicals and actively encourage wildlife and birds with their selection of plants and bird nesting boxes. They use environmentally friendly cleaning products in their cottages and for the laundry and also actively encourage their guests to recycle.
The Hytte is a self catering cottage with a difference - it is a Norwegian style mountain lodge with a grass roof. They too have been awarded a Green Tourism Gold Award for the consideration they give to the environment. They reduce their environmental impact by recycling as much as possible, minimise energy use/loss and deal with bathroom waste in a sustainable manner. In addition, all cleaning products used are natural and biodegradable. full details can be found on their website. The grounds around The Hytte provide a haven for birds and wildlife and there are walks and cycle rides to be enjoyed in the surrounding countryside.
Hadrian's Holidays at Greenhead is another Bed & Breakfast who take the environment seriously and have been awarded a Green Tourism Award for their use of Organic, Fairtrade and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, including freshly made bread from Featherstone Farmhouse Pantry, which is served with breakfast.
Hall Barns Bed & Breakfast have gained a Green Tourism Silver Award for their efforts in helping the local environment. They are situated on a working farm which offers bird watching, fishing, walking and cycling.
Carraw Bed & Breakfast situated just south of Hadrian's Wall near Housesteads Fort is another excellent establishment with sustainability at their heart They are committed to providing a good quality service whilst minimising the environmental impact of their activities.
Walkers and Cyclists Welcome
Many of the accommodation providers at The Heart of Hadrian's Wall have 'Walkers Welcome' and 'Cyclist Welcome' Accreditation. They provide additional facilities, information and services which are valuable if you are walking and cycling in the area.
Check accommodation listings for details.