The importance of choosing sustainable accommodation for winter travel

Winter is a time for cosy getaways, snowy adventures, and festive experiences, but it’s also a season that puts added pressure on the environment. Increased energy use for heating, high water demand, and waste generation can make winter travel a challenging time to be eco-friendly. One of the most impactful ways to reduce your environmental footprint during the winter months is by choosing sustainable accommodations. At Turing Locke, a design-led aparthotel nestled away in the Northwest of Cambridge’s shows great initiative in eco-friendly hospitality. With groundbreaking initiatives, Turing Locke exemplifies how choosing a sustainable hotel can enrich your travel experience and contribute to a better planet. 

Turing Locke Courtyard

Meeting Winter’s Energy Demands Sustainably 

Travelling in winter requires more energy to keep spaces warm and comfortable. Turing Locke tackles this challenge head-on through innovative, energy-efficient practices. 

  • Solar-Powered Energy: Turing Locke has covered 80% of its roof with solar panels, harnessing renewable energy even in winter’s low-light conditions. This not only supports on-site energy needs but feeds surplus energy back into the local grid, promoting a sustainable energy loop. 

  • Low-Carbon Heating Network: Through Eddington’s district heating network powered by a low-carbon combined heat and power (CHP) system, Turing Locke achieves high efficiency in heating. This eco-friendly heating solution ensures that the hotel’s winter energy demands are met sustainably, reducing carbon emissions and pollution. 

Why it Matters: By staying at Turing Locke, travellers support sustainable energy practices that reduce emissions and make winter travel more responsible without compromising warmth and comfort. 

Water Conservation: An Essential Winter Practice 

With increased demand for hot water in winter, sustainable water management is critical. Turing Locke’s water conservation practices are innovative. 

  • Rainwater Management Systems: Turing Locke participates in Eddington’s innovative water management program, utilizing sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) to capture, filter, and reuse rainwater for everyday needs, such as toilet flushing and garden irrigation. This method conserves thousands of litres of water daily, reducing the impact of high water use during winter. 

Why it Matters: Sustainable accommodations like Turing Locke minimize water waste, allowing guests to enjoy hot showers and comfortable facilities while protecting this vital resource. 

Waste Reduction through Smart Hospitality Practices 

Winter travel can often lead to increased waste, from disposable cups to packaging and heating-related products. Turing Locke’s sustainable approach is waste-conscious and resource-efficient. 

  • Minimizing Single-Use Products: Turing Locke reduces waste with practices like refillable dispensers for toiletries and recycled soap. The hotel also uses LED lighting and motion sensors to limit energy waste, highlighting a commitment to eco-conscious consumption. 

Why it Matters: Choosing Turing Locke means staying at a hotel that carefully manages waste to reduce environmental impact, encouraging a cleaner, more responsible form of hospitality. 

Promoting Eco-Friendly Winter Activities 

Sustainable accommodations often provide low-impact activities to help guests enjoy the winter season while respecting the environment. 

  • Eco-Friendly Transportation Options: Turing Locke provides multiple green transportation choices, including 20 electric vehicle charging stations, on-site guest bicycles, and an electric shuttle bus that connects guests to key locations around Cambridge such as the city centre and the rail station. These offerings promote car-free exploration and sustainable access to winter attractions. 

Why it Matters: Turing Locke’s green transportation options empower guests to explore sustainably, reducing emissions and encouraging mindful travel. 

100% Green Energy Commitment 

Winter’s increased energy demands can make it difficult for hotels to maintain a low environmental footprint, but Turing Locke stays true to its sustainable ethos with 100% renewable energy. 

  • Green Gas and Electricity: Operating exclusively on green gas and electricity, verified through Renewable Gas Guarantees of Origin (RGGOs) and Biomethane Certificates, Turing Locke displays an industry-leading commitment to sustainability. Additional verification by EcoArt, an Atos company, underscores this dedication. 

Why it Matters: Staying at Turing Locke means supporting a hotel that powers its operations with clean, renewable energy—making each winter stay environmentally responsible. 

Education and Inspiration for Responsible Travel 

Sustainable accommodation like Turing Locke offers more than eco-friendly amenities; they foster a culture of sustainability that inspires guests to make greener choices. 

  • Promoting Eco-Conscious Awareness: Turing Locke integrates sustainability into every part of the guest experience, encouraging guests to adopt eco-friendly habits during their stay. Through thoughtful design and visible sustainability practices, guests learn how their choices contribute to a greener planet. 

Why it Matters: Staying at Turing Locke motivates travellers to consider the environmental impact of their actions, helping to create a community of eco-conscious travellers who take these habits with them beyond their stay. 

Make This Winter a Season of Sustainable Choices 

As winter tourism continues to grow, so does the importance of considering the environmental impact of travel. Sustainable accommodation like Turing Locke provides a roadmap for eco-friendly hospitality, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. From renewable energy use and ethical dining to waste reduction and green transport options, Turing Locke sets a new standard for sustainable winter travel. 

This winter, consider choosing accommodations that prioritize the planet. By supporting hotels like Turing Locke, you’re investing in a travel experience that’s both enriching and responsible, helping to protect our planet’s resources and natural beauty. Embrace sustainable winter travel by choosing accommodations that lead by example—making every trip a testament to environmental responsibility and mindful enjoyment of the season. 



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