Sustainable Tourism in the Heart of Devon
The countryside of the Heart of Devon is of outstanding beauty with many Sites of Specific Scientific Interest and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty including the World Heritage Jurassic Coast.
This culturally and historically important area is rich in ancient traditions, and has a unique unspoilt character that we want to keep for future generations to enjoy. Sustainable tourism is an important way to conserve the very special character of the Heart of Devon by working in harmony with the surroundings. There are many ways that you can help us to achieve this.
Do you really need to make that car journey? Think about alternative ways of transport. The Heart of Devon is easily accessible with excellent coach, rail, and air links from many major towns and cities across the United Kingdom, and most hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses will willingly pick you up and take you to your holiday destination.
When you are driving it is hard to really look at the beauties of the landscape, so once you have arrived, try travelling by public transport on scenic routes, or get out into the countryside on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. The whole area is honeycombed with a network of way-marked trails, cycle tracks, and coastal paths passing through stunning scenery, allowing you plenty of opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Many local tourist attractions such as National Trust properties offer discounts to visitors arriving without a car, and the local Tourist Information Centres can also provide information on car free days out. Don't forget too that by buying local crafts or delicious Devon food and drink you are giving valuable support to the local economy.
The South West of England now has more Green Tourism Business Scheme Award winning businesses than anywhere else in England, including a number of visitor attractions and other tourism businesses in the Heart of Devon in recognition of their strong commitment to good environmental practice. Visit www.green-business.co.uk for more information.
Green Tourism Business Scheme Gold Award
Coombe Farm Trust, Tiverton
Devon Eco Holidays, Honiton
Hembury Court, Honiton
Higher Wiscombe, Colyton
Jurys Inn, Exeter
Larkbeare Grange, Exeter
Long Chimney Farm, Sidmouth
Mazzard Farm, Ottery St Mary
Silversprings, Exeter
Green Tourism Business Scheme Silver Award
Best Western Tiverton Hotel, Tiverton
Boswell Farm Cottages, Sidmouth
Combe House Hotel, Honiton
Crealy Great Adventure Park, Exeter
Globe Hotel, Topsham
Hedgehog Corner, Axminster
Highdown Organic Farm, Exeter
Seaton Tramway, Seaton
The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
The Miniature Pony Centre, Dartmoor
The Salty Monk, Sidmouth
Green Tourism Business Scheme Bronze Award
ABode Exeter, Royal Clarence Hotel, Exeter
Colour Wheel Plants, Honiton
Dawlish Tourist Information Centre
Newton Abbot Tourist Information Centre
Teignmouth Tourist Information Centre
Green Tourism Business Scheme Awaiting Grading
Powderham Castle, Nr Exeter
