Isle of Wight luxury bed and breakfast
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
The grounds are treated organically and wildlife is encouraged. Only native plants are used and the grounds are not manicured therefore watering is kept to a minimum. We have a green island gold award and a copy of our environmental policy is provided for each unit.
All glass, paper and food waste is recycled/composted and guests are encouraged to do the same. Water saving bags are fitted in the toilets to minimise water used for flushing and we use low energy bulbs where practical. We ask our guests to switch off lights when leaving their room.
We are gradually replacing our towels and bed linen with organic cotton – this has been produced in an environmentally, chemical free way and feels softer. We also use towels more than once where possible.
We invite guests to walk the footpaths and bridleways which cross the farm so they can appreciate the wildlife, farm animals, birds and local trees and plants. We encourage our guests to recycle and to support Gift to Nature.
The farm and garden are also organic and the farmland is extensively grazed, no fertiliser nor pesticides are used and nectar rich grasses have been planted in certain areas. The woodlands host bats, dormice and red squirrels which are European Protected Species.
Community
We use locally produced ingredients (including our own bacon, sausages & eggs) for our breakfasts – this reduces food miles and hence pollution and also supports local businesses.
There are several footpaths which cross our organic farmland and these are well used by locals, visitors and local school children who have visited the farm. A local part time seasonal cleaner is employed. Toiletries provided for guests are produced on the island from locally grown lavender, cakes are also locally made, all services used are local trades people.
We buy cakes from the local Country Market to welcome our guests.
Guests are encouraged to shop at Godshill Organics and also the weekly Farmers' Market - this is mentioned in the welcome pack.
Landscape
We are committed to preserving the diverse eco system which exists on the farm. We have wild orchids and many other wild flowers which remain undisturbed and are allowed to set seed. There are 7 ponds which host waterfowl and different varieties of damsel and dragon flies.
The farm is home to abundant wildlife including foxes, badgers, rabbits, dormice, red squirrels, toads, voles and a wide variety of birds including buzzards, sparrows, woodpeckers, blue tits, chaffinches, wagtails, heron, English partridge, owls, blackbirds, robins. Our philosophy is to live and let live and integrate our domestic farm animals with the natural environment.
The landscape can be experienced by following the many footpaths and bridleways that cross the farm - either on foot, cycle or horse. Guests can walk the llamas on the farm in a safe environment away from traffic and can also go into some of the fields to get closer to th animals - accompanied by Kathy or Mark.
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