Green days

Looking for a romantic destination for your post-wedding getaway that's big on style and kind to the planet too?

With environmental awareness on the rise, honeymooners are increasingly looking for eco-friendly options. The Green House Hotel in Bournemouth is leading the way, providing newlyweds with a 'green' option which doesn't compromise on luxury or quality.

The hotel, recently voted one of the most eco-friendly hotels in the world, partnered with Count On Me, a Dorset-based organisation committed to cutting carbon, to work out the footprint of different honeymoon destinations, taking into consideration varying factors like air miles, honeymoon length, excursions and food consumed.

Research found that honeymooning in Thailand, with a stop in Bangkok and internal flights to different destinations, could equate to using a massive 65.5 tonnes of carbon; compared to The Green House Hotel which used only 0.5 tonnes.

The hotel is self-sufficient and carbon-neutral, generating its own electricity on site and producing energy from solar panels. General manager Olivia O'Sullivan said, "When we opened in 2010, we had a vision to create the most sustainable and eco-friendly hotel in the UK. The values and ethos of the hotel reflect my own personal values and as a team we consider the ethical value of everything we do."

Not only a luxury boutique bolthole, the 32-room Grade II Victorian Villa is an eco-friendly wedding venue too. Nestled between Bournemouth's golden beaches and the picturesque New Forest, it boasts private events rooms, beautiful gardens, and a two-rosette award-winning restaurant.

(Wedding reception image: Mark Stickland)