MileHacker Logo
Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Southwest England, England

Foundations of Responsible Tourism

Embrace practices that leave a positive footprint during your journey. This involves considering the environmental, cultural, and economic dimensions of your travel choices.

By being a mindful visitor, you help protect historical sites and support the communities you encounter.

Areas of Focus

  • Environmental conservation
  • Cultural respect
  • Economic contribution

Environmental Considerations

Protecting the delicate ecosystem and ancient landscape around Stonehenge rests on collective efforts.

World Heritage Site

The Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site is managed by English Heritage and the National Trust, dedicated to heritage conservation.

Waste Management

Recycling bins are available at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre and throughout Salisbury. Dispose of all litter responsibly in designated bins.

Water Conservation

Practice water conservation during your stay by taking shorter showers and turning off taps when not in use, contributing to resource preservation.

Carbon Footprint & Eco-Travel

Choose modes of travel and accommodation that reduce your environmental footprint.

Reducing Emissions

Choose direct flights when possible. Utilize public transport like trains and buses over private cars or taxis to lower your carbon emissions.

Offset Your Journey

Sustainable Choices

Seek accommodations with green certifications or stated environmental policies, like energy conservation and waste reduction.

Conscious Operators

  • Look for green-certified accommodations
  • Choose tour operators with sustainable practices
  • Support local sourcing by businesses
  • G Adventures for ethical tours

Additional Eco-Friendly Resources

Eco-Friendly Stays

Find accommodations with a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Explore Ecobnb

Reusable Travel Gear

Support companies focused on reducing waste with reusable products.

Visit Package Free Shop

Cultural Sensitivity

Preserving Heritage

English Heritage, Stonehenge's custodian, focuses on its preservation and responsible historical presentation. This includes protecting the physical monument and its historical context.

Ancient Significance

  • Stonehenge's historical context
  • Respect its ancient spiritual significance
  • Druids and Pagans still hold ceremonies

Respectful Conduct

Do not touch or climb on the stones at Stonehenge unless on a special, pre-arranged Stone Circle Access tour. The stones are fragile and protected.

Local Customs

  • Always stay on designated paths
  • Observe and adapt to local traditions
  • Mindful of other visitors

Ethical Practices

Mindful photography and respectful behavior at religious sites are important aspects of cultural sensitivity.

Photography Ethics

Be mindful of people's privacy; ask permission before photographing individuals directly. Avoid drones without prior permission.

Religious Site Etiquette

At Salisbury Cathedral, dress respectfully. Be mindful of ongoing services, maintain quiet, and silence mobile phones.

Local Interactions

Engage with locals with courtesy. Observe social norms, like queuing, to ensure pleasant interactions.

Deepen Your Experience

Respect for cultural norms and historical sites enriches your journey and protects these invaluable treasures.

Economic Impact

Support the local economy and confirm your tourism benefits the communities you visit.

Supporting Local Businesses

1

Dine Locally

Choose independent restaurants and pubs instead of large chains for meals.

2

Stay Local

Opt for local B&Bs or guesthouses for your accommodation.

3

Shop Locally

Purchase souvenirs and goods from local, independent shops.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Community-Based Tourism

  • While not explicitly defined, your direct spending benefits local livelihoods.
  • Choose local guides and services.
  • Participate in local cultural events or festivals.
  • Support community-led initiatives where possible.
  • Invest in local experiences over global chains.
  • GetYourGuide: Find local experiences to support.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Reputable Services

Confirm any services you use are licensed, reputable, and operate ethically.

Ethical Operations

Exploitation is not a major issue in UK tourism, but vigilance for ethical operation is always advised.

Charitable Giving

Consider supporting English Heritage through membership or donations to help maintain Stonehenge.

Economic Contributions

Your financial choices support local communities and the preservation of heritage.