Sustainability is something we’re always thinking about here at Summerhill Farm.
We’re definitely not perfect and we know there’s always more we can learn and improve on, but from the beginning we wanted to make thoughtful choices where we could, especially ones that support local businesses, reduce waste and work alongside the countryside we’re lucky enough to call home.
Giving shipping containers a second life
One of the biggest parts of our sustainability journey started with the lodges themselves. Both of our lodges have been created using converted shipping containers, transforming something industrial and unused into cosy countryside stays.
Not only does it give materials a second life, but modular builds like these can also reduce waste compared to traditional building methods and have a smaller impact on the surrounding land during construction. And honestly, we love the contrast of something once built for ports and transport now being a peaceful place for people to slow down and switch off.
Using an air source heat pump
Our lodges are heated using an air source heat pump, which is a more energy efficient way of heating compared to traditional systems. Living in Scotland means keeping guests warm and cosy is pretty important, especially during stormy winter weekends, so having a system that helps reduce energy use while still keeping the lodges comfortable was something we really wanted to prioritise.
Switching to eco cleaning products
One small change we’ve made recently is moving over to more eco friendly cleaning products throughout the lodges. With holiday lets there’s obviously a lot of cleaning involved between guest stays, so switching to products that are kinder to the environment felt like an important step for us. The cleaning products we supply for guests are also eco products.
Sometimes sustainability is about the bigger decisions, but often it’s the smaller everyday choices that add up too.
Our septic treatment plant
As we’re based rurally on a working farm, we use a sewage treatment plant rather than a traditional septic tank.
Treatment plants clean wastewater to a much higher standard before it’s released back into the environment, making them a more environmentally responsible option for countryside properties like ours.
It’s not exactly the glamorous side of running holiday lodges, but it was an important investment for us and part of making sure we’re looking after the land around us as responsibly as possible..
Supporting local wherever we can
One thing that’s really important to us is supporting local and Scottish businesses wherever possible. Our shampoo, conditioner, hand wash, bug spray, diffusers and body wash are locally sourced, and many of the welcome gifts guests receive when they arrive are either locally produced or made in Scotland.
From local produce in breakfast baskets to small thoughtful touches from nearby businesses, we love being able to showcase brilliant Scottish products while also supporting other small businesses at the same time.
Sustainability is a journey
The biggest thing we’ve learnt is that sustainability isn’t about being perfect overnight. It’s about making better choices where you can, continuing to learn and being thoughtful about the impact your business has.
We’ve still got lots of ideas and plans for ways we’d love to improve in the future, but we’re proud that Summerhill Farm has been built around thoughtful choices, local support and a real appreciation for the countryside around us.