Low Ploughlands: Combining Luxury and Sustainability for Self-Catering Accommodation

12.2.25

Nestled in the idyllic Eden Valley, Low Ploughlands Farm offers luxury self-catering accommodation, ideal for large family gatherings and serene getaways. Harriet and Ed Hewetson have designed and converted three properties - two barns and one cottage - with care, offering beautiful views, and sustainability at the core. A part of this ethos involves working with Out of Eden to create a memorable guest experience while keeping their environmental impact as low as possible.

A Sustainable Start: Ground Source Heating and Solar Power

Low Ploughlands was designed with sustainable hospitality in mind. From the start, owners Harriet and Ed have invested in renewable energy to provide a responsible holiday property that prioritises the environment as much as it does guest comfort.

 

"Ever since we started our holiday accommodation at Low Ploughlands nearly 10 years ago, we have tried to be as sustainable as we can. When we first converted Brockram and Keld Barns, we opted for ground source heating. This has since been supplemented with solar panels, car chargers and wildflower banks." – Harriet

Installing 54 array solar panels in 2022, these reduce the amount of electric the couple have to import and when needed, they’ve ensured the remaining electricity supply is guaranteed to be from green energy sources. For guests with electric vehicles looking to explore the area by car, they can use one of the three 7kW EV chargers for a fee.

 

The wildflower banks work as both a natural flood barrier and a haven for wildlife. Attracting pollinators including bees, moths and butterflies in the summer as well as goldfinches that enjoy the seeds in the late summer and early autumn, the banks are sure to delight visitors of all species!

These thoughtful installations showcase a dedication to environmentally-friendly self-catering that minimizes fossil fuel use and encourages guests to enjoy the pristine Cumbrian surroundings responsibly. For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, Low Ploughlands offers a luxury holiday let option that supports sustainable choices without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Out of Eden: Enhancing the Guest Experience Sustainably

While large-scale efforts like heating and energy draw attention, the smaller, daily choices are equally impactful. So close we’re practically neighbours, Low Ploughlands are able to minimize transportation emissions by collecting items directly from the Out of Eden Showroom, where our friendly team are always ready to assist.

"We are so lucky to have Out of Eden on our doorstep; this has meant that by sourcing many products from them I am reducing the miles these products travel. I make sure I pick up items from the showroom so that it is not transported to a depot and then back to me. The staff are always friendly and helpful. They can easily find the products I use and discuss new products" - Harriet

The Out of Eden Showroom is located in Kirkby Stephen and offers local and passing customers the opportunity to see our entire product range up close. Our knowledgeable team are on hand to talk you through the range, offer a personal shopper service or simply answer any queries you may have. Not just for browsing, you can place an order whilst you’re there or pick up any order you’ve placed online or over the phone for Click & Collect. With our warehouse just next door, we can quickly have your order ready so you can focus on the next important job with the essential products you need.

Sustainable Choices: Refills, Reusables, and the Bright Earth Range

At Low Ploughlands, sustainability extends to the smallest details. From reusable cleaning cloths to durable microfibre cloths and tea towels, everything is washed and reused repeatedly to keep waste to a minimum.

"Over the years we have used many products from Out of Eden. For sustainability, we use 5l refills for soaps, toilet cleaner, and multi-surface cleaner. Some of our small refillable soap bottles have lasted the duration of the 10 years, which means a lot of plastic prevented from going to landfill." - Harriet

Harriet & Ed use Eden Toiletries in their properties, an exclusive collection from Out of Eden. Scented with Green Tea and Lemon Zest, this vibrant yet simple range is fresh, invigorating and has wide appeal. Made in the UK using only vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, it’s also dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. The 300ml bottles of Shampoo & Body Wash, Hand Wash, Conditioner and Hand & Body Lotion are made with at least 30% Prevented Ocean Plastic TM and are refillable when using a 5L bulk container of the same product. Using a compatible 30ml Hand Pump means every last drop is used up and when empty, the 5L container can be easily recycled too.

 

Known for its eco-friendly, biodegradable formulas and effective cleaning results, the Bright Earth range of cleaning products aligns perfectly with Low Ploughlands’ commitment to minimizing its environmental impact.

"In the last few years, it has been great to see Out of Eden produce their own 'Bright Earth' range, which we enjoy using. The latest surprise was they have done away with the plastic wrapping on the recycled toilet rolls." - Harriet

For those looking to offer their guests toilet paper that’s completely plastic-free, accommodation providers can follow in Harriet & Ed’s footsteps and try the new Extra Long Recycled Toilet Roll.  Each roll provides a generous 3 meters of premium, quilted toilet tissue. Crafted from 100% recycled paper, this sustainably sourced 3-ply toilet paper is also boxed in cardboard and sealed with paper tape.

A Unique Approach to Guest Waste Management

Managing waste is a priority at Low Ploughlands. With no commercial recycling in the local area, Ed & Harriet encourage guests to sort their waste during their stay, making it easier for the property to recycle as much as possible without placing a burden on visitors.

"Going on holiday can produce a lot of extra waste, especially when our barns are set up for large family gatherings. The bins can soon be full, so I encourage guests to sort the waste in order for me to recycle as much as possible."

“We try and place clear signs to allow our guests to help us be more sustainable. I never want to push people into recycling because they’re here to relax, but many people are only too pleased to do their bit” - Harriet

It would be easy for the couple to draw a line at creating such an efficient waste management system, but the local eco-system is considered at every point at Low Ploughlands as even their recycling storage features a green roof to attract local butterflies and bees!

Future-Focused: Plans for Reduced Grid Dependency

Looking ahead, Low Ploughlands has ambitious plans to further decrease its environmental footprint. As technology and sustainable practices continue to evolve, the property remains enthusiastic about discovering new ways to lessen its environmental impact and enhance the guest experience.

"Our future plans are to reduce our dependency on the electricity grid. We are looking into a small wind turbine and batteries to supplement our solar panels when there is no Cumbrian sun. Ultimately, we want to continue to keep our impact to a minimum and are always excited to see what Out of Eden produces to help us in this quest." - Harriet

The Perfect Getaway: Comfort, Care, and Consciousness

Guests of Low Ploughlands can relax and enjoy the stunning beauty of Cumbria, knowing that their stay is supporting sustainable practices. By choosing quality hospitality supplies from Out of Eden and investing in renewable energy and waste reduction, Low Ploughlands sets a new standard for sustainable holiday lets. For those seeking a luxury self-catering holiday let that cares for the environment as much as for guest experience, Low Ploughlands offers an exceptional choice in rural accommodation.

To experience innovative and sustainable hospitality firsthand, visit Low Ploughlands at https://lowploughlands.co.uk and follow them on social media for the latest updates. 

Are you an accommodation provider with a story to tell? Contact us at sales@outofeden.co.uk

  

All images of Low Ploughlands are property of Low Ploughlands, Cumbria.