Mette, Cotswolds Concierge: I’m passionate about our planet’s future and I believe living sustainably is no longer a choice, but a necessity. From the global scale down to our own homes here in the Cotswolds, every conscious decision we make impacts the world around us. That’s why I hold such admiration for the team at Thornbury Castle. Their comprehensive commitment to sustainability, from their thriving kitchen garden to their meticulous waste reduction and recycling efforts, is truly inspiring.

My stay there last year was not only a luxurious escape but a lesson in how even historic establishments can embrace modern, eco-conscious practices. The culinary experiences, enriched by the garden’s fresh produce, were fabulous, and knowing that every dish was prepared with such respect for the environment made them all the more enjoyable. We all have a responsibility to tread lightly on this earth, and Thornbury Castle exemplifies how that can be done with both elegance and integrity.

Read about ‘Our unforgettable stay at Thornbury Castle‘ here.

Luxury with a conscience ∙ Thornbury Castle’s commitment to sustainability

Thornbury Castle, a five-star deluxe Relais and Chateaux Tudor castle in the south of the Cotswolds, offers an unforgettable experience to all of their guests, and always with a focus on sustainability, homegrown vegetables, locally sourced ingredients, and inclusive dining options. This iconic hotel’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is evident at all levels.

Sustainability in action

Thornbury Castle is dedicated to minimising its environmental impact through a variety of initiatives. They sustainably develop and protect their grounds and gardens, grow herbs and vegetables for use in their restaurants, employ a no-dig method of gardening to protect soil structures and create compost from food and coffee waste. The chefs prioritise reducing food miles by buying local produce whenever possible, taking into account seasonality and quality.

Waste reduction and recycling

The castle also focuses on reducing waste and supporting recycling, with measures such as compacting paper and cardboard on-site, recycling glass, and using specialist contractors for cooking oil removal. Their bar is plastic-free, including no plastic straws.

From garden to plate

Guests can explore the kitchen garden, wildflower meadow, and other unique gardens which host an array of flowers and botanicals, some dating back to the Tudor era. The castle’s restaurant uses produce grown in their own gardens, offering dishes to suit all tastes. This commitment to fresh, local ingredients ensures a delightful culinary experience.  

Vegetable garden from our ‘Unforgettable Stay at Thornbury Castle‘.

Inclusive dining

The chefs at this popular Cotswold hotel restaurant cater to a variety of dietary needs, offering vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free options and striving to create menus that are inclusive for all guests. The restaurant has received awards for its fine food, including 3 AA Rosettes for the quality of food as well as 4 red stars for quality of service. Guests can choose from a range of menus, including an a la carte menu featuring British-inspired seasonal dishes and a six-course tasting menu.