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Whether you’re craving a treehouse escape or an off-grid cabin surrounded by nature, eco-friendly stays are one of the best ways to experience the UK responsibly. With more travellers choosing sustainability in 2025, there’s never been a better time to explore by train and stay in places that care for the planet.
South Western Railway’s routes put you in easy reach of the South West’s most beautiful and green-conscious retreats from the New Forest to the edge of Dartmoor. We’ve partnered with CoolStays.com to bring you a curated selection of stays that combine comfort, charm, and low-impact living.
Why choose an Eco-Stay?
Eco-stays minimise your carbon footprint, support local communities, and help preserve the landscapes you’ve come to enjoy. Whether it’s solar-powered cabins, restored farm buildings, or properties that work in harmony with wildlife, sustainable accommodation helps protect the South West’s natural beauty.
Pair that with train travel, one of the lowest carbon ways to get around, and you’re on track for a greener getaway.
What makes a stay Eco-Friendly?
Below are some of the attributes considered essential for stays to be eco-friendly.
- Renewable energy (solar, biomass or wind)
- Renewable energy (solar, biomass or wind)
- Locally sourced materials and furnishings
- Eco-certified cleaning products and waste management
- Off-grid or low-energy systems
- Minimal or plastic-free toiletries
- Water-saving features (rainwater harvesting, compost loos)
- Nature-friendly locations or rewilding efforts
Top Eco-Stays in the South West
1. Wild Escapes Treehouses, Hampshire
Nearest Station: Winchester (then 15-minute taxi ride)
Green Credentials: Solar power, rainwater harvesting, organic bedding, off-grid design.
Perched among 1,000 acres of rewilded farmland, Wild Escapes offers luxurious timber treehouses featuring private outdoor baths and showers, wood-burning stoves, and stunning views across the River Test. Each hideaway provides organic beds and no WiFi or TV, for a truly unplugged experience. The treehouses are pet-friendly with up to two dogs allowed per stay (flat-rate pet fee applies), and perfect for families, though children must be supervised near the raised decks and wood-burners.
2. Devon Dens, Off Grid Cabins
Nearest Station: Exeter St Davids then 25 minute bus link to Okehampton via Stagecoach 6A Bus
Green Credentials: Solar power, dry compost toilets, low-impact woodland management.
Nestled on the edge of Dartmoor, Devon Dens’ two rustic cabins offer an unplugged, off-grid experience with wood-fired outdoor bathtubs, a Finnish-style sauna (optional extra), and cosy interiors. With no WiFi or TV, it’s the perfect space for digital detoxing. Families and couples will love the tranquil woodland setting, and it’s dog-friendly too – up to two well-behaved pups are welcome.
4. Hideaway at Holland’s Farmhouse, Dorset
Nearest Station: Dorchester South (then 20-minute taxi ride)
Green Credentials: Biomass boiler, solar panels, natural insulation, local produce welcome pack
A stylish barn conversion near the Jurassic Coast, ideal for couples or small families looking to unwind in comfort. Hideaway at Holland’s features include a wood-fired hot tub, log burner, and private courtyard garden. Guests are welcomed with a local produce hamper. Dog-friendly, with one-night stays available for last-minute getaways.
Check out our guide to the Jurassic Coast for recommendations on where to go and what to see while you’re in the area.
5. Lymore Orchard Tiny House, New Forest
Nearest Station: Lymington Town (then 10 minute walk)
Green Credentials: Compact design, timber frame, orchard rewilding, low-energy living
This charming tiny home sits in a rewilded orchard with views of the Isle of Wight. Enjoy your own private outdoor bath, open fire pit, and a compact but cosy timber-clad interior. The property is proudly dog-friendly – with wash stations and dog treats provided – and ideal for walkers, cyclists, or couples wanting a low-impact countryside break.
Discover our 48-hour guide to the Isle of Wight and the New Forest for things to do and top sights to see while you’re close by.
Save more with SWR Rewards
Travelling with South Western Railway doesn’t just help lower your carbon footprint – it can also help you save money. With SWR Rewards, you’ll find exclusive discounts on everything from eco-friendly accommodation to local attractions, dining, shopping, and experiences.
Perks include:
- 2FOR1 entry at selected attractions
- Discounts on food & drink, including some local cafes and farm shops
- Offers on bike hire, wellbeing activities and more across the South West
- It's free to sign up – simply book your train tickets on the SWR website or app, then visit swr-rewards.com to access your personalised offers.
Plan your next eco-friendly stay with SWR
Cosy pub trips are even better when you don’t have to worry about driving, parking or winter roads. Taking the train makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed festive outing, whether you’re heading into London or exploring the South West.
We have plenty of cheap train tickets, from advance tickets to Group Save. If you want extra flexibility in case plans change, our Sunday Out and Semi-Flex return tickets are the ideal choice. Don’t forget to check your eligibility for Railcards and discounts to save even more on your journey.
You can avail of special offers and deals on attractions in London and the South West with SWR Rewards. Check what’s on offer in your destination.
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