Tiptoe Retreat - Our Green Commitment

At Tiptoe Retreat, sustainability is more than just a value, it’s part of our everyday way of life. Nestled on Tiptoe Farm, which proudly holds LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) accreditation, we’re rooted in practices that work in harmony with nature, farming 600 acres of organic and regeneratively farmed land.

Our peaceful setting along the River Till - designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC), comes with a responsibility we take seriously. We’re committed to protecting and enhancing this special landscape through thoughtful stewardship and continued learning.

From the products we source to the energy we use and the land we care for, we’re always looking for ways to tread more lightly.

Energy

At Tiptoe Retreat, we’re proud to generate a significant portion of our electricity through solar energy. Our farm hosts a 50kW solar panel array, which powers the main office and supports operations across the site, including Tiptoe Retreat and supply to Brock & Howlet.

Each of our stays is fitted with thoughtful, energy-efficient systems:

  • Orchard Cottage, Brock & Howlet feature air source heat pumps, offering a low-carbon alternative to traditional heating.
  • Border View Cottage runs on an A-rated electric boiler, which is 100% efficient. Plans to add an additional solar array for Border View cottage.

Water

All of our properties are supplied with fresh, clean water straight from our on-site borehole. This natural water source is both safe and sustainable, helping us reduce our reliance on mains water - which is often heavily treated and energy-intensive.

Using a borehole ensures our guests enjoy pure water with a much smaller environmental footprint.

Local products

We’re passionate about supporting small, local businesses, and sharing their amazing products with our guests.
  • Homegrown timber has been used through the cabins & cottage.
  • Brock – External cladding is homegrown Douglas fir, with Tiptoe internal Ash cladding.
  • Coffee table and shelves are made by local joiner with Tiptoe Ash. The decking is Tiptoe pine.
  • Howlet – Oak coffee table & shelves made by skilled local joiner using Tiptoe timber. The decking is Tiptoe pine.
  • Border view & Orchard Cottage – Tiptoe Ash timber cladding in the bedrooms.
  • Our breakfast hampers are filled with food sourced from within a 20-mile radius.
  • Toiletries are supplied by Laura Thomas which we refill. Laura’s products are 100% natural. Based at North Berwick.
  • Coffee & Kin – compostable coffee pods, company based in Alnwick.
Every item is chosen not only for quality, but for its positive environmental impact and local roots.

Sedum Roof on Cabin Howlet

Cabin Howlet is topped with a beautiful sedum roof, a living layer of low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants that blends naturally into the surrounding landscape. As well as looking lovely year-round, the sedum roof offers a range of eco-friendly benefits:

  • Improved insulation – helping regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy use
  • Rainwater absorption – reducing runoff and easing pressure on local drainage
  • Biodiversity support – providing habitat for pollinators and other small wildlife

This green roof is one of the many ways we’re designing our spaces to work in harmony with nature, quietly adding to the beauty and sustainability of Tiptoe Retreat.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

We clean all our cabins with biodegradable, non-toxic products that are kind to the environment and safe for wildlife. By avoiding harsh chemicals, we protect the River Till’s delicate ecosystem and ensure your stay is both fresh and planet-friendly.