Sustainable tourism

Sustainable tourism

More than 9 million people now visit the National Forest each year. Together with our partners and tourism businesses our ambition is to grow the sector sustainably, to provide accessible and inclusive experiences for all, and to ensure people leave with a greater connection to nature inspired by the National Forest. 

Why support sustainable tourism?

Embracing sustainable tourism in the National Forest isn't just about creating woodlands to explore - it's about ensuring that the tourism businesses that operate here have good sustainable practices. By supporting sustainable tourism, we are helping to set a standard that aims to support our environment, create inclusive spaces and empowers local communities and businesses to thrive in harmony with nature. We want to help create unforgettable experiences while safeguarding the future. 

Available advice 

Our team is always happy to discuss ideas for potential sustainable tourism projects in the National Forest. 

Working with partners we have produced a design guide for sustainable tourism accommodation development to support landowners, operators, investors and developers. The guide sets out a rationale for encouraging new and retrofitted tourist accommodation development that will help to create a distinctive National Forest character and sense of place, and that can contribute to a net zero carbon future.

If you are already providing tourist accommodation or are interested in developing tourist accommodation in future, sign up to our Accelerator Programme to receive tailored advice and support from our team of specialist advisors.

Sign up

Have questions?

If you're not sure yet whether you can apply for our grants or are simply looking for some advice, then feel free to get in touch.

Get in touch
Sustainable Tourism Accommodation Design Guide

We have produced a design guide for sustainable tourism accommodation development that is targeted at landowners, operators, investors and developers. The guide sets out a rationale for encouraging new and retrofitted tourist accommodation development that will help to create a distinctive National Forest character and sense of place, and that can contribute to a net zero carbon future.

Download the guide
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National Forest Small Grants

We believe we can cultivate change, one project at a time. Some projects may not easily fit into our existing grant schemes but are still bringing about positive change. We've created a small grants fund to help support inspiring projects and ideas that engage communities and visitors and help to grow sustainable businesses in the Forest. 

View small grants
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Find out more about how we're supporting the economy and growing tourism in the National Forest. 

Growing

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Let's transform this place

If you would like to speak to one of our expert advisors or arrange a call for them to visit you, then get in touch through our grant enquiry form.

Apply for a grant

More ways to help

Plant trees

If you're an individual who would like to plant trees, then why not join us at one of our tree planting events or dedicate a tree or grove. 

Become a corporate partner

If you are a business outside the National Forest boundary but would still like to contribute to growing a greener future, then consider becoming a corporate partner.