🌿 Sustainability at Cedar Hollow

Biodiversity & Woodland Stewardship

Our 12-acre woodland is a living, breathing ecosystem - and we’re helping it thrive.

• Annual tree planting of native species to sequester carbon and support resilience
• Log piles, deadwood, and wildflower zones to foster microhabitats
• Minimal light pollution to protect nocturnal species like bats and owls
• Mixed orchard & woodland zones attract butterflies, fungi, deer, and birds

We also host bat walks and other nature-based activities to help guests engage with the land.

Bees, Bonbons & Our Orchard

Pollinators are at the heart of Cedar Hollow.

• We keep six active hives and are proud members of the British Beekeepers Association
• Our orchard of fruit and nut trees offers the ideal environment for bees and birds
• Guests receive a jar of our honey and handmade honey infused chocolate bonbons - a sweet gift from the land

Circular Economy & Sustainable Design

We design with stories and sustainability in mind.

• Reclaimed wood, antique furniture, and salvaged stone feature across the estate
• Even the beams were rescued from the church where C.S. Lewis is buried
• Upcycling and reuse shape every decision, creating rustic beauty with minimal impact

Energy & Light

From heat pumps to fairy lights, every watt counts.

• Air Source Heat Pumps use 3x less energy than traditional systems
• Low-energy lighting and appliances across all properties
• Eco-friendly heating options, including efficient log burners
• Timers on external lights ensure nothing stays on unnecessarily
• Smart insulation to minimise heat loss and maximise comfort

Water & Waste

We care for every drop and every scrap.

• Recycling bins and clear guidance in every space
• Refillable cleaning and toiletry products
• Reusable cloths, minimal disposables, and natural materials
• Transitioning to well water to reduce mains usage
• Composting on site for food and garden waste

Low-Impact Travel

We make it easy to arrive gently and explore slowly.

• Free EV charging for 1st hour
• Bicycles available to rent
• Walks and cycle routes right from your doorstep
• Our travel guide helps guests choose car-free experiences

Community & Place-Based Impact

Sustainability means sharing.

• We open our land for refugees, volunteers, and community events
• Hosts for Oxford Art Week and the Congenital Anaemia Network
• Bat walks, orchard tours, and even a Spring Litter Pick Crepe Exchange!

We believe that private land can - and should - be used for the common good.

Our Climate Commitment

We don’t just talk about impact - we track it.

• We measure and offset our carbon footprint annually through Carbon Footprint Ltd
• Read our full Climate Impact Plan
• View our Carbon Offset Report

Planning & Landscape Stewardship

At Cedar Hollow Oxford, our relationship with the land is guided not only by care, but by responsibility.

Every structure across the estate has been thoughtfully designed and developed in full accordance with local planning policy. We work closely with planning authorities to ensure that what we create enhances, rather than intrudes upon, the surrounding landscape.

This approach allows us to protect the long-term integrity of the woodland while offering guests a truly immersive experience.

We are grateful to have worked with Mark Doodes Planning, whose guidance has helped shape a scheme that is both imaginative and carefully grounded in its setting.