More Information about Environmentally Friendly practices at Palace Farm, Kent

During the renovation of these typical Kent farm buildings we have saved and reused much of original building materials to be environmentally friendly. Our fencing is made from locally grown Kent coppiced chestnut and when it needs replacing the old fence can be burned on the wood burner to help heat the hostel.

We encourage all of our guests to recycle glass, plastic, metal and paper. To make it easy we have recycling bins in the eco hostel and in the camp site. We have researched wind generation and the use of a small solar PV panel to light the covered patio area and other outside seating areas. Although we do have electric lights to most of these areas 230 volt electrics needs an electrician to install, with a 12 or 24 volt system we will be able to put in lights ourselves and explore different lighting moods.

Palace Farm is a working farm growing Wheat, grass to be made into hay and silage, we have our own fully free range chickens and when we can find them enjoy some wonderful eggs with bright orange yolks, these may be available to our guests in season.

In past years the farm had been meticulously manicured, weed killers were used liberally between trees and under hedgerows. In orchards closely mown grass separated bare earth strips in which only the fruit trees were allowed to grow. Following a visit that we requested from a conservation consultant we reverted to leaving the weeds under hedges unsprayed this has greatly increased the stock of natural insect predators, we seldom use sprays for pest control now. These efforts have made a huge difference to the wildlife on the farm.  there is one big drawback – rabbits everywhere!

Find out more about Green Tourism on the  GT website