THE OLD COACH HOUSE VISITOR CHARTER
We were members of the Green Tourism Scheme from 2010 until 2016. We were awarded a Gold Star in 2010 and successfully retained it until we left the scheme from choice last year. We have continued to develop and improve our green credentials. The following information gives you some idea about what we have done to achieve this and how you can help us run a successful green business during your stay with us.
Energy
What we have done: As we have refurbished The Old Coach House we have installed insulation and double glazing. Loft insulation exceeds the minimum required. In 2011 we installed twenty one solar PV panels and now generate a good proportion of our own electricity. Our electrical appliances are all at least A rated and we are very conscious of using appliances responsibly. All our light fittings use LED or energy saving bulbs. We installed a wood chip burner in July 2013 to reduce our oil consumption.
How you can help: Please switch off lights and the shower when you leave your room. Please do not leave windows open if the heating is on and turn down the radiators if you are too warm.
Transport
What we are doing: Public transport is limited in this part of mid Wales however we do try and keep our car journeys to a minimum, making sure that we do not undertake any unnecessary journeys. We have installed an electric charger so that guests with electric cars can recharge while they are here. There are good cycle routes in the area and we regularly cycle to our nearest shop for odd bits and pieces.
How can you help? It is possible to use public transport once in Machynlleth and with some organisation you can get to and from Machynlleth on the school bus. From there you can use buses or trains to travel around the area. Perhaps you would like to leave the car at the station and use the Cambrian rail line to visit places north or south of us on the coast.
Reduce, reuse, recycle
What we are doing: We have a comprehensive recycling system in Powys and of course all over Wales you will be charged for plastic bags. We recycle glass, plastic, paper and cans. Almost all our food waste is recycled in the compost, or eaten by the hens or cats. We buy all our cleaning, laundry and bathroom accessories in bulk, thereby reducing our use of plastic bottles.
How can you help? Powys county council has a strict recycling policy, please help us by using the bins provided to separate recyclable and non-recyclable material. There are bins in the cottage porch for any food waste. PLEASE DO NOT put food waste in the big black bins.
Be water wise
What we are doing: We are on mains water but do have a septic tank. We therefore have to be careful about the use of chemicals in the house. To this end we use non chemical products whenever possible.
How can you help? Do use our lovely Myddfai bathroom products. We are sure you will love their smell and the feel of them on your skin.
Natural environment
What we are doing: We are surrounded by beautiful scenery in this part of mid Wales. We enjoy our garden and have worked hard to create a wildlife friendly habitat and are lucky to share it with many different birds and insects.
The DyfiRiver supports a good range of wildlife and otters and kingfishers are some of the more special sights you may see there.
There are a number of RSPB centres and nature reserves in the area, please ask us for information on these. We have a good knowledge of the area and can advise you of places of interest to visit during your stay with us.
What you can do: If the weather is kind do spend time in the garden or by the river. Let us know what wildlife you have seen. We are not experts and are always delighted when guests spot something that is new to us.
Shop local
What we are doing: Both Machynlleth and Dolgellau support a range of independent shops, including excellent butchers, bakers and delicatessens. These stock good local produce and we use these as much as possible. I grow most of my own fruit and some vegetables. Our hens keep us well supplied with eggs. While you are with us you can sample homemade cakes, bread, jams and chutneys.
How can you help? Please support our local retailers by buying Welsh gifts. Why not take home some delicious Welsh cheeses, chocolates, honey or Penderyn whisky?
