Sustainable Edinburgh: Low and Zero Carbon Activities

At The Edinburgh Collection, we are committed to not only providing an exceptional guest experience but also ensuring that we help protect and preserve the beautiful city of Edinburgh for future generations.

One of the most impactful ways to do this is by encouraging our guests to take part in low or zero-carbon activities during their stay. By choosing eco-friendly options, you can reduce your carbon footprint, contribute to improving air quality, and help protect the environment, all while enjoying the very best that Edinburgh has to offer.

In partnership with local businesses and eco-conscious providers, we have curated a selection of green activities that are both sustainable and enjoyable. Here’s how you can explore Edinburgh while making a positive impact on the planet.

1. Explore the City on Two Wheels: Sustainable Bike Tours

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Edinburgh without leaving a carbon footprint. Our local partner, Edinburgh Bike Tours, offers guided bicycle tours that take you through the city’s most iconic sites, including Arthur’s Seat, the Royal Mile, and hidden green spaces like the Water of Leith. These tours are not only eco-friendly but also provide a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective.

• What’s Included: Bike rental, helmets, and a knowledgeable guide.
• Booking: Easily book your bike tour through our concierge team or directly on the Edinburgh Bike Tours website.
• Pick-Up/Delivery: Bikes can be delivered directly to your hotel for a hassle-free experience.

2. Walking Tours: Low-Carbon, High-Impact

For a truly immersive experience, walking tours allow you to explore Edinburgh’s rich history and culture while keeping your carbon footprint low. Choose from a range of eco-friendly walking tours, such as the Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour, or go further off the beaten path with Hidden Edinburgh Walking Tours, where you’ll discover secret alleys, ancient vaults, and lesser-known spots.

• What’s Included: Expert local guides, a sustainable approach to touring, and an enriching journey through Edinburgh’s history and culture.
• Booking: Tours can be arranged through our hotel concierge, who will recommend the best option based on your interests.
• Pick-Up/Delivery: The meeting point for walking tours is often conveniently located near your accommodation, reducing the need for transport.
• Special Offer: Enjoy a 5% discount on all walking tours when booked with The Edinburgh Collection.

3. Paddle the Waters: Kayaking and Canoeing

For those who want to connect with nature in a unique way, Edinburgh Kayak Hire offers environmentally friendly water sports experiences on the scenic Union Canal. Paddle through the peaceful waters, surrounded by stunning greenery and wildlife, while learning about the local environment and conservation efforts.

• What’s Included: Kayak or canoe hire, paddles, safety equipment, and a brief lesson on how to safely navigate the waters.
• Booking: Book through our concierge team, who will arrange everything from equipment hire to scheduled sessions.
• Pick-Up/Delivery: Equipment can be delivered to your hotel or arranged for pick-up at the canal.

4. Electric Vehicle Hire: Eco-Friendly Transportation

For those who want to explore the wider Edinburgh area with ease, hiring an electric vehicle (EV) is a fantastic way to minimize emissions. We’ve partnered with Electric Car Hire Edinburgh to offer guests access to a fleet of sustainable vehicles perfect for day trips outside the city, such as to the Pentland Hills or the seaside town of North Berwick.

• What’s Included: Full EV hire with charging points available across the city.
• Booking: Our concierge can help you book your EV rental and provide all the details about pick-up and drop-off locations.
• Pick-Up/Delivery: You can pick up your electric car from a central location or have it delivered directly to the hotel.

5. Zero-Waste, Eco-Friendly Dining

Eating sustainably doesn’t just have to be about what you eat—it can also be about how it’s sourced. Edinburgh offers a variety of zero-waste cafes and eco-conscious restaurants, where local ingredients are used to create delicious and environmentally friendly meals.

Top Recommendations:

• The Milkman: Enjoy locally sourced, sustainable dishes at this award-winning café.
• Harmonium: A plant-based restaurant focused on sustainability and local produce.
• Booking: Guests can ask our concierge for recommendations and book tables at these sustainable dining spots, many of which use renewable energy and focus on reducing food waste.

6. Local Eco-Market Experiences

For a more hands-on experience, explore Edinburgh’s sustainable markets, such as The Pitt Market or Stockbridge Market, where you can find local, organic produce, handmade goods, and unique craft items. These markets offer a chance to support local artisans while minimizing your environmental impact.

• What’s Included: Access to a variety of eco-friendly stalls selling everything from organic foods to sustainable fashion.
• Booking: Simply ask our concierge for directions to the markets, or pick up a map at the hotel to explore at your leisure.

Why Choose Low or Zero Carbon Activities?

By participating in these low-carbon experiences, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint, but you’re also helping Edinburgh become a greener, more sustainable city. Reducing carbon emissions, noise pollution, and waste not only helps protect the environment but also benefits the city’s biodiversity, ensuring that Edinburgh remains a vibrant, beautiful destination for future generations.

At The Edinburgh Collection, we are passionate about offering sustainable travel options, and we invite you to join us in supporting Edinburgh’s green initiatives. Whether you’re cycling through the city, walking its historic streets, or dining sustainably, every action counts.

Start Your Green Adventure with The Edinburgh Collection

Join us in exploring Edinburgh in a way that helps preserve its beauty. Book your sustainable activities today, and enjoy a stay with a positive impact on both you and the environment.