Embracing Sustainability and Low Mileage Food at The Old New Inn
When taking over the business in 2018, one of the main focuses we wanted to move forward with was to be sustainable where possible, whether it be how we run the hotel, our food offering or even our suppliers. We’ve worked hard on this over the last few years and have managed to keep this plan in place through the dedication of our team and creating great relationships with food and beverage businesses throughout the Cotswolds and surrounding areas.
The Essence of Low Mileage Food
In an era where the environmental impact of our choices is more crucial than ever, The Old New Inn takes pride in its dedication to low mileage food. This concept is simple yet profoundly impactful—it emphasises the importance of sourcing ingredients locally to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. By prioritising food that travels fewer miles from farm to table, our restaurant not only supports local agriculture but also ensures the freshness and quality of its dishes.
We have a great relationship with our local suppliers, with our eggs being sources from a farm around the corner, our eggs and cheese are from farms around the corner, the bread we serve is baked fresh in a family run bakery based just a few miles away and our bar serves Hawkstone beer (previously Cotswolds Brewery), which is brewed at the edge of the village, and Cotswold Distillery spirits who are based in Shipston-on-stour.
Cultivating Sustainability
At the heart of The Old New Inn's sustainability efforts are its two thriving allotments. These gardens are a testament to our head gardeners hard work and incredible knowledge. By growing a significant portion of our own seasonal food, the restaurant can guarantee that the produce served to its guests is as fresh and nutritious as possible. From crisp vegetables to succulent fruits, the bounty of these allotments finds its way into the kitchen, where it is transformed into exquisite dishes that celebrate the flavours of the season.
The cultivation of these allotments is a labour of love, requiring dedication, patience, and a deep understanding of the land. It is a practice that not only reduces the restaurant's reliance on external suppliers but also fosters a closer connection between the chefs and the very ingredients they use to craft their culinary creations.
A Sweet Touch of Honey
Adding to our sustainable initiatives are two beehives, which produce honey that is nothing short of liquid gold. This honey, rich in flavour and bursting with the essence of the Cotswolds' flora, graces the breakfast tables each morning, offering guests a unique taste of the local landscape. The presence of these beehives is a nod to the importance of bees in our ecosystem, serving as a reminder of the critical role these pollinators play in our food supply.
The decision to maintain beehives goes beyond just producing honey; it reflects a broader commitment to biodiversity and environmental health. By supporting these tiny yet mighty creatures, The Old New Inn contributes to the pollination of plants, not only in our own gardens and allotment but in the surrounding area as well, bolstering the health and diversity of the local ecosystem.
A Model of Culinary Responsibility
The Old New Inn is more than just a place to dine; it is a model of how the hospitality industry can embrace sustainability and positively impact the environment. The integration of low mileage food, coupled with the cultivation of allotments and the maintenance of beehives, illustrates a holistic approach to sustainability that other establishments can look to for inspiration.
In the end, The Old New Inn isn't just serving meals; it's nurturing a community around the principles of sustainability, local sourcing, and environmental consciousness. By choosing to dine here, patrons are not only indulging in a culinary experience but also joining a movement that values the earth and its bounty.
To experience the confluence of tradition, taste, and sustainability, a visit to our Cotswold restaurant is a must. It's a place where every bite tells a story of care, community, and a commitment to a greener world.
If you want to dive straight in to our menus, you can do so here. And if you’ve made up your mind and you’re desperate to book a table, then please feel free to do so here.
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