Since reopening under new ownership just before the Covid pandemic, The Falcon Inn has become a national example of how pubs can thrive while prioritising sustainability. From installing an allotment to joining Green Tourism and achieving national recognition for its environmental leadership, this Northamptonshire pub has proven that eco-conscious values can go hand-in-hand with community and business success.
Over the last five years, The Falcon Inn has implemented a wide range of sustainability initiatives:
- Covid Response:
- Converted into a Village Shop providing essentials to local residents unable to travel.
- Sustainable Growing and Food Supply:
- Built a pub allotment to grow herbs and seasonal produce.
- Installed flower beds to attract pollinators and water butts to irrigate the garden sustainably.
- Eliminated single-use plastic packaging on fresh produce.
- Offers reduced-price meals using allotment-grown ingredients.
- Eco-Operations:
- Switched to LED lighting and eco-friendly cleaning products.
- Monitors gas, water and electricity usage to reduce emissions and save costs.
- Awards and Accreditations:
- Joined the Green Tourism programme, achieving Silver status within 2.5 years.
- Recognised by the British Institute of Innkeeping as a Sustainability Champion.
- Future Projects:
- Planning Hedgehog Highways and replanting village green spaces with bee-friendly plants.
Locals have embraced the pub’s environmental values, which have helped draw visitors from across the region. During the pandemic, The Falcon Inn served as a literal lifeline, and today it stands as a social and ecological asset for the village.
The Falcon Inn has reduced food miles, packaging waste, and utility consumption, while inspiring other businesses to take similar steps. Its fresh produce supports affordable meals, and its gardening work has improved biodiversity and beautified the village.
The Falcon Inn proves that sustainable practice isn’t just good for the planet – it’s good for people and pubs too. Through thoughtful initiatives, national recognition and plans for continued growth, it stands as a leading example of sustainable hospitality at its best.
