A green Christmas

 5 Steps to  a green Christmas

Christmas can be an extravagant time of the year with the wastefulness inevitably taking its toll on the environment. York does, however, have some ways you can enjoy the festive season with a clearer conscience.

STEP 1: abandon the car

The perfect place to abandon the car and explore on foot, York has a fast and efficient Park & Ride service in operation with five sites on the outskirts of the city.

STEP 2: Ethical Shopping

 Find time to explore‘One', an ‘ethical boutique' located on Peter Lane (off Market Street) selling organic clothing and fair trade garments. With a beautiful collection of ladies fashion, shoes, accessories and jewellery, ‘One' proves that ‘green' can in fact be gorgeous. The perfect place to buy eco-friendly gifts this Christmas.

 

The Big Green Market will take place on Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square between 4-7 November. Pick up a Fairtrade cappuccino whilst browsing a wide range of ethically traded goodies, ranging from organic food & drink to handmade crafts and ethical clothing.

 

 

STEP 3: Buy locally

Cut down on food miles and enjoy scrumptious local produce by buying your festive fare from one of York's farmers' markets or farm shops. The Balloon Tree on Stamford Bridge Road (A166) and The Farmers' Cart just North of York sell homegrown fruit and vegetables, award winning preserves and home reared meats.

 

STEP 4: Get out more

Take a break from Christmas shopping and enjoy York's surrounding countryside by hiring a bike and following a cycle path. York has an extensive network of over 100km of cycle routes and is one of only twelve locations in the UK to have been awarded Cycling City status.

Bob Trotter Cycles has a bike for all the family. Visit www.bobtrottercycles.com for more details.

 

Pick up one of the many themed walking trails from York's Visitor Information Centre and discover sights you may otherwise have missed.

 

‘Retrace York' is an interactive rubbings trail which allows you to take rubbings at various panels located around the City Walls until you have assembled a whole map.

 

STEP 5: Recycle

 

After the festive period, don't forget to recycle your Christmas tree at Hazel Court, James Street, just off Hull Road. Open 7 days 8.30am - 4.45pm (4.00pm on Sundays).