Sustainability

We believe that access to green spaces is a right, not a privilege. Nature is for everyone and we’re passionate about opening the gates — quite literally — for more people to experience the peace, wonder and freedom that being outdoors brings.

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With that access comes responsibility: to care for the landscapes we walk through, to tread lightly and to pass on the stories, history and knowledge that help others do the same. By walking together, we’re not just exploring the Northumberland landscape — we’re building understanding, connection and a shared commitment to look after it for the future.

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We’re committed to keeping our adventures kind to the land and the communities we explore. That means:

• Supporting local campaigns that encourage sustainable choices and reduce environmental impact

• Sharing simple ways we can all care for the trails and wild places we love

• Encouraging reusable materials and low-waste habits

• Championing independent cafés, shops and local businesses

• Designing tours that are accessible by public transport wherever possible

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Climate

We encourage guests to travel by public transport wherever possible and provide clear information on bus and train routes. We’ve moved our tour start times to coincide with the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Country Bus, making it easier to arrive sustainably. We also offer pick-ups from local bus and train stations to keep travel simple and accessible.

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When transfers are needed, we car-share with guests to reduce our impact. Our Whistlestop Tour is driven in a Hyundai Kona, a semi-hybrid vehicle that offers comfort while lowering emissions. Most importantly, all of our itineraries are experienced on foot, producing minimal carbon emissions during the tours themselves.

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Circular Economy

We operate on a low-waste basis, avoiding single-use plastics and encouraging guests to bring refillable bottles and reusable cups. Walking poles are provided — a real game-changer on the trails — giving confidence without the need for disposable alternatives. Supplies such as snacks and printed materials are sourced from local, sustainable producers. Any printed items are kept minimal and recyclable with most communication handled digitally.

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Biodiversity

We follow Leave No Trace principles on every tour, keeping routes respected and litter-free. Along the way, we share knowledge about local flora, fauna and conservation projects, inspiring guests to connect with and support them. Where possible, we partner with organisations working to restore and protect the landscape such as local wildlife trusts.

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Community

Sustainability also means supporting the people who make Northumberland unique. We partner with and promote local businesses from independent cafés to family-run shops and accommodations. By keeping our tours rooted in the local economy, we help ensure that tourism benefits the wider community as much as it does our guests.​

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Green Award

We’re thrilled to have been awarded a Green Tourism Bronze Award! This recognition from a world-leading sustainability accreditation means a lot to us. As a small team of two, we’re committed to improving the way we take care of the region we love so much and proud to be making meaningful steps on our Green Journey, working towards our Sustainability Goals. From our Green Tourism sustainability report (3 April, 2025):​

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Our Promise

Sustainability is a journey, not a checkbox. We’re committed to listening, learning and improving as we grow. Every step we take is guided by a simple principle: to leave Hadrian’s Wall and Northumberland better than we found them.

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Can we do better? Let us know — we’d love your input to help us be better stewards of the trails and paths we walk together. Reach us at curiuscompass@gmail.com or call 07922 009979.