Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, in South Walsham, has achieved the gold standard in the national sustainable tourism scheme for the UK, www.green-business.

Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, in South Walsham, has achieved the gold standard in the national sustainable tourism scheme for the UK, www.green-business.co.uk.

Fairhaven is the first visitor attraction in Norfolk to receive a gold award, which follows the garden's sustainable tourism accolade in November's EDP Tourism in Norfolk Awards.

The scheme's audit report stated: “Fairhaven is a very eco related gardens attraction. The buildings have incorporated some of the most progressive green elements including heat pumps, rainwater harvesting and sustainable construction methods. The garden areas are very natural and include walks for disabled with a Braille trail for visitors.

“Fairhaven has an excellent craft shop with a great many local and environmentally sourced products. The caf� area has a strong focus on providing and promoting local food. Overall, a good gold award winning business.”

Louise Rout, Fairhaven Garden manager, said: “We are all thrilled to have achieved gold in the green tourism business scheme. Everyone who works at the garden is totally committed to promoting environmental sustainability.”