TO PEOPLE, PLACE AND PLANET Our commitment
At The Grove, caring for people and protecting the natural world are at the very heart of who we are. We believe that hospitality isn’t just about service, it’s about creating spaces where communities thrive, where nature is respected, and where every choice contributes to a better future.
We are proud to share this Impact Report, which captures the steps we have taken — both large and small — to champion sustainability, support our local community, and create unforgettable experiences for our guests in ways that are thoughtful and responsible. Every achievement outlined here is the result of genuine passion and dedication from our team, our partners, and our wider community.
From restoring native habitats across our grounds to partnering with sustainable suppliers, from reducing waste to empowering future generations through education, we are committed to delivering progress that is real, meaningful, and lasting.
We recognise that true leadership in sustainability and community care demands ongoing investment, innovation, and a willingness to do better every day. With that spirit in mind, we are excited to continue building on these foundations, always striving to create a greener grove.
Our commitment
We are passionate about protecting our planet. Every one of us has a part to play and together, we can make a real difference. This policy is our commitment to shrink our carbon footprint, champion sustainability, and deliver an even better experience for our guests.
HOW WE DELIVER OUR COMMITMENT:
• Champion local products, businesses, and suppliers.
• Set and share key environmental performance goals.
• Minimise waste and maximise smart waste management.
• Foster a culture where using energy wisely is second nature, encouraging innovation across the business.
• Review and refine operational practices to cut energy use wherever possible.
• Maintain equipment to ensure it runs at peak energy efficiency.
• Invest in smart, sustainable technologies that lower our carbon footprint.
A greener future
At The Grove, we recognise our responsibility to protect and enhance the natural environment around us. Sustainability is embedded in the way we manage our hotel, grounds, and operations. Through ongoing investment and action, we aim to minimise our impact, restore biodiversity, and build a greener future for generations to come.
OUR GROUNDS: SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION
We have a range of initiatives across our estate that protect biodiversity, conserve resources, and enhance the natural environment. Highlights include:
Jemima’s Kitchen Garden
Newly refurbished and thriving, Jemima’s Kitchen Garden is a biodiverse haven where our chefs hand-pick fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs for our restaurants. We’re also proud to produce our own beer, gin, and honey.
Renewable Energy Investment
We continue to invest in renewable energy programmes to power The Grove sustainably, year after year.
Award-Winning Green Spaces
We are proud to be GEO Certified and named Environmental Golf Course of the Year at the Golf Environment Awards 2022, a tribute to the outstanding work of our gardeners, greenkeepers, and grounds team.
Wildlife Regeneration
We have created a flourishing wetland area within our woodlands, offering a sanctuary for newts, frogs, water voles, dragonflies, and more.
Reforesting Our Future
Through our native tree and shrub regeneration programme, and an ongoing target to plant 2,000 native trees annually, we are growing tomorrow’s woodlands today.
Natural Partnerships
Working with the Hertfordshire & Middlesex Wildlife Trust, we are restoring natural habitats, from River Gade chalk stream conservation to nurturing wildflower meadows and native grasses.
Greener Machinery
We are switching to electric vehicles and eco-friendly tools across the estate to reduce emissions and noise.
OUR HOTEL: SUSTAINABLE HOSPITALITY
We are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences in ways that respect the environment, minimise our footprint, and inspire more sustainable ways to stay. Highlights include:
Deliciously plant-based
Our menus are brimming with vegan and vegetarian options, helping guests lower their carbon footprint while enjoying the very best seasonal flavours.
Lighting the way
All our rooms feature energy-saving LED lights, cutting energy use without compromising on comfort.
Sustainable indulgence
We’ve partnered with Bamford, a luxury skincare brand rooted in natural, sustainable ingredients.
Naturally clean
Our cleaning products are made from bio-based oils and plant-based ingredients, keeping spaces spotless without the need for harsh chemicals.
Digital-first news
We’ve reduced printed newspapers by 60%, with guests now accessing news and magazines via a digital media app.
Turning waste into resource
All food waste is processed on-site through an aerobic digester, minimising our environmental impact.
OUR HOTEL: SUSTAINABLE HOSPITALITY
Thoughtful touches
We offer paper ear buds in guest bedrooms as part of our commitment to reducing single-use plastics.
Inspiring young explorers
We’ve launched a forest school at Anouska’s Kids’ Club, giving children the chance to connect with nature through adventure and learning.
Print with purpose
Our quarterly newspaper, The Grove Buzz, is printed on 100% recycled and recyclable paper.
Harnessing solar power
Solar arrays on two of our roofs generate clean, renewable energy for the estate.
Living roofs
Our Cedar Suite features a sedum roof garden, and the Amber Suite boasts a green roof, helping to boost biodiversity and improve insulation.
Zero to landfill
None of The Grove’s waste ends up in landfill thanks to our partnership with Grundon Waste Management.
Restoring wild spaces
We’ve created a flourishing wetland area within our ancient woodlands, a carefully restored habitat that now offers sanctuary to a growing number of native species. This regeneration project plays a vital role in supporting biodiversity on the estate, helping to re-establish natural water flow, improve soil health, and provide safe breeding grounds for wildlife.
It also offers a unique opportunity for guests and local school groups to connect with nature, observe wildlife in its natural environment, and see conservation in action. At The Grove, protecting these delicate ecosystems is central to our role as long-term custodians of the land.
SUPPLIERS
SOURCING SUSTAINABLE PRODUCE
At The Grove, great food starts with great values. Many of our ingredients are hand-picked from our gardens or sourced from trusted suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability and quality. Explore some of the passionate producers we work with below.
Bakery
For baked goods not prepared on-site, we partner with Flourish Bakery, known for their commitment to artisanal methods and freshly baked produce.
Meat
Our beef, lamb and pork are sourced from Donald Russell, where all livestock are grassfed to the highest welfare standards.
Fish
We source responsibly from Reach Food, ensuring the freshest catch for our dishes.
Fruit and vegetables
We work with Watts Farms and RossCo to supply fresh, seasonal produce for our kitchens.
Dairy
Our organic dairy products come from Foodspeed, a recognised B Corp dedicated to high environmental and animal welfare standards.
The Grove Gin
Distilled at Puddingstone Distillery, our gin is crafted with fresh botanicals hand-picked from Jemima’s Kitchen Garden.
Coffee
The coffee pods in our bedrooms and meeting rooms are supplied by Nespresso.
The Grove Beer
Brewed locally by The 3 Brewers in St Albans, using hops sourced straight from Jemima’s Kitchen Garden.
PEOPLE AND INDUSTRY
SUPPORTING CHARITIES AND OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
At The Grove, caring for our local community is just as important as caring for the environment. We’re proud to support a wide range of charities, groups, and initiatives, working together to make a positive difference over the years. Some of the organisations we’re proud to support include:
The Peace Hospice
Supporting individuals and families affected by life-limiting illnesses in our local area.
Watford Chamber of Conscience
In partnership with Home Start and Small Acts of Kindness, we helped deliver over 3,600 hot meals, 8,000 bottles of water, hundreds of ESPA moisturisers, and 1,000 chocolate treats to frontline workers and vulnerable families during the pandemic. In 2024, the Chamber delivered quarterly training workshops for our team on Diversity and Inclusion, Disability Awareness, and Sustainability.
The Hospice of St. Francis
Providing care and support for people living with life-shortening illnesses in Hertfordshire and beyond.
Say it with a Smile Dementia Charity
We host regular coffee mornings in our Lounges for individuals living with dementia and their carers, offering connection and support.
Montrose Care Home
Alongside Say it with a Smile, we host coffee mornings at Montrose Care Home to support residents and carers.
Unity In the Community – A Hertfordshire Community Event at The Grove
In 2024 we hosted the first ‘Unity in the Community’ event. bringing together 20 local charities to share their work and build stronger networks across Hertfordshire. In 2025, we will host a second, improving on last year’s event.
We are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences in ways that respect the environment, minimise our footprint, and inspire more sustainable ways to stay. Highlights include:
Awards
Deliciously plant-based
Our menus are brimming with vegan and vegetarian options, helping guests lower their carbon footprint while enjoying the very best seasonal flavours.
Sustainable indulgence
Giving back with Clean the World
Unused toiletries are collected and recycled and hygiene kits, helping vulnerable families world stay healthy.
Lighting the way
AND ACCREDITATIONS
We’ve partnered with Bamford, a luxury skincare brand rooted in natural, sustainable ingredients.
Turning waste into resource
All food waste is processed on-site through an aerobic digester, minimising our environmental impact
Thoughtful touches
All our rooms feature energy-saving LED lights, energy use without compromising on comfort.
Naturally clean
We are proud to be recognised for our ongoing commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community care. These awards and accreditations reflect the hard work and passion of our team, and the partnerships we continue to build with like-minded organisations. They inspire us to keep raising the bar, delivering unforgettable experiences while protecting the natural world and supporting those around us.
We offer paper ear buds in guest bedrooms as part of our commitment to reducing single-use plastics.
• Golf World ‘Green’ Top 100 Resorts 2023
Print with purpose
Our quarterly newspaper, The Grove Buzz, is printed on 100% recyclable paper.
• GEO Certified – assured by the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf
Our cleaning products are made from bio-based plant-based ingredients, keeping spaces spotless the need for harsh chemicals.
Digital-first news
We’ve reduced printed newspapers by 60%, now accessing news and magazines via a digital
Harnessing solar power
Solar arrays on two of our roofs generate clean, energy for the estate.
• Golf Environment Awards 2022 – Environmental Golf Course of the Year
Living roofs
• Green Apple Award – Silver for Environmental Best Practice
Our Cedar Suite features a sedum roof garden, and the Amber Suite boasts a green roof, helping to boost biodiversity and improve insulation.
Inspiring young explorers
We’ve launched a forest school at Anouska’s Kids’ Club, giving children the chance to connect with nature through adventure and learning.
EMPOWERING OUR PEOPLE
Our people are at the heart of everything we do. We’re proud to support our colleagues with development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives, and the chance to grow rewarding careers within hospitality.
Career Development
We’re always exploring exciting new ways to connect and collaborate with local schools, colleges and universities helping to inspire the next generation of talent! Through tailored development programmes for school leavers and graduates, we showcase the diverse and rewarding careers in hospitality. From careers fairs and student visits at The Grove to promoting apprenticeships, F&B insights, and graduate programmes, we help young people take their first step into a vibrant industry. Internally, our learning and development roadmap offers enriching workshops and leadership training for team members, supervisors, and mid-level managers.
Diversity and Inclusion
In 2024, we launched quarterly training workshops in partnership with the Watford Chamber of Conscience, focused on Diversity and Inclusion, Disability Awareness, and Sustainability.
Wellbeing and Support
Our teams have access to a range of wellbeing resources, training workshops, and professional development programmes designed to support both personal and professional growth. At the heart of our estate is the Wellbeing Garden, a peaceful space where team members can pause, reflect, and recharge. We also host a variety of team-led classes, including yoga, designed to encourage movement and connection. Outside of work, we actively support mental health initiatives, with colleagues regularly taking part in charity runs, cycle rides and awareness events, always with our full encouragement behind them.
Inspiring
SUSTAINABLE STAYS
We believe every guest has the power to help protect the planet and we’re making it easier to make more sustainable choices during your stay at The Grove.
Towel and Linen Reuse
Guests are encouraged to reuse towels and linens during their stay, helping us to conserve water and reduce energy use, without compromising on comfort.
Digital Guest Services
In-room tablets and QR codes provide instant access to menus, information, and hotel services, helping to reduce printed materials and paper waste. Talk to our Grove buddy for quick and easy access to information.
Recyclable Amenities
We offer recyclable and responsibly sourced in-room amenities, including paper ear buds and eco-friendly packaging, to minimise single-use plastic.
EV Charging
We offer convenient electric vehicle charging points across the estate, making it easier for guests to travel more sustainably.
Thoughtful Gifting
Our spa and retail areas feature sustainable gifts, skincare, and homeware from trusted, ethical brands, offering guests more conscious ways to shop and unwind.
Connecting with Nature
Guests are invited to explore Jemima’s Kitchen Garden, a biodiverse space where our chefs gather seasonal produce. Or enrol little ones in our multiple nature trails, designed to nurture curiosity and a lifelong connection to the natural world.
Dining with Purpose
Seasonal menus are designed around local, plant-rich ingredients, including produce grown on-site, making sustainable choices an option.
OUR NEXT STEPS
We know there is always more we can do. Our journey towards a greener, more inclusive future continues, with further investment in renewable energy, the expansion of biodiversity projects across the estate, and even stronger partnerships with our local community. Every step brings us closer to a lasting positive impact for our people, our place, and our planet. In the year ahead, we will focus on:
• Planting 2,000 native trees annually as part of our long-term woodland regeneration programme.
• Continuing our investment in renewable energy, building on our solar array capacity and exploring additional sustainable technologies.
• Introducing clearer sustainability labelling in guest rooms to encourage more conscious choices and increase awareness.
• Improving internal communication, with monthly updates for our teams on waste reduction and energy use to foster a shared sense of accountability.
• Making this Impact Report available online, sharing our progress publicly and transparently.
• Refreshing signage across the estate to better reflect our values and guide guests in making more sustainable decisions during their stay.
