Chesterfield rewilding project shortlisted for two prestigious awards
Based in Cutthorpe, Wild & Other, a 20-acre rewilding project and three sustainable holiday cottages, has been shortlisted in both the Regenerative Tourism Award and New Tourism Business of the Year in the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards.
Wild and Other is celebrating a strong year of awards that highlight its care for nature people and place. Based at Cow Close Farm in Cutthorpe the project continues to gain praise for its gentle approach to sustainable tourism.
The aim is simple. Create spaces where nature flourishes and where people can rest. The team has brought new life to the twenty acre site on the edge of the Peak District. Its three cottages offer calm comfort and space to switch off. As a result guests often slow down and enjoy the land at their own pace.
This approach continues to impress award judges. They praise Wild and Other for its eco conscious design its support for local suppliers and its active work to restore rare habitats. They also highlight the warm visitor experience that defines every stay.
Founders Steve and Emily Coles lead the project with a clear shared vision. Steve works closely with local ecologist Julie Riley to restore meadows hedgerows and woodland. Already barn owls and sparrowhawks have returned and fresh signs of plant and insect life are appearing across the site.
Meanwhile Emily brings the same care to the interiors. She uses natural materials and soft modern comforts to create simple peaceful spaces. As well as her attention to detail also stands out in recent tourism awards.
The team makes clear ethical choices across every part of the site. They use renewable energy and choose sustainable supplies for each cottage. In addition, local and B Corp partners help keep standards high.
The awards push the team to go even further. They plan new ponds to support the great crested newt and new bee banks to give solitary bees a safe home. At the same time they are exploring a second site to expand their impact.
“We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted, especially as we’ve heard that there were a record number of entries this year. Being a finalist for the Regenerative Tourism Award feels particularly special because supporting nature and increasing biodiversity is at the very heart of everything we do.” explains Steve Coles – Co-Founder and Managing Director of Wild & Other.
Overall, Wild and Other continues to grow its reputation as one of the areas most thoughtful eco tourism destinations. Its award success shows the strong impact a small focused team can achieve with a clear purpose.
