Northern Roots secures £50,000 from Airbnb Best of British Fund

We’ve been awarded £50,000 through Airbnb’s 2026 Best of British Fund, providing a major boost to the visitor experience at our pioneering urban farm and eco-park here in Oldham.

We were selected as one of this year’s national winners during English Tourism Week in recognition of our charity’s ambitious plans to transform 160 acres of neglected urban greenspace into a landmark destination for nature, food, learning, health and community.

The funding will support the development of a unique programme of “farm to fork” food experiences, bringing together the expertise of Northern Roots’ urban farm growers with award-winning chefs to create seasonal dining events and food festivals that celebrate locally grown produce.

We are transforming underused land in the heart of Oldham into what will become the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park. Our project is creating inspirational spaces and opportunities for people to connect through food, growing, nature, creativity, sport, work and play, while delivering long-term benefits for the local economy, environment and community.

The award came ahead of the opening of the first phase of our development, which includes our new Welcome Building, Forestry Skills Centre and four acres of urban farm. These facilities marked a significant milestone in the long-term vision for Northern Roots, creating a vibrant new destination for residents and visitors alike.

Our innovative approach combines environmental restoration, sustainable food production and community engagement with a growing visitor offer, positioning Oldham as an emerging destination for green tourism and outdoor experiences.

The Airbnb funding will help us expand our offer further, creating memorable visitor experiences that showcase the region’s food, people and landscape while supporting local producers and encouraging more people to explore Oldham.

Anna Da Silva, Chief Executive of Northern Roots, said:

“We’re delighted to have been selected as one of Airbnb’s Best of British Fund winners. This investment will help us create unforgettable food experiences that celebrate everything Northern Roots stands for – bringing people together through locally grown food, nature and community.

“As we continue to develop the site, this funding will enable us to work with talented chefs and our expert growers to create events that attract visitors, support the local economy and showcase Oldham as an exciting destination.”

The Best of British Fund was launched by Airbnb to support unique tourism initiatives across the UK, helping destinations develop new visitor experiences and encourage sustainable local tourism.