Industry News

Future Countryside, the leading national forum for rural policy and debate, will take place at Raby Castle on 2 June 2026.

Now in its fourth year, Future Countryside returns at a defining moment for rural Britain. The countryside is under real pressure, but it is also full of energy, ideas and opportunity. This makes the need for open, constructive debate more important than ever.

Many of the nation’s key rural voices are set to attend, with speakers including broadcaster and television presenter Kirstie Allsopp, author Sir Simon Jenkins, and columnist Matt Ridley.

Future Countryside 2026 is not about looking back. It is about what comes next. From food production and environmental delivery to rural enterprise, housing and skills, the event will spotlight the people and innovations already shaping a modern, dynamic countryside, alongside the policies needed to unlock its full potential.

Across the day, farmers, land managers, business leaders, environmentalists and policymakers will come together to challenge assumptions, share solutions and build partnerships. The focus is clear, how the countryside can drive economic growth, strengthen communities, support nature recovery and deliver for the whole nation.

Further speakers include Craig Bennett (The Wildlife Trusts) and Chris Woodley-Stewart (North Pennines National Landscape), leading voices in nature and land management; alongside business leadership from Rupert Soames and heritage representation through René Olivieri (National Trust). Political and policy insight will come from Minette Batters, Chris Smith, Kate Rock and Daniel Zeichner MP, bringing together a unique mix of voices shaping the countryside’s future.

Lord Barnard, who is generously hosting the event at Raby Castle with his wife Lady Barnard, commented:

“The Future Countryside Event is a forum for creative thought and debate on some of the most difficult issues facing our precious rural environment. It brings together some of the most influential rural leaders from diverse backgrounds and professional experience. I’m delighted that the event is coming to the north of England and that Raby will be hosting. Much has changed here in recent years, and I hope our own experiences will contribute to the conversation.”

Lord Herbert of South Downs, Chair of Future Countryside, added:

“Future Countryside 2026 will be a chance to put rural Britain at the heart of national political debate. The decisions taken in the coming years will shape the lives, livelihoods and landscapes of generations to come. Holding the event at Raby Castle symbolises both tradition and renewal, and we are proud to be convening voices from every part of the rural sector in such a historic setting.”

With its unique coalition of farming, conservation, business, community and political interests, Future Countryside has established itself as the leading forum for charting a resilient and sustainable rural future.

For more information visit the website.