The East Midlands bucked the national trend for land supply in 2025. Up to the end of September, 21,900 acres were marketed, 4% up on 2024, accounting for 20% of all land marketed in England. The region continues to offer size and scale unmatched elsewhere, with several large-scale Grade 1 opportunities emerging this year. These rare offerings attracted wide ranging interest.
We’ve also been involved in a considerable number of off-market transactions across the East Midlands.
Strong values were achieved for high-quality Grade 1 land, exceeding 2024 levels. However, values for combinable cropping land plateaued or slightly decreased in some areas - influenced by location, quality, access and soil type. This is not surprising given the increased supply. Still, well-priced properties continue to attract strong demand, competitive bidding and sales above guide price.
A wide variety of buyers remain active. Investors are particularly drawn to Grade 1 arable land for its higher rental returns. Meanwhile, combinable cropping farmers have faced a tough 24 months, with no signs of relief. The dry summer has highlighted the growing importance of irrigation, with irrigated land commanding higher values. We’re seeing greater divergence in values, with location and local buyer interest playing a larger role.
Motivated purchasers, many with roll-over funds, remain in the market. With ongoing housing development, we expect this trend to continue. Farmers and farming businesses remain active, driven by the belief that land opportunities may not come again soon.
We anticipate continued strong demand for Grade 1 land, driven by its productivity and the greater returns it offers to investors and farming businesses.