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The 2025 south west farmland market has settled into a more measured rhythm after years of volatility from global and domestic policy shifts. Supply remains limited, with sales driven by succession planning and strategic restructuring—making timing, location, and land quality more critical than volume.
By September, 23,200 acres were openly marketed—a 15% drop from 2024, mirroring England’s overall decline. Despite this, the South West accounted for 22% of all English farmland sales, underscoring its importance. Demand remains strong for well-located, productive land, with competitive bidding for top-quality parcels, though realistic pricing is key as buyers become more selective.
Values eased slightly - across Great Britain, average farmland prices fell 0.6% by the end of September. In the South West, prime arable land dropped 4% to £10,800 per acre versus a national 2.1% decline, while grassland held steady thanks to livestock and dairy interest despite softer milk prices.
Policy changes continue to influence the market. The upcoming Land Use Framework and Local Nature Recovery Strategies may revive natural capital investment, while the Planning and Infrastructure Bill could unlock development opportunities.
Looking ahead, the South West market should remain resilient. Lifestyle buyers and those with roll-over funds are active, and demand for quality land—whether for food production, renewables, forestry, or amenity—stays strong despite wider economic uncertainty. For sellers, realistic pricing and robust marketing will be vital as the best-located, highest-quality land continues to command a premium.