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Future Countryside, now in its fourth year, has become the leading national forum for leaders, policymakers and rural communities to debate and shape the future of Britain’s countryside. Uniting a unique coalition of organisations and individuals, it drives a shared commitment to a sustainable, resilient countryside that is a cornerstone of national progress and belongs to everyone. Its flagship 2026 conference will take place at Raby Castle, Park, and Gardens, County Durham, in June next year.
Future Countryside 2026 will explore how the countryside can drive national priorities, from food security and environmental stewardship to health, wellbeing and social prescribing. It will also shine a spotlight on opportunities for young people and on building stronger connections between rural and urban communities, ensuring the countryside has a strong voice in shaping the national agenda while demonstrating its power to inspire unity, resilience and renewal.
Lord Barnard, who will host the event at Raby Castle, said:
“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 next year 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 www.futurecountryside.org/future-countryside-2026.