Savills Reports Active Farmland Market in South West
Savills reports that the South West farmland market held up well in 2025, with steady demand for the best properties despite a difficult economic backdrop and changes to government support for farming.
By the end of October, 24,309 acres had been publicly marketed in the region, 15% less than in the same period of 2024 and in line with the trend across England, though supply is still higher than in any year back to 2018. The South West accounts for 22% of all farmland marketed in England.
Robin Fern, associate director in Savills’ Rural Agency team, described 2025 as a year of recalibration following several volatile seasons. Supply remains fairly tight, with sales driven by factors ranging from succession planning to portfolio changes, and quality and location are paramount. Well-located, productive blocks have sold particularly well.
Average farmland values across England slipped 0.6% over the first three quarters of the year, but with wide variation. In the South West, prime arable land fell 4% to £10,800 per acre, compared with a 2.1% national fall to £10,000 per acre. Fern said pricing strategy is critical, noting that some of the year’s best properties went under offer within days of launch, often above guide after competitive bidding.
On policy, he suggested the Land Use Framework and Local Nature Recovery Strategies could revive interest from natural capital investors, while progress on the Planning and Infrastructure Bill may add development value to some holdings.
Savills expects the market to remain supported by lifestyle and rollover buyers, and advises sellers to combine effective marketing with realistic pricing.
Source: UK Property Forums, original article (10 December 2025)
