The number of agricultural holdings in England has declined by 14.6% since 2005 as the farming sector continues to consolidate according to analysis from LandSale.
Government data shows the total falling from 247,500 holdings in 2005 to 211,500 in 2025 – a reduction of 36,000.
The long-term decline reflects farmers retiring or leaving the industry alongside established agricultural businesses expanding through land purchases and consolidation.
It comes amid reports that more English farms have been placed on the market than at any point during the past two decades, increasing the importance of effective marketing channels for rural property.
ROUTES TO MARKET CHANGE
The closure of UK Land & Farm has removed a prominent online marketplace previously used to advertise farms, agricultural holdings and rural land.
LandSale said the loss of the platform had prompted farmers, landowners and rural property professionals to seek alternative ways of reaching potential purchasers.
It reported increased activity following the closure, although it did not provide figures showing the scale of the rise.
Adam Morris (main picture, inset), Founder of LandSale, says: “The agricultural sector has always evolved, with land changing hands as farmers retire, businesses grow and owners make decisions about the future of their assets.
“That process depends on having effective routes to market. When a recognised platform closes, it creates uncertainty for sellers who still need to advertise land and connect with potential buyers.”
SPECIALIST MARKETING DEMAND
Agricultural transactions present different marketing requirements from conventional residential sales, with buyers assessing factors including land quality, access, buildings, tenancies, environmental schemes and development potential.
LandSale says specialist platforms could help agents and private sellers connect with buyers actively seeking farms and rural assets.
“What we are seeing is that the need has not disappeared,” Morris adds.
“Farmers and landowners are still looking for ways to sell, and buyers are still looking for opportunities. The market simply needs reliable platforms that understand the unique nature of rural property.”
The findings suggest that although England has fewer individual agricultural holdings than 20 years ago, continued restructuring is generating opportunities for neighbouring farmers, investors and rural businesses seeking to expand their landholdings.
