The farmland market in England held steady during the first three months of the year 2026 – despite a cautious mood across the sector.
Just over 7,000 acres were publicly marketed in the first quarter, according to the latest figures from Strutt & Parker. That is 3,300 acres fewer than the same period in 2025 and 15% below the five-year average.
Limited supply has helped support prices, even as farm businesses face rising costs and wider uncertainty. Weather has also played a role, says Sam Holt, Strutt & Parker’s head of estates and farm agency.
Supply constrained
“The persistent rain during the early part of the year has been one contributing factor, with vendors understandably reluctant to bring property to the market while conditions were so wet,” he says.
Wider uncertainty is also affecting decision-making. But Mr Holt says market activity has not fallen away as sharply as sentiment might suggest – despite some farmers being apprehensive about the future.
“More generally there is a sense that some are delaying major decisions pending greater clarity on the impact of the changes to inheritance tax and the wider consequences of the conflict in the Middle East.”
“There is a nervousness within the arable sector, which has had a challenging three years and is now, once again, facing rising fuel and fertiliser costs. Yet despite this volatility, the market remains relatively robust.”
Firm prices
Prices continue to vary widely depending on location and competition. Private sales remain active. Mr Holt says a 1,800-acre arable farm recently exchanged just two weeks after an offer was accepted.
At the lower end, some arable land is selling for around £7,500/acre. In stronger areas, values are significantly higher. In 2025, 30% of arable land sold for £12,000/acre or more.
“Overall, while activity in recent months has been relatively subdued and transactions are tending to progress slowly, it is a market that feels stable, with opportunities for both buyers and sellers.”