Rothbury Estate: Northumberland estate owned by aristocratic family for 700 years up for sale

Within Northumberland's ancient and rugged landscape lies the magnificent Rothbury Estate. Stretching across a vast expanse of 9,486 acres, this extraordinary property has been put up for sale by Lord Max Percy, son of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland.

With a guide price of £35 million, its sale marks a rare opportunity - a once-in-a-lifetime chance to acquire England's largest land sale in 30 years.

Having been in the Percy family since 1332, the decision to sell this cherished estate has not been taken lightly. After relocating to the south of England, Lord Max Percy now seeks a new owner who will embrace the land's bountiful potential while safeguarding its natural splendour.

The sale of Rothbury Estate as a single entity ensures the continued prosperity of the thriving rural community, preserving its identity for future generations to enjoy. A substantial portion of the estate, over 5,000 acres, is occupied by agricultural tenancies, with a further 2,200 acres managed directly. 

Will Matthews, Head of Farms & Estates at Knight Frank, recognises the rarity of an estate of this magnitude and quality entering the open market. He anticipates the land's "numerous ecological and conservational opportunities will attract strong interest from institutional investors and those with private wealth."

Preserving centuries of agricultural heritage

For centuries, the Rothbury Estate has played a vital role in ensuring food security, a responsibility deeply rooted in its history.

The future owner will have the opportunity to continue the tradition of food production, bolstering the local community and contributing to the larger framework of global food security.

With a rich tapestry of grasslands and agricultural potential, Rothbury offers the chance to shape the agricultural landscape while preserving the delicate equilibrium between productivity and environmental stewardship.

A sporting paradise and ecological haven

Beyond its historical significance, Rothbury Estate is an environmental haven, offering its new owners ample opportunities for income generation. It's a paradise for those with a penchant for sporting pursuits, from world-class fishing on the illustrious River Coquet to pheasant and grouse shooting.

Claire Whitfield, a Partner and Head of our Northern Rural team, assures that public access and the right to roam the land will remain untouched. The aim, she says, is to find a custodian who will "responsibly manage and protect this much-treasured landscape."

Spanning the moorland of Rothbury and partially within the Northumberland National Park, the land is home to several sites of significant scientific interest. Moorlands teem with endangered species such as the merlin and cuckoo, showcasing the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems.

With substantial forestry, peatland, and rock habitats, the Rothbury Estate is a testament to the environmental value embedded within its soil.

Unlocking the potential of Rothbury Estate 

The allure of the Rothbury Estate lies not only in its rich history but also in its alignment with the emerging asset class of the 21st century: natural capital.

With the world increasingly acknowledging the deep connection between nature and economic stability, the sale of Rothbury "offers huge potential to create a wide range of valuable nature-based solutions that will help contribute to solving some of society's most pressing issues," says Andrew Shirley, Head of Rural Research at Knight Frank.

While demand for nature-based investments continues to soar, opportunities of this scale are scarce. The Rothbury Estate stands as a beacon, attracting investors who seek to align their financial aspirations with environmental preservation.

Environmental innovation: The power of peatland and carbon sequestration

Within the Rothbury Estate are extensive peatlands. Peatlands are vital carbon sinks, storing significant amounts of carbon and playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.

The estate's peatlands offer immense potential for carbon sequestration, enabling corporate buyers to make significant strides in achieving their environmental targets.

By implementing sustainable land management practices, such as peatland restoration and responsible forestry, a corporate owner could unlock opportunities for carbon offsetting and environmental enhancement.

Conversely, a private buyer would have the privilege of preserving and nurturing this ecosystem, contributing to the broader conservation efforts and leaving a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship.

A diverse range of potential buyers for Rothbury Estate is already emerging, including traditional farmers, estate managers and individuals driven by ecological and philanthropic passions.

Lord Max Percy's decision to part ways with the Rothbury Estate's cherished legacy is rooted in his unwavering commitment to its enduring prosperity. As the baton is passed to new custodians, it will be their duty to build upon the existing links with the local community, enriching the vast array of opportunities that lie within this diverse and captivating rural estate.

For more information about Rothbury Estate, contact Claire Whitfield.

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