The Wildlife Trusts purchase the Rothbury Estate in partnership with Northumberland Wildlife Trust

In the heart of Northumberland's ancient and picturesque landscape lies the magnificent Rothbury Estate. Its 9,486 acres encompasses woodland, moorland and woodland, along with a portfolio of farms and cottages and sites of special scientific interest. Having been in the Percy family since 1332, the entire Estate will now be acquired by The Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts and Northumberland Wildlife Trust through a two-phase purchase agreement.

“We are delighted to announce the sale of The Rothbury Estate to The Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts, who we have no doubt will act as brilliant custodians of this truly special Estate,” says Claire Whitfield, Partner at Knight Frank. “The sale reflects our expertise in securing buyers for the most prestigious and unique property assets despite challenging market headwinds and it has been an absolute privilege to be involved in finding a suitable buyer on behalf of our client. The kindness from the Estate team and community has been remarkable, and we are grateful for their support throughout this process.”

The size and breadth of the Estate presents unique opportunities for The Wildlife Trusts to preserve this treasured piece of English countryside. A location of ecological importance, it is home to a plethora of notable wildlife including curlews, red grouse, mountain bumblebees, emperor moths, and red squirrels, alongside endangered species such as the merlin and cuckoo. Its substantial forestry, grassland, peatland, rock habitats further speak to the significant environmental value it represents.

“We’re very excited to be part of a once in a generation opportunity for a stunning area of countryside where people and nature can thrive side by side,” explains Mike Pratt, chief executive of Northumberland Wildlife Trust. “It signals the start of something quite unique in Northumberland – and it will also have impact on a national scale.”

Importantly the Estate is a thriving community, and the sale has carefully considered the interests of the current farmers, many of which hold agricultural tenancies with lifetime security. A large portion of the land also sits within the Northumberland National Park, including a network of footpaths and bridleways. There will be no alterations to this public access and all land currently protected under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act will remain unchanged.

As Craig Bennett, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts, shares, “The Rothbury Estate will come to play a key role in revitalising local economies, delivering multiple societal and environmental benefits – and it’ll provide the most amazing example for the rest of the country on a scale not seen before. We’re all absolutely delighted to be part of securing this precious piece of natural heritage for the nation.”

For further information please contact our Rural team.