rural landscape

UK & Ireland Rural Conference

Wed 13 May 2026 08:30 - 17:00 BST 6 Hours Formal CPD
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Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester GL7 6JS

From £183.83

Overview

Following the success of last year’s Rural Conference, we return in 2026 with a refreshed agenda and renewed focus. The conference takes place at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, a setting closely aligned with the rural sector and well placed to host practical, informed discussion on land, policy and rural opportunity.

This year’s event moves earlier to May, bringing timely insight at a key point in the decision-making cycle for rural professionals. The programme explores where rural policy, land and opportunity intersect, covering government updates, renewable energy land deals, AI adoption, diversification, and the retrofit of historic buildings. Designed for those navigating increasing complexity, the conference provides expert guidance to reduce risk, protect asset value and future-proof rural estates.

Key topics not to be missed

  • DEFRA update
  • Taxation update
  • Trade agreements and implications for the rural sector
  • Where in the UK can landowners profit from wine?
  •  Energy efficiency and retrofit in historic buildings
  • Innovation in the rural sector: opportunities, applications and risks
  • Negotiating options and leases for renewable energy schemes
  • Land agreements for development purposes

Agenda

  • This update will provide updates on a number of ongoing government activities including: Sustainable Farming Incentives, Food Strategy. 

  • An overview of current tax reforms and vital updates for rural surveyors.

  • This session will explore how current and emerging trade agreements are shaping the future of the UK’s rural economy. With a particular focus on UK-EU trade arrangements, speakers will examine the practical implications for farmers, growers and rural businesses operating in an evolving global trading environment.

  • This session explores the rapidly evolving UK wine industry and where landowners can tap into its growing economic potential. We’ll discuss how climate trends, soil conditions, GIS technology and strategic investments are shaping opportunities for vineyards and wine tourism across the UK.

  • This session explores practical strategies for improving energy efficiency in historic buildings while preserving their architectural integrity. Experts will share insights on retrofitting techniques, sustainable materials, and innovative technologies that reduce energy consumption without compromising heritage value. Participants will gain actionable guidance for balancing environmental responsibility with historic preservation.

  • Artificial Intelligence is frequently highlighted as a transformative technology, but what does it mean in practical terms for the rural sector?

    This session will explore how AI is already being applied across agriculture and rural businesses, showcasing real-world examples that demonstrate its potential to improve productivity, decision-making and sustainability.

    Alongside these opportunities, the discussion will also consider the challenges and risks associated with rapid adoption, including cost, skills, data management and unintended consequences.

  • As renewable energy projects expand across the UK, understanding how to negotiate options and leases is vital for landowners and advisors alike. Learn how to navigate potential pitfalls, balance stakeholder interests, and structure agreements that are fair, transparent, and commercially sound.

  • Understand the role of land agreements in development projects. This session covers the key principles, common agreement types, and negotiation considerations for landowners and developers, providing practical guidance to minimize risk, prevent disputes, and ensure successful project outcomes across all UK development contexts.

Speakers

Looking ahead to 2026

To find out more about sponsoring our UK&I Rural Conference, please contact partnerships@rics.org.

Testimonials from 2025

“The quality of speakers was excellent. There were enough overlaps between speakers to put topics into context, without being repetitious.”

“Really excellent event. Nothing is perfect hence 9/10 (consider it 999/1000) but I'm struggling to think of how it could have been better.”

Price summary

RICS Member - Early Bird (Early bird ends 27 March 2026)

GBP £183.83

Non-RICS Member - Early Bird (Early bird ends 27 March 2026)

GBP £229.78

RICS Member

GBP £248.16

Non-RICS Member

GBP £310.20

From £183.83