farming at raynham
Centuries of agricultural innovation in Norfolk
Raynham Estate has been recognised for agricultural innovation for centuries. From the revolutionary crop systems of Charles “Turnip” Townshend to today’s focus on sustainable land management, the Townshend family continues to combine heritage with progressive farming.
A working landscape
Today, Raynham farms over 4,200 acres through a mix of in-hand operations, partnerships, and rented land. A seven-course crop rotation underpins the arable system, combining root and cereal crops to improve resilience and soil health.
- 600 acres of grassland support the estate’s Aberdeen Angus beef herd
- 700 acres of woodland are managed under a long-term commercial plan
- All farmland is entered into Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship and Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) schemes
These environmental agreements promote biodiversity, enhance habitats, and protect soil structure across the estate.
Turnip Townshend and the four-course system
In the early 18th century, Charles Townshend, 2nd Viscount, developed the Norfolk four-course rotation system at Raynham. His method introduced a cycle of wheat, turnips, barley and clover, dramatically improving soil fertility and crop yields.
The clover and ryegrass were grazed by livestock, whose manure further enriched the fields, creating a virtuous cycle. This approach not only boosted food production but is widely acknowledged as the catalyst of Britain’s Agricultural Revolution.
Farming forward – innovation and sustainability
Raynham continues to blend traditional techniques with modern science to reduce impact and build long-term resilience. Key practices include:
- Reduced cultivation to protect soil structure
- Widespread use of winter cover crops
- Precision input management to lower chemical use
- Application of digestate from the anaerobic digestion plant as a natural fertiliser
These changes have led to a 50 percent reduction in artificial fertiliser use and a 20 percent reduction in chemical applications to date, with goals to improve further.
At Raynham, the soil is both a legacy and a future asset. Every decision is made with long-term sustainability in mind, ensuring the land remains productive and healthy for generations to come.
Raynham Secret Supper Club and
Sunday Lunch at The Copse
13/14 September 2025
Seasonal feasting. Long tables. Norfolk skies.
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