INNOVATION AT RAYNHAM
A heritage of forward thinking
From its earliest days, Raynham has been defined by bold ideas and progressive thinking. Whether in architecture, agriculture or land stewardship, the estate has consistently embraced innovation, not for novelty’s sake but to ensure a sustainable and resilient future.
Renewable energy at Raynham
Long before sustainability became a global imperative, Raynham recognised the importance of protecting the environment. Today, its commitment to renewable energy is central to the estate’s identity, helping to reduce carbon impact while supporting the local community.
The Raynham Solar Farm
Powering over 12,000 homes
The solar story began in 2012, when we set our sights on repurposing part of the former RAF West Raynham Airbase. Completed in early 2015, the site became the UK’s largest operational solar power farm (using photovoltaic, or PV, panels) at the time.
Now leased to Bluefield Partners LLP, the solar farm supplies renewable electricity to more than 12,000 homes. A portion of its proceeds supports nearby communities through funding for local projects, sustaining not just energy but local resilience.
Anaerobic digestion: energy from agriculture
Helping heat over 4,000 homes
Commissioned in 2015, Raynham’s anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, Corbiere Renewables, turns agricultural crops and waste into energy. Producing 550 cubic metres of biogas per hour, it generates clean fuel for the mains gas supply and creates a natural by-product: digestate, a powerful organic fertiliser.
Today, we follow a diverse seven-year cropping cycle. This not only supports the AD process but also improves soil structure and long-term farm productivity. Digestate from the AD process has transformed our soils, boosting yields, reducing synthetic inputs and supporting long-term soil health.
In 2022, we sold Corbiere Renewables Ltd to Bio Capital, a leading operator in green energy. Bio Capital now manages the AD plant and continues to partner with Raynham for feedstock supply and land fertilisation, ensuring continuity and local benefit.
Raynham’s approach to innovation is rooted in its heritage and shaped by long-term stewardship, balancing bold ideas with a deep responsibility to land and legacy. This ensures the estate remains productive, resilient and relevant for generations to come.
Innovation rooted in land and legacy
Raynham Estate has long been a place of practical progress, where new ideas grow from deep traditions. From Charles “Turnip” Townshend’s pioneering crop rotation to today’s integrated approach to renewable energy, biodiversity and sustainable land use, innovation is part of the estate’s identity.
This spirit touches every aspect of Raynham, from soil and livestock to architecture, hospitality and the creative use of historic spaces. Each decision reflects a balance between heritage and foresight, shaped by the belief that caring for land and community requires both tradition and transformation.
Innovation at Raynham is not a trend but a way of thinking. It connects past to present and guides the estate’s future, ensuring it remains productive, relevant and resilient for generations to come.
Raynham Secret Supper Club and
Sunday Lunch at The Copse
13/14 September 2025
Seasonal feasting. Long tables. Norfolk skies.
Stay in the know
Get updates on events, dining, offers and news from Raynham.
Sign up to hear what’s happening at Raynham, including seasonal events, dining at The Copse, exclusive offers and new experiences across the estate.