London Farming Rally: What you need to know

On Tuesday 19 November, farmers from across the UK will converge on London for the London Farming Rally, a pivotal event set to draw nationwide attention to the ongoing challenges facing British agriculture.

The day has been chosen to complement a mass lobby of MPs by 1,800 NFU farmer-members over at Church House, Westminster, which starts at 9am the same day.

Amid the backdrop of the Labour government’s controversial autumn Budget, farmers are uniting to voice their concerns and demand action from policymakers.

See also: Farmers told to register in advance for London mass rally

For those attending, understanding the rally’s purpose and logistical details is key to making the most of this significant day.

Why the rally matters

Farmers are banding together to highlight the significant threats posed by recent government policies, which many argue jeopardise the survival of family farms and the wider rural economy.

With challenges ranging from climate change to post-Brexit agricultural reforms, the farming community is grappling with increased financial pressures. The rally aims to bring these issues to the forefront, particularly the impact of the recent Budget, which has been seen as a direct attack on the farming sector.

One of the most contentious issues is the proposed changes to agricultural inheritance tax (IHT) relief, which are due to take effect from 6 April 2026.

This means that family farms, which often rely on passing land down through generations, will face tax bills of 20% when transferring ownership. Many fear that these changes could force farmers to sell land or businesses that have been built over decades.

The government estimates that the changes will affect under 500 farms a year, and that almost three-quarters of estates claiming Agricultural Property Relief (APR) will not be affected.

By contrast, the NFU argues that the changes will disproportionately affect the wider agricultural industry, with three-quarters of food produced by British farmers potentially being hit.

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) estimates around 70,000 farms across the UK could be affected by the government’s proposed reforms. The CLA has warned that this could put many family-run farms at risk, particularly as they are often land-rich but cash-poor.

The IHT changes could force families to break up their farms, selling off parts of their land to meet tax obligations, it says.

Rally details

The independent farmers’ event is being organised by a group of farmers, including Clive Bailye, Olly Harrison, Martin Williams, Andrew Ward and James Mills.

Clive Bailye, Staffordshire farmer and founder of The Farming Forum, said: “The consequences of the Budget on family farms, the rural economy and the countryside will be devastating.

“As shock turned to anger in farming communities, it became clear that there was need for an event where those affected were able to demonstrate to politicians the enormity of the effect their poorly conceived policy will have upon the next generation of Britain’s farmers.”

Lincolnshire farmer and event organiser Andrew Ward added: “The government has attacked family farms and businesses with a spiteful Budget which threatens the very heart of the countryside.

“Food production, wildlife and generations that have built a business will suffer, and Labour need to realise just how many people will be affected.”

Organisers are urging farmers to leave their tractors and other farm machinery at home. The Metropolitan Police has warned that anyone who blocks traffic with farm machinery could face arrest.

Relocation

Originally set to take place in Trafalgar Square, the growing number of attendees has prompted the organisers to relocate the event to Richmond Terrace on Whitehall, right opposite Downing Street, London (What3Words fresh.butter.grapes).

The nearest Tube stations are Westminster and Embankment.

This central location will ensure that the rally captures the attention of both politicians and the public. Participants are asked to gather from 11am, where they will hear from a diverse range of speakers, including industry leaders, TV personalities, and political figures, all supporting the cause of family farms.

The rally will feature a procession to Parliament Square, with children driving toy tractors to symbolise the threat the Budget poses to future generations of farmers.

The procession will then return to Richmond Terrace, where NFU president Tom Bradshaw will deliver a final address.

This is a day for farmers to unite and send a clear message to the government about the devastating effects of the Budget and its consequences for rural communities.

Food bank donations

In addition to the protest, the rally will serve as a reminder of the role farmers play in feeding the nation. Attendees are encouraged to bring food donations, especially British-produced items, to a designated food bank drop-off point at Richmond Terrace, Whitehall, London (What3Words fresh.butter.grapes).

These donations will be distributed by City Harvest to those in need, symbolising the resilience of farmers who continue to feed the public despite increasing challenges.

The act of donating highlights the dedication of farmers, many of whom are forced to sell their products below the cost of production.

Key considerations 

Farmers attending the rally should be aware of the event’s guidelines. It is vital that participants adhere to the organisers’ requests to maintain the farming industry’s positive image.

Attendees are encouraged to wear boots and wellies as a symbol of their hard work and to leave the area clean and litter-free.

The rally is intended to be a peaceful, family-friendly demonstration, and the organisers are working closely with the Metropolitan Police to ensure the safety of all participants.

For those attending, registering online in advance is crucial to receive updates about the event. The organisers will be distributing 1,000, A3 placards to participants at the rally meet-up point, providing a visible way for attendees to show their support.

These have been funded by the British Farming Union (BFU).

Alternatively, you can make your own placards by using the posters displayed on the back cover of Farmers Weekly. Download it here.

The organisers are also urging attendees to stay extra vigilant for professional pickpockets who could seek to prey on big crowds to steal personal items.

“Farmers should also leave their pen knives at home. They do not need to be cutting baler twine here,” advised Mr Harrison.

Conclusion

The London Farming Rally represents a critical moment for the UK’s farming community. It’s an opportunity for farmers to come together, raise their voices, and demand that the government reconsider policies that threaten their livelihoods.

With the future of family farms at stake, this rally is more than just a protest – it’s a chance for the farming community to make its case directly to the heart of government.

Whether farmers are concerned about IHT changes, declining subsidies, or the growing pressures of climate change, this event will allow them to stand united for the future of British agriculture.

Participants will be posting photos and videos on the day on social media using the hashtags #SaveFamilyFarms #FamilyFarmTax #WeJustWantToFeedYou #NoFarmTax