The Groundswell Regenerative Agriculture Festival 2025, held last week at Lannock Farm in Hertfordshire, was a lively gathering of farmers, scientists, policymakers and enthusiasts, all buzzing with ideas to reshape our food systems through regenerative practice. Think of it as Glastonbury with a farming twist: full of energy, optimism and a shared passion for working with nature, rather than against it.
A growing community united by purpose
Groundswell 2025 drew thousands to swap ideas on soil health, regenerative farming, and rural life. From world-famous DJ Andy Cato to a surprise appearance from HRH Prince William, the mix of expert farmers, academics and politicians was inspiring. Discussions were refreshingly open and no-nonsense, tackling thorny issues like policy reform and nature recovery with a collaborate spirit. It left me hopeful for a food system that can nourish both people and the planet.
Solutions to health and ecological challenges
The festival shone a light on some harsh realities: 30% of UK children are obese, only 9% eat their five-a-day and just 4% of adults get enough fibre. These stats point to a deeper cultural crisis tied to how we grow our food. Regenerative agriculture, with its focus on nutrient-rich crops and biodiversity, was pitched as a practical way forward, offering an alternative to the outdated practices of industrial farming.
‘Beavermania’ strikes Groundswell
Perhaps the highlight of the festival was the Beaver-themed talk hosted by the Wildlife Trusts CEO, Craig Bennet, focusing on getting farmers Eurasian Beaver ‘ready’. We heard from farmers who already have beavers on their land – both intentionally and unintentionally, and how with the right financial incentives and management support, Beavers can increase farming resilience by reducing flood and drought risk and accelerate on-farm nature recovery. Here at Surrey WT, we’re actively looking at the feasibility of releasing beavers back into Surrey’s landscape in partnership with local farmers. Find out more about our Ecosystem Engineers appeal here.
Concluding thoughts
Big changes are coming to our farming system in the years ahead. The bold, collaborative spirit so clearly present at Groundswell will be essential to future-proofing farming so it produces for people, nature and climate.
Will Kelsey - Surrey Wildlife Trust Corporate Partnerships Officer