As more people look for lifestyle changes that bring them closer to nature and offer greater independence, interest in rural properties and smallholdings continues to grow. Whether for hobby farming, sustainability, or simply escaping the urban pace, owning a smallholding is a compelling goal.
At Rover Planet, we explore the practical realities of rural living and land use—not just as observers, but as practitioners. This guide outlines key considerations and tools to help anyone beginning the journey of finding land in the UK suitable for a smallholding, with a focus on Wales and Scotland.
🧭 KEY CRITERIA FOR RURAL PROPERTY SELECTION
Before diving into listings, it’s essential to clarify what makes a property viable—not just in terms of dreams, but day-to-day functionality.
1. Access and Infrastructure
🛒 Grocery delivery: Confirm availability from at least one major provider (Tesco, Asda, Ocado, etc.)
🚗 Proximity to services: Ideally within 30–40 minutes of towns with populations of 15,000–20,000+
🌐 Internet & utilities: Reliable broadband is essential for remote work or digital enterprise
2. Land Suitability
🌾 Size: Between 2 and 10 acres is typically sufficient for small-scale livestock, growing, and workshops
🏞️ Topography: Flat or gently sloping land is easier to manage and more versatile
💧 Drainage & water: Critical for grazing and cultivation
3. Property Features
🏠 A livable house is often more practical than building from scratch
🛖 Outbuildings like barns or sheds can reduce setup costs
📋 Check planning regulations for future expansion or land use changes
📍 RECOMMENDED REGIONS
WALES
Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire – Balanced affordability, access, and scenic locations Powys – More remote and rugged but excellent value for larger plots
SCOTLAND
Dumfries & Galloway – Milder climate, reachable from the border Scottish Borders – Quiet yet accessible to Edinburgh or Newcastle
All these areas offer options for semi-rural life without being cut off from modern essentials.
🔍 RESEARCH TOOLS & TIPS
🏡 Property listings: Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket — use filters like “rural,” “land,” “equestrian”
📦 Grocery delivery: Use postcode checkers from Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Ocado 🌐 Broadband: Test potential addresses using ThinkBroadband
🗺️ Planning & land type: Check MAGIC Map (magic.defra.gov.uk) and your local council’s planning portal
✅ PRIORITISATION MATRIX
Use a simple scoring method (1 to 5) to compare properties:
Grocery Delivery Access — weight 5 Land Quality & Layout — weight 5 Proximity to Towns — weight 4 Internet & Utilities — weight 4 Water Source / Drainage — weight 3 Outbuildings / Infrastructure — weight 3 Planning Flexibility — weight 3
Tip: Create a sheet or checklist and total the scores for each property you’re evaluating.
🛠️ NEXT STEPS FOR RURAL LAND SEEKERS
Test locations for delivery, internet, and driving time Review local planning policies and land designations Engage in local Facebook groups or forums for insight Visit promising sites — what looks good on Rightmove might not deliver on the ground
📚 WHY THIS MATTERS
At Rover Planet, rural projects give us real-world insight into land use, infrastructure strategy, and sustainable development. Our work blends design thinking, systems analysis, and boots-on-the-ground experience.
Whether you’re exploring a personal relocation or planning a land-based business, our process may offer frameworks—or spark ideas—for your next move.