Farmers from every corner of the UK are gearing up for what could be one of the most striking rural demonstrations in years, as hundreds prepare to roll their tractors into Whitehall in a demand for “fairness and a future for British farming.”
The protest, organised by Berkshire Farmers under the banner Farmers To London: Budget Day, has been deliberately timed to coincide with Chancellor Rachel Reeves' autumn budget.
Beginning at 9am on Wednesday (26 November), tractors are expected to make their way into Whitehall via the A4 at Trafalgar Square (the spot identified by what3words as turkey.limit.crab).
The rally aims to spotlight mounting anger over inheritance tax reforms set for April 2026, along with broader concerns for the long-term survival of family farms.
Under the government’s proposals, announced in the 2024 autumn budget, agricultural property relief will be capped at £1 million, with any value above that facing a 50% charge.
Many in the sector warn that the overhaul of agricultural and business property relief could saddle families with heavy tax burdens when passing on holdings, potentially forcing sales or the break-up of long-established farms.
Protest organisers say the surge in support reflects deepening unease across the countryside, fuelled by rising input costs, shifting support schemes and what many view as a lack of clear long-term strategy for British agriculture.
Wednesday's demonstration is scheduled to run from 9am to 4pm, drawing farmers, families and supporters into the heart of government in what is billed as a peaceful, community-led rally.
Participants are being encouraged to bring tractors, banners and vehicles to ensure their message is unmistakably visible in central London.
A programme of speeches will begin mid-morning. Between 10.30am and 11.30am, prominent opposition MPs are expected to address the crowd, followed by a “Starmer’s Farm Live” segment shortly before the chancellor delivers the budget at 12.30pm.
Further contributions from farmers and campaigners will take place throughout the afternoon. Tractors are expected to depart at around 4pm.
“The current inheritance tax system threatens family farms and rural livelihoods — it’s time for change,” organisers said, calling the event a “peaceful, farmer-led protest – by the people, for the people who feed the nation.”
They hope to reinforce the importance of protecting family farms, which have anchored rural communities for generations.
Speakers will emphasise safeguarding domestic food production, protecting rural jobs and securing the future of the next generation.
One organiser said, “Generations of hard work and stewardship are on the line,” urging people to “bring your tractor and stand to make a difference.”
The protest is free and open to all, with organisers encouraging both farmers and the public to stand together at a moment when the budget is expected to set the tone for future rural policy. “Let’s stand together for farming families and a fair future,” they added.
