The Battle For The
British Countryside
Guy Shrubsole, Fiona Reynolds, Andrew Bullock & Mary-Ann Ochota
What is the British countryside actually for? A working food factory, a concrete solution to the housing crisis, a sanctuary for nature, or simply a picturesque backdrop for tourists? As modern pressures collide, the centuries-old battle over land ownership, purpose and public access has reached a tipping point. Join Festival President and former National Trust Director General Fiona Reynolds, bestselling author Guy Shrubsole, and seasoned Cotswold farmer Andrew Bullock to interrogate the history of our rural spaces and debate who gets to decide their future. From the right to roam to the race for renewable energy, our panel tackles the urgent choices that will reshape the British landscape forever. Chaired by broadcaster and CPRE President Mary-Ann Ochota.
Fiona is currently serving as High Sheriff of Gloucestershire 2026-7, with a focus on rural issues. Each ticket includes a £1.50 donation to the High Sheriff’s Fund.
Location
Bingham Hall,
King Street, Cirencester, GL7 1JT.
Date & Time
Sunday 1 November,
4 pm to 5.15 pm
Tickets
Standard: £12.50
Under 22s: £5
Bingham Hall
Parking information
Limited on-street parking available. Nearest car parks: Forum Car Park; Beeches Car Park and some spaces at Cirencester Primary School on Victoria Rd. Free weekend parking is also available at St James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Rd, GL7 1FP and the council offices at Trinity Road, GL7 1PX, which is also available on weekday evenings after 6:30pm. Please allow plenty of time.
Accessibility information
The main hall is wheelchair and pushchair accessible with accessible toilet facilities within easy reach.