As Scotland’s rural estates navigate an increasingly complex future, one thing is clear – the next generation will play a vital role in protecting and shaping these iconic landscapes for years to come. 

This year’s GWCT Scottish Game Fair, taking place from 3–5 July at the historic Scone Palace, will bring together leading voices from across the rural sector to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Scotland’s estates, land managers and sporting businesses. 

Among them is William Murray, Viscount Stormont, custodian and general partner of the 19,000-acre Scone Palace Estate. As the 16th generation of his family to manage the historic Perthshire estate, William understands both the privilege and responsibility that comes with safeguarding Scotland’s rural heritage. 

“It is a huge privilege to be the stewards of historic estates and historic property, and every day is a new challenge and a new opportunity,” said William. 

Scotland’s Rural Estates at a Crossroads 

Scotland’s rural estates are facing a period of significant change. Challenges including population decline in rural communities, ongoing land reform discussions and the growing impact of climate change are all placing new pressures on estate businesses and land management. 

Yet despite these challenges, rural estates remain a cornerstone of the Scottish economy. 

According to a recent article in The Scotsman, rural estates contribute more than £2.4 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to Scotland’s economy, while supporting assets and businesses worth over £35 billion. The sector also sustains more than 56,000 jobs, driving growth, employment and investment across rural communities.

“Rural estates cover a huge variety of businesses, which have an incredibly significant role in the Scottish economy,” William explained. 

As these pressures continue to evolve, industry leaders agree that protecting and strengthening the rural estate sector has never been more important. 

NextGen Game & Estate Management Discussion 

To explore these issues in greater depth, William Murray will lead the NextGen Game & Estate Management Discussion sponsored by Strutt & Parker on Friday 3 July at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair. Doors open for coffee and pastries from 8.30am and the event starts at 9am.

The session will examine the future of rural estates, land management and sporting businesses, while highlighting the opportunities available to the next generation entering the sector. 

The discussion will provide valuable insights for estate owners, land managers, rural entrepreneurs and anyone with an interest in the future of Scotland’s countryside. 

Shaping the Future of Scotland’s Countryside 

As rural estates adapt to changing economic, environmental and political landscapes, the importance of future-focused leadership has never been greater. 

The NextGen Game & Estate Management Discussion will offer a platform for open conversation, practical solutions and fresh perspectives on how Scotland’s estates can continue to thrive while preserving the heritage, landscapes and communities that make them so important. 

Places are limited, so to reserve your spot please:

Join the conversation at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair and discover how the next generation is helping to shape the future of Scotland’s rural estates.