West Country Land Auctions Continue to Defy Expectations
Demand for agricultural and amenity land across the West Country remains remarkably resilient, with buyers continuing to compete strongly for everything from small paddocks and woodland parcels to redevelopment opportunities and rural homes. The latest auction results from Symonds & Sampson highlight how well-positioned land and lifestyle properties are still attracting determined bidding, despite wider market uncertainty. From local farmers looking to expand, to lifestyle buyers and investors seeking long-term value, appetite for rural property across Dorset and Somerset shows little sign of slowing.
Symonds & Sampson’s property auction on 21 May highlighted the strong demand for agricultural land of all sizes throughout Dorset and Somerset.
Senior Partner and Auctioneer Mark Lewis commented, “Many people have been predicting a gentle fall in land prices but, as long as land is held in regions where there are progressive and acquisitive farmers, the demand is keeping values strong.
“It was also good to see some private developers with the heart to buy properties to renovate or rebuild, and this was heartening when so many larger builders are more reticent.”
Auction Partner Meredith Wallis added, “There is still good interest in smaller parcels of land, and four garage sites offered across East and South Dorset attracted buyers from far and wide.”
Notable prices include:
- Garage blocks in Weymouth and Corfe Castle sold for 40-51% above guide
- Parcels of woodland sold at £16,000-£20,000 per acre
- Parcels of land near Crewkerne and Somerton sold at £12,000 and £10,000 per acre, respectively
- A bungalow with stables and 7 acres near Sherborne sold for £788,000 - 21% above guide
- 2.7 acres of permanent pasture with stables at Marnhull sold for 212% above guide
If you are considering selling land or property in Dorset or Somerset, an auction could provide a fast and secure route to sale. If you would like to explore whether your property may be suitable for auction, you can request a free, no-obligation auction appraisal from a local auction specialist.