Managing and owning the landscape
Parliament has been fundamental to change and development in the countryside in modern times.
In the 18th century legislation assisted landowners in running and expanding their estates, while enclosure Acts dramatically changed the nature of farming.
During the later 19th and 20th centuries legislation gradually improved the situation of the tenant-farmer and of agriculture generally.
Since the Second World War legislation has covered the protection of the countryside and access to it.
The Parliamentary Archives and The Keep worked with a college group to explore the life and career of Tufton Beamish. Find out more about this project here.
Follow the landmark items of legislation through which Parliament has introduced major changes in the countryside
In the early 21st century Parliament continues to take a close interest in the countryside, for example, the status of village greens
Reference sources for more in-depth research into how Parliament has brought change and improvement to Britain's countryside
Find out how Parliament has helped to shape modern agriculture and extend public access to the countryside