Overview
Enclosing the land
Enclosure Acts transformed much of the rural landscape and helped to stimulate agricultural productivity
Landlords and farmers
From the later 19th century parliamentary intervention has steadily improved the position of the tenant farmer
Historic sites
Parliament has established a secure framework of regulations for the protection of the nation's heritage
Modern farming
Modern agriculture has benefited enormously from the protection provided by the 1947 Agriculture Act
Countryside
Popular interest in the countryside in the 20th century has led Parliament to provide rights of access and schemes for conservation
Great Estates
In the 18th century private Acts of Parliament were important in helping landowners to manage and expand their estates