CLA Cymru's highlights from the Royal Welsh Show 2026

Throughout the four-day show CLA Cymru welcomed over 300 members and guests at events providing expert advice, panel discussions and informal networking. We also met with over 20 Members of Parliament and the Senedd, and you can read more about our political engagement below.

On Tuesday morning, CLA Cymru hosted the 'Moneywise' breakfast discussion thanks to RBC Brewin Dolphin. The panel - which included representatives from NatWest, RBC Brewin Dolphin, Michelmores and CLA Finance - discussed how members can survive and thrive in an uncertain financial environment. The audience had the opportunity to ask questions with the panel emphasising the importance of building relationships with trusted advisers and how business confidence is returning to the rural sector.

24 hours later, CLA Cymru welcomed members back for a 'Landwise' breakfast panel debating the potential for members to boost their income through tree planting, with a focus on incentives set by the Sustainable Farming Scheme. Representatives from Bronwin and Abbey, Strutt and Parker, Stump up for Trees and Wood Knowledge Wales highlighted how trees can deliver benefits earlier than many expect. For example, trees can complement farm activity by providing shelter from heat for livestock.

On Tuesday morning, our 'Heir of the Dog' session discussed how to begin the conversation on succession planning. RBC Brewin Dolphin and CARA Wales advised members on the importance of starting the conversation early and considering financial alternatives such as pensions and life insurance.

CLA Cymru was proud to host Mary Smith - senior lawyer at New South Law - throughout the show. On Tuesday afternoon, she updated members on the Barstow, CPRW and the Land Justice Coalition v Green Generation Energy Networks Cymru legal case in which she acted on behalf of landowners. She explained the implications of the case for the law on compulsory purchase, detailing how landowners are entitled to specific notice 48 hours in advance of agents accessing land to conduct surveys. More information on the case can be found below.

The following day Roger Parry & Partners entered the marquee for their annual event advising members on the potential and practicalities of diversification. They discussed the benefits of creating a Permitted Development Right for farm buildings and the future of the proposed Glyndwr National Park in north Wales.

On Monday evening CLA Cymru launched its Business Branch at a drinks reception on the showground. The Business Branch will provide an opportunity for leading businesses serving the Welsh rural economy to connect and learn. Members can look forward to workshops, networking events and more which will be publicised on our events page.

As the show coincided with farm safety week, it was our pleasure to host RABI, the farmer's charity, for the Welsh launch of their FarmersAid app. It provides clear, step-by-step guidance for the 10 most common serious on-farm accidents. The app is available to download for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Throughout the week, members enjoyed using the CLA Cymru marquee and facilities as a place to network over lunch or a drink. The Two Toms' singing performance on Monday afternoon was particularly memorable, with members joining in renditions of both English and Welsh language music.

CLA Cymru looks forward to more discussions with members throughout the show season.