What’s On At The Yorkshire Farming Conference 2026 With James Rebanks And Rachel Coates?

Farming can feel like a lonely job at times. Long hours, unpredictable weather and plenty of solo work are all part of the deal. But farming is also rooted in community, and that spirit is exactly what the first ever Yorkshire Farming Conference aims to celebrate. Organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, the event takes place in Harrogate on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, and it promises to be a landmark day for everyone involved in agriculture.

It is designed not just for experienced farmers but for anyone working in the farming world. From new government policies to understanding your place in the food supply chain, the conference is all about connection, learning and shared progress.

More than just a farming get together

This is not your standard conference. The focus is on bringing people together in a meaningful and inspiring way. It is the first event that unites all the networks supported by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, including the Future Farmers of Yorkshire, the Women in Farming Network and the Farmer Scientist Network.

Each group provides support across different areas of the industry. This conference is a rare opportunity for all of them to come together under one roof. Attendees can expect workshops, discussions and sessions that highlight collaboration, community and shared success. It is a celebration of what makes Yorkshire farming special across generations.

A look behind the scenes of showing

One of the most anticipated sessions is Behind the Scenes of Showing, hosted by dairy farmer and Great Yorkshire Show Director Rachel Coates. This session is organised by the Women in Farming Network and offers a fascinating look into the world of agricultural showing.

Rachel Coates will be joined by:

• Anna Pennell – a serial show winner
• Ashleigh Fenwick – a respected showing judge

They will discuss everything from preparation and presentation to what judges really look for. But the heart of the session lies in the strong camaraderie built on the showing circuit.

Rachel explains it perfectly:

“Showing has always been a huge part of my life. Beyond the benefits of enhancing the reputation of your stock by picking up a prized rosette, there is an amazing camaraderie that bonds show people. The friendships you make in the livestock rings, sheds and pens are testament to the strength of community that continues to exist in farming, generation after generation.”

It is a celebration of skill, tradition and community spirit.

Getting a leg up with mentorship

Starting a farming career is not easy. That is why the Mentorship and Momentum session is so valuable. It focuses on how collaboration and guidance can help people build confidence and move forward in their careers.

The panel includes:

• Stephen Frankland – a first generation farmer
• Megan Hall – a farm administrator
• Helen Wyman – Nuffield Farming Scholar and CEO of conference sponsor TwoCan

They will share their personal journeys and discuss how mentorship strengthens the wider farming community. Passing knowledge between generations is vital, and this session encourages exactly that.

The star studded speaker list

The event features an impressive lineup of respected names from across the farming world. The keynote speaker is farmer and bestselling author James Rebanks, whose work has inspired readers far beyond the agricultural community.

Other speakers include:

• Guy Poskitt – leading Yorkshire arable farmer
• Richard Barker – Lingy Moor Farming Ltd
• Mike Powley – advocate for regenerative farming
• Graham Potter – W Potter and Sons
• James Young – Vice President of Agriculture at McCain Foods
• Professor Jonathan Statham – Chair of Bishopton Veterinary Group
• Anna Jones – Founder of Just Farmers
• Olivia Midgley – Editorial Director of Farmers Guardian

This broad mix ensures the conference covers every corner of the agricultural sector.

The nitty gritty: tickets and details

The Yorkshire Farming Conference runs from 9am to 5pm on 28 January 2026 at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre in Harrogate. Alongside talks and workshops, there will be a trade show for browsing and networking.

Attendees can also claim BASIS and NRoSO points, making it an excellent option for professional development.

Tickets must be bought online in advance. Prices are £25 + VAT, with discounts available for group bookings of ten or more. For a full day of ideas, inspiration and industry insight, it is exceptional value.

This conference is set to become a key date in the agricultural calendar and a brilliant opportunity for Yorkshire’s farming community to come together, share experiences and shape the year ahead.