The group received a warm welcome at the Raynham Estate, where they enjoyed an insightful tour showcasing the estate’s diverse farming practices. The visit concluded with a delicious lunch featuring Raynham’s own beef.
In the afternoon, delegates toured the British Sugar factory at Wissington, gaining a closer look at one of the region’s leading agri-food facilities. The day ended with an excellent supper at The Guinness Arms, providing a fitting close to a productive first day.
International connection
On Wednesday morning, the group continued their visit with a comprehensive farm tour at Elveden. Highlights included a look at the estate’s impressive new reservoir and state-of-the-art potato stores. With lots of discussions around agricultural policy, grants, and trade, the Idaho delegates got a realistic insight into the current feeling within the UK's agricultural industry.
The group visited Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses, to see a traditional family farm, and one of the few remaining dairies in Suffolk. The delegates were particularly impressed with how they can deliver food straight to the consumer, through farm shops and stalls, which isn’t as practical in Idaho with their vast desert-like areas. We finished the tour at Boxford (Suffolk) Farms, looking at their apple production, where we discussed labour challenges, and the relationship with supermarkets.
A huge thank you goes to all our hosts for their generosity and hospitality throughout the visit. The event offered valuable opportunities for international connection, knowledge exchange, and strengthening our agricultural trade relationships – as well as an enjoyable two days for everyone involved.
