Ward Hadaway LLP’s rural team draws on specialists across the firm to advise private landowners, farmers, rural businesses and banks on a wide range of countryside matters. The team handles land and estate transactions, agricultural law, subsidies, estate management and more. Stefan Bainbridge leads the team, with extensive experience in rural property and estate sales. Alex Cox supports in property transactions, with particular expertise in mines and minerals. Tom Wills joined the practice in March 2025 and Alison Hall joined in May 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Stefan Bainbridge is easily contactable, very efficient, very diligent but also commercial on arrangements.'
Key clients
- The Banks Group
- Barclays Bank plc
- Canal & River Trust
- Land Trust
- University of Newcastle
- Newcastle International Airport Limited
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Stefan Bainbridge
Other key lawyers
Alex Cox; Alison Hall; Tom Wills