South East England Development Agency (SEEDA)

More than 23 per cent of all businesses in the region are based in rural areas; small rural towns, villages and the countryside. Less than half of these businesses are engaged in farming.

The region has six Business Link outlets. They also run a Farm Business Advisory Service. These experienced advisers can bring in-depth knowledge and up-to-date information.

Tourism

Tourism is a major mainstay of the rural economy. The countryside has many attractions for visitors. Small rural towns, rural pubs, restaurants, seaside resorts, heritage sites and famous gardens are all there to welcome you.

Related links

Information on advice to rural businesses

• www.businesslink.gov.uk/berkshire for businesses in Berkshire
• www.businesslinkwessex.co.uk for businesses in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight
• www.businesslinkkent.co.uk for businesses in Kent and Medway
• www.businesslinksolutions.co.uk for businesses on Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes
• www.businesslink.gov.uk/surrey for businesses in Surrey
• wwwbusinesslinksussex.co.uk for businesses in East and West Sussex

• The National Farmers Union - organisation representing farmers and growers
• Federation of Small Businesses
• British Chambers of Commerce

Advice and counselling for farmers

Many farmers are facing problems due to the changes affecting the farming industry.

There are several organisations that can offer help, advice and counselling.

• The Arthur Rank Centre
  Practical support for farmers
• Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institute
  Financial assistance
• Rural Stress Information Network (RSIN)
  General advice and guidance

Tourism-related web sites which provide a wealth of information:

• Tourism South East - the official tourist board for the South East Region
• National Trust
  Information on the National Trust properties
• English Heritage
  Information on English Heritage properties 'Spring openings and advice'
• English Tourism Council
  Information for the whole of England
• British Horse Society
  Information on horse riding
• CTC
  Information on cycling

Information on Walking

• Ramblers Association
• Institute of Public Rights of Way
  Gives information by county
• National Trails:
  Four national trails cross the region
  - The Thames Path
  - The North Downs Way
  - The South Downs Way
  - The Ridgeway
• Regional Trails
  For information on walking (including long-distance paths) in East Sussex, Hampshire,
  Kent, Surrey and West Sussex

Information on forestry sites, bird reserves and waterways:

• Forestry Commission
• RSPB
• British Waterways

SEEDA is not responsible for the content of external websites.