Rebuilding land-based education in Cumbria

Our Rural Business Centre at Penrith provides one place for rural advice, education, training and knowledge transfer.

Find a course to suit you or sign up to hear about new course openings.

What’s happened so far…

  • Governance and our Strategic Plan

    Following the closure of Newton Rigg College in July 2021, we have worked to bring back land-based education in Cumbria, from the ground up.

    With support from many local benefactors we now have a strategic direction and a clear path ahead of us.

    We are now a registered charity and have developed our 5-year strategy. to create a financially sustainable future..

  • The Cumbria Rural Business and Skills Centre

    Based in the Grizedale building on Newton Rigg Estate, just outside Penrith, our centre is a specialist rural facility hosting a range of opportunities to promote positive developments in rural industries and communities.

    Managed by NR Training, our trading arm, the CRBSC offers education and training courses, venue and office space to rent and is home to the Rural Business School.

  • Education and Training Courses

    Our education and training offer is growing rapidly. The School of Horticulture based at Lowther Castle and Gardens, began in September 2021 with students studying practical horticulture and garden design in inspirational surroundings.

    Our livestock management courses have supported industry based students to upskill in dairy and sheep management.

    Our land-based course offer has expanded and includes skills development and health and wellbeing activities.

  • Newton Rigg Equestrian Training and Events

    Newton Rigg Equestrian Training & Events provide equestrian clinics, training courses, spectacular equestrian events - and facility hire for third party events - including show jumping, dressage, in hand showing, mounted archery - and so many more!

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