Christmas Message from David Buchler, Chair, and Robert Fedder, Interim CEO of Dartington Trust

While the late, great Ian Dury sang of Reasons To Be Cheerful, Part Three, you’ll be relieved to know we won’t be performing this song as part of our third Christmas message since our turnaround began. But the sentiment rings true: there is indeed much to celebrate as we approach the end of 2025 and we find ourselves reflecting on another year of profound and positive change for Dartington.

This year has been especially significant as we marked Dartington’s Centenary—100 years since the Elmhirst family began their visionary work here in arts, education, and sustainable land stewardship. We honoured this legacy not just in reflection, but in action, most notably with the opening of our new Heritage Centre.

The results of our renewed focus are clear. Visitor numbers to the Estate have risen sharply, increasing fourfold over two years. New business tenants have lifted commercial occupancy to over 95%, with some 200 tenant organisations now employing more than 1,000 people on site. Our community of Dartington Trust members has also grown steadily to more than 2,800. This growing vitality is the greatest tribute to our first century.

Financially, our strategy is building the long-term sustainability the Trust requires. Our ‘landlord model’ now generates dependable revenue, forming the majority of our income. This is carefully supplemented by a full cost-recovery approach to our core activities. By partnering with expert external tenants—who deliver first-class cafes, a gym, an indoor golf experience, the excellent Redwood River School, and How Now’s outstanding farm—we can offer more to visitors while ensuring operational resilience.

This model turns the page on the year with the revitalised Cider Press Centre, now a vibrant curated hub for food, drink, art, and lifestyle, supported by two hours of free parking. It symbolises our forward momentum.

None of this progress would be possible without the dedication of our staff and volunteers, or the steadfast support of our community. The turnaround team has made continued strides in reducing losses and mapping a clear path to breakeven. Feedback confirms that this necessary, though sometimes challenging, transformation is bearing fruit and securing Dartington’s future. We are building new relationships that make the Trust more resilient for its second century.

We look forward to sharing more detailed plans and announcements in the new year. Until then, we extend our sincerest thanks for your critical support. Wishing you and your families a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

With best wishes,

David Buchler | Chair
Robert Fedder | Interim CEO

Dartington Trust
December 2025