[macgro7]

I was browsing through rightmove and came across a property described as a smallholding with 785 acres of land 

I suppose they mean the land is not suitable for commercial farming but if you have a dozen sheep or goats you would do great with this property - you can take them for walks for miles and miles every morning and you won't see anyone around - perhaps some deer and... midges 
Have a look:
https://www.rightmove.co.uk/commercial-property-for-sale/property-83381261.html

[Anke]

Oh, and they want a cool million for it - not even a house, but just a building plot?

[macgro7]

Well there is a house on it. Small but livable. You can see it on pictures and description

[arobwk]

Well, I reckon TAS members should crowd-fund the purchase.  We can work out the contractual details later surely ! 

[Womble]

Location, Location, Location!

[Collieman]

I thought that the definition of a smallholding was under 50 Acres, above that it's a farm.

Luke

[macgro7]

I thought that the definition of a smallholding was under 50 Acres, above that it's a farm.

Luke

Thats what I used to think.
But... apparently its more of a philosophical question - I am a smallholder? A lifestyle choice rather. There are "smallholders" or homesteads who do it on hundreds of acres. And ther are commercisl farmers on relatively small acreage.
There is no bounding definition of difference between farm and smallholding. In many countries 3 hecrares  (7 acres?) is regarded as a large farm!

This specific land in Scotland is not suitable for commercial farming thats why its being advertise as "smallholding" - its obviously not small  but its a holding lol

[SallyintNorth]

One of my fave definitions is how you move your sheep. 

Chase 'em with a quad and / or dog, you're a farmer.

Call 'em, you're a smallholder.

 

Imperfect, I know, but I enjoy it.  And it reminds me of a funny incident from a 2-day course I did many moons ago.  It was run by the local farm veterinary practice and it was called "Ruminant Health for Smallholders".  I still use things I was taught on that course, it was bloomin' good.  Anyway, the second day was practical, and we went to a smallholding to handle sheep and cattle.  We did the cattle first, all went well (except the intelligent Red Devon cow we were using learned that everyone wanted to pull her tongue out of her mouth so by the end was just flopping it out for you before you even touched her .)  Then onto the sheep.  First we had to get them in out of the field.  The smallholder went off with one group and the vet took my group.  No dog, we were directed to get behind the sheep and drive them.  Well, no such luck, the dang things kept getting behind us!  Of course they were used to being led in, they had no concept of being driven.  One of the other participants pointed this out, very red-faced vet  .  Soon as we reversed the operation and all just walked out of the field, the sheep just followed us like... well, like lambs!    

[macgro7]

I like your definition