Brexit will have significant effects on rural areas of the UK – the loss of EU funds will not only require new thinking in relation to agricultural and environmental policy but also for broader rural businesses, communities and services. What national policies for each of the devolved territories should replace these after Brexit? Could this offer an opportunity to introduce better rural policies, suited to 21st Century rural potentials and challenges?  In our blog Duke of Northumberland Professor of Rural Economy Sally Shortall and Professor Mark Shucksmith, Director of the Newcastle University Institute for Social Renewal consider the issues raised at our recent panel discussion.