Example estate management dissertation topic 6:

Estate diversification – from stag hunting to stag parties.

Tracing the diversification of country estates over the last twenty years, this dissertation not only evaluates the success of such schemes as ‘corporate clay pigeon shooting’ and ‘wine and dine’ weekends, but also seeks to ask what future plans does the industry hold. Mindful of the need to achieve a balance between the private needs of the family and those of securing the financial viabilities of a number of estates, this dissertation provides a ‘snap shot’ of business practices presently used upon three estates within Gloucestershire and seeks to proffer a series of suggestions as to how the present models can be further diversified.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Leask, A., Fyall, A. and Garrod, B. (2002). ‘Heritage visitor attractions: Managing revenue in the new millennium’. International Journal of Heritage Studies, vol. 8(3), pp. 247-265.
• Wightman, A. and Higgins, P. (2000). ‘Sporting estates and the recreational economy in the Highlands and islands of Scotland’. Scottish Affairs, vol. 31, pp. 18-36.
• Williams, B.C. and Bradlaw, C.S. (2001). ‘An economy of country houses’. International Journal of Heritage Studies, vol. 7(3), pp. 273-293.