Howard

The UK's heritage rotavator brand

For a generation of British growers, "rotavator" and "Howard" meant the same thing. Founded by Arthur Clifford Howard, whose rotary hoe design effectively created the category, Howard's machines — the Gem, 350, 700 and the smaller Bantam — turned over allotments and market gardens across the country for decades.

Howard is now part of Kongskilde, and the classic models are bought and sold on the used market rather than made new. They remain sought-after for one simple reason: built right and looked after, they keep working. Parts and specialist knowledge are still around, which is exactly what you should check before buying a used example.

Thinking of buying a used Howard? Read our heritage buying guide first — condition, parts availability and a sensible price range matter more than the model badge.