A form of landholding where the tenant held a recognised estate in land with greater rights than customary tenure.
Freehold was a form of landholding in which a person held an estate in land recognised by law.
Freeholders generally enjoyed greater security and independence than customary tenants, although they could still owe certain obligations depending on the nature of their holding.
Unlike copyhold tenants, freeholders did not rely upon a copy of a manorial court entry as evidence of their title. Their rights were based upon free tenure recognised by law.
The distinction between freehold and customary tenure was an important feature of the manorial system.
See also:
Copyhold
Customary Tenant
Tenant
Tenure
