Destination Vineyards in Sussex: Tours, Food and Accommodation

March 18, 2018

We recently visited Oxney Organic Vineyard to stay in one of their farm cottages. I was fascinated by the tour of their vineyard and really impressed with the range of services they offered on the Estate, from themed dining to Glamping breaks in their pretty shepherd huts set right amongst the vines. Our visit led me to wonder how many other vineyards are offering more than just fantastic English wine throughout Sussex? Here’s a taster of what I discovered…

Kingscote Estate, East Grinstead

Set in a beautiful valley between the Bluebell Steam Railway and Weirwood Reservoir Kingscote Estate produces quality white wines on site in the heart of Sussex. They have a shop where you can buy a wide variety of top English sparkling wines as well as their own vintage and artisan food. They also offer the opportunity to enjoy a range of country pursuits including fishing and shooting and a cookery school run by the Kitchen Academy.

Rathfinney Wine Estate, Alfriston

Rathfinny Wine Estate was established in 2010 near Alfriston in the South Downs. Enjoying some of England’s most outstanding natural landscapes the vineyard manages to produce some of the world’s best sparkling wine.

Rathfinney also offers the opportunity to stay on the estate in one of their Flint Barns available for Bed and Breakfast, to hire on an exclusive basis and for functions throughout the year.

However if you’re just looking to visit for the day and maybe take in some of the incredible views it might be worth exploring the Rathfinney Trail allowing walkers the chance to enjoy the grassland, woodlands and vineyard itself.

Bolney Wine Estate, Hayward’s Heath

Bolney is one of the longest established English vineyards and have been making award winning English wines at their estate for over 35 years. Their site includes the 18 Acre Cafe where they serve delicious breakfasts and lunches featuring local produce to indulge your appetite. On warm days you can relax on the stunning viewing balcony looking out across the vineyards and local countryside.

There is also a free vineyard trail for families. Find all eight signs and learn about the wildlife at Bolney and about the vines and grapes. Children can complete a fun activity sheet as they complete the trail in order to claim a prize back at the Café!

Charles Palmer Vineyard, Winchelsea

Situated just outside the historic Cinque Port town of Winchelsea, this award winning vineyard and 16th century farmhouse offer the perfect opportunity to escape and gain an insight into the art of wine making.

They offer Guided tours to the vineyard and winery making sure there is time to taste their award winning wines back at the farm house.

Visitors can stay in their stunning 16th century farmhouse B&B at Wickham Manor. The beautiful property is steeped in history and was recently used in Sherlock Holmes movie starring Ian McKellen.

Carr Taylor Vineyard, Westfield Village, Near Hastings

This 21 acre farm site near Hastings was established back in 1971 when the owners converted part of the farm buildings into a house with the rest eventually became the winery, shop and bonded warehouse.

They offer guided tours for just £1.50 where guests are welcome to enjoy the trails for as long as they like. The trail takes you through the winery and bottling room, and includes a brief history of the vineyard and our wine making methods. There’s also an on site shop and cafe where visitors can enjoy a refreshing cup of tea or coffee and a delicious slice of cake. And of course, there will also be the opportunity to taste the wines, which is what they’re all about after all.

Please check out winecellardoor.co.uk for more vineyard inspiration right across the UK.

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