WHAT TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT VINEYARDS IN ENGLAND AND WHAT TO WEAR.
England’s flourishing wine industry offers some of the most scenic and immersive vineyard experiences in the world, particularly for wine enthusiasts eager to explore the rolling hills, picturesque estates, and tasting rooms.
Visiting a vineyard in England can be magical, but the experience changes with the seasons. Whether you’re looking to witness the grape harvest, enjoy the lush green vines of summer, or cozy up with mulled wine in the winter, the right time to visit can enhance your overall adventure.
This guide will walk you through the different seasons at English vineyards, highlighting when to visit for the best experience and which vineyards are perfect for each season. Plus, we’ll cover what to wear to ensure you’re comfortable while you sip wine amidst the vines.
When is the best time to visit English vineyards?
When I first started visiting vineyards in England, I thought the best time to visit vineyards in England would be summer. And, it is true that summer is the most popular time to visit a vineyard in England. But, it isn’t necessarily the best or only time you can do it.
Summer in English vineyards is idyllic – there’s a chance to bask in the sun (albeit sometimes a slim chance) and savour cold Bacchus on a terrace. In summer you’ll find fun events, like yoga in the vines, concerts and food trucks. Indeed, many of the smaller vineyards in England are only open during summer months.
That said, more vineyards are starting to open earlier and stay open later into the year, sometimes April through to October. This means you have a chance to visit in spring and autumn. And, some of the larger vineyards – like Chapel Down, Gusbourne and the like, are open all year round.
Read on to find out more about when is the best time to visit English vineyards.
Visiting English vineyards in spring
Spring: A Fresh Start in the Vineyards (March to May)
Spring is a time of renewal in the vineyards. After the dormant winter months, buds begin to form on the vines, and the landscape bursts into life. This is an exciting time to visit if you’re interested in viticulture as the winemaking process begins with bud break.
Vineyard tours during this period often focus on the early stages of grape growing, with a chance to learn more about the hard work that goes into managing the vines for a successful harvest.
Vineyards to visit in England in spring
Ridgeview (East Sussex): Ridgeview’s sprawling vineyard begins to green in spring, offering guests an ideal time for tours and tastings. Their vineyard tour includes insights into English sparkling wine production, with tastings indoors. The Rows & Vine restaurant can also offer welcome respite indoors if the weather isn’t looking too clever. // Find out more about Ridgeview here.
Ashling Park (Sussex): Ashling Park is an ideal place to visit in spring, as they have a beautiful glass fronted cafe/ restaurant overlooking the vines. Come rain or shine, you can sample wine with a view. I love their tag line “Think Napa Valley but with a twist of the English Countryside”. // Find out more and book to visit Ashling Park here.
What to wear to visit an English vineyard in spring
Spring weather can be unpredictable, with mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C. It’s best to wear layers—think a light sweater, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes. A scarf and hat can also come in handy on breezy days.
Visiting English vineyards in summer
Summer: Full Vines and Warm Days (June to August)
Summer is the most popular time to visit English vineyards. The vines are lush and full of green leaves, creating stunning landscapes ideal for leisurely walks through the vineyards. This season is also when many vineyards hold outdoor events such as wine tastings, picnics, and concerts.
You’ll have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of wines, often in the vineyard’s outdoor spaces.
Vineyards to visit in England in summer
Denbies Wine Estate (Surrey): One of England’s largest wine producers, Denbies is an excellent choice for a summer visit. Their vast estate offers tours, tastings, and scenic train rides through the vineyard, all while you enjoy the sunshine. I can imagine that their Bacchus Fizz would be a delight to sample in the hills of Surrey. // Find out more and book to visit Denbies here.
Balfour Winery (Kent): Set on the beautiful Hush Heath Estate, Balfour offers a mix of guided vineyard walks and tastings. In the summer, you can relax on their outdoor terrace – total escapism and yet so close to London. // Find out more about Balfour winery here.
What to wear to visit an English vineyard in summer
In summer, temperatures can range from 18°C to 25°C. Dress for comfort and a bit of fun —light layers like a cotton shirt and breathable trousers are ideal, or a summer dress for ladies (maybe with a cardi or jacket for later in the day.)
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are must-haves on hot days for protecting against the sun while strolling through the vineyards. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended, as vineyard tours often involve walking over uneven ground.
Visiting English vineyards in autumn
Autumn: Harvest Time (September to November)
Autumn is arguably the most exciting time to visit a vineyard, as it marks the beginning of the grape harvest. The vines are heavy with fruit, and there’s a palpable buzz in the air as workers pick grapes and prepare for winemaking.
Many vineyards offer special harvest tours or allow guests to participate in grape picking, giving you a hands-on experience of the winemaking process.
Vineyards to visit in England in Autumn
Yotes Court (Kent): This is one of my favourite vineyards and a bit of an unsung venue – a gorgeous place in Kent with stunning views over the hills. And, their wine is a delight too. Every year, Yotes Court host a popular harvest event. Included in your ticket is the chance to pick wine and enjoy a lunch with other volunteers. // Find out more and book to visit Yotes Court here.
Hambledon Vineyard (Hampshire): Hambledon Vineyard offer a few different fun harvest events, but without having to get your hands dirty. You can either join special harvest tastings, or a unique harvest vineyard safari. // Find out more and book here.
What to wear in English vineyards in autumn
Autumn temperatures can vary, ranging from 10°C to 18°C, so bring layers. A cozy sweater, waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking boots are ideal, as you may be walking through damp vineyard rows. Bringing an umbrella or a hat to guard against rain is also advisable.
Visiting English vineyards in winter
Winter: Cozy Wine Tastings (December to February)
Winter might seem like an unusual time to visit a vineyard, but it has its own charm. The vines may be dormant, but many vineyards open their cozy tasting rooms, offering festive wine events and winter-themed tours. It’s a quieter time in the vineyards, ideal for those who prefer a more peaceful, reflective experience. Many vineyards also host special Christmas and New Year events.
Vineyards to visit in England in winter
Mount Vineyard (Kent): Mount Vineyard for me is a bit of a sneaky secret. It is super close to London and an all year round destination. There’s a restaurant with tasting room, which has a retractable roof – idyllic in summer, or cozy in winter. They also serve delicious sourdough pizzas alongside the wine. // Find out more and book to visit Mount Vineyard here.
Gusbourne Vineyard (Kent): For a bit of an extravagant treat over the cold winter period, consider Gusbourne Vineyard. They offer winter tours, and you can get super hygge in their aptly named restaurant and tasting room “The Nest.” // Find out more and book with Gusbourne here.
What to wear in an English vineyard in winter
Winter temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C, so dressing warmly is essential. A thermal base layer, a thick woolen sweater, and a winter coat are must-haves. Pair this with a scarf, gloves, and a hat to keep warm, especially if you’ll be spending time outside.
Waterproof boots are also recommended to handle any wet or snowy conditions if you plan to wander around the vineyard. Of course, if you’re indoors in a restaurant – don’t worry about footwear too much!
Special Events and Seasonal Offers
Many vineyards offer special events and discounts tied to the seasons. Keep an eye on their event calendars for harvest festivals, winter wine dinners, and springtime celebrations.
- Harvest Festivals: Typically held in late September and October, harvest festivals at vineyards allow guests to participate in grape picking, attend wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food.
- Winter Wine Dinners: Many vineyards host festive dinners around Christmas and New Year. These events often feature wine pairings with locally-sourced dishes, offering a fantastic way to celebrate the holidays.
You can find out more about some of the bigger wine events in 2024 here, but it’s always good to keep an eye out on your fave vineyard’s website.
Making the Most of Your Seasonal Vineyard Visit
Regardless of when you visit, there are a few tips that can enhance your vineyard experience:
- Book Tours in Advance: Some vineyards, especially the more popular ones like Chapel Down, require advance booking, particularly during the harvest season.
- Join a Wine Club: If you fall in love with the wines you taste, consider joining a vineyard’s wine club. Many offer discounts on bottles, invitations to exclusive events, and early access to new releases.
- Bring a Picnic: Some vineyards, especially in the summer, allow you to bring your own picnic to enjoy alongside their wines. Just be sure to check the vineyard’s policy before arriving.
- Pack a Bag for Wine Purchases: After your tastings, you may want to bring a few bottles home. Pack an insulated bag or wine carrier to safely transport your new favorites.
Where to next?
A few of my favourite things
Looking for a gift for yourself or a wine lover in your life? Here are a few of my favourite English Wine things.
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