6 VINEYARDS NEAR BRISTOL THAT YOU CAN VISIT BY TRAIN.
While Bristol might be better known for its vibrant art scene, eclectic music festivals, and as a fabulous city for partying it’s also a gateway to some of the best vineyards in the southwest of England.
With the English wine scene blossoming, there’s never been a better time to explore the vineyards surrounding this lively city. Luckily, many are easily accessible by train, making for the perfect day trip from Bristol. After all, who wants to drive when there’s wine to be sampled!
1. ALDWICK ESTATE, SOMERSET
ABOUT ALDWICK ESTATE:
Aldwick Estate is a gem tucked away in the North Somerset countryside, just a short distance from Bristol. Known for its award-winning still and sparkling wines, Aldwick has become a favorite for those seeking a relaxing escape to the vineyards. The estate combines traditional winemaking with modern sustainability practices, offering a serene vineyard experience.
TOURS & TASTINGS:
Aldwick offers guided vineyard tours, where you’ll explore their vines and production process before tasting their latest releases. Tours are available throughout the year and typically last around 90 mins.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Yatton (approx. 20 minutes), then it’s a 10-minute taxi ride to Aldwick Estate.
2. OATLEY VINEYARD, SOMERSET
ABOUT OATLEY VINEYARD:
Situated in the peaceful Somerset countryside, Oatley Vineyard is a small family-run vineyard producing crisp, aromatic still wines. The vineyard has been in operation for over 30 years and is known for its hands-on, environmentally conscious approach to winemaking. Their elegant whites, made from the Madeleine Angevine grape, are particularly popular.
TOURS & TASTINGS:
Oatley offers informal tours (DIY Tours) where you can wander through the vineyard at your own pace before enjoying a tasting of their wines in the courtyard. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Or, you can also book a private tasting if you want something a little more formal.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Bridgwater (approx. 35 minutes), followed by a 15-minute taxi ride to Oatley Vineyard.
3. QUOINS ORGANIC VINEYARD, WILTSHIRE
ABOUT QUOINS ORGANIC:
Quoins Vineyard is an organic and biodynamic vineyard located near the picturesque town of Bradford-on-Avon in Wiltshire. As one of the few certified organic vineyards in the UK, they produce wines without the use of synthetic chemicals, focusing instead on sustainable practices that benefit both the vines and the environment.
TOURS & TASTINGS:
Quions offer a limited number of tours for visitors throughout the summer. At the moment, these are limited to large groups (minimum 10), so ideal for a hen party or a group day out. Book in advance for £25 per person.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Bradford-on-Avon (approx. 30 minutes). From the station, it’s a 30-40 minute walk to the vineyard.
4. LIMEBURN HILL VINEYARD
ABOUT LIME BURN HILL VINEYARD:
Limeburn Hill is a biodynamic vineyard located just outside of Bristol, making it a perfect option for a quick escape into nature. The vineyard specializes in natural, PetNat wines, all made with minimal intervention.
TOURS & TASTINGS:
Limeburn Hill offers guided tours of their beautiful biodynamic vineyard, where you’ll learn about the biodynamic practices and winemaking process. The tour concludes with a tasting of their natural wines, often served in the picturesque vineyard itself. These tours are available from April to September usually over the weekend. Book in advance as they are popular.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Keynsham (approx. 10 minutes). From there, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride to the vineyard.
5. DUNLEAVY VINEYARD
ABOUT DUNLEAVY VINEYARD:
Dunleavy is a boutique vineyard located just outside of Bristol, known for its award-winning rosé and sparkling wines. It’s a small, female-run vineyard producing high-quality wines from sustainably grown vines. Dunleavy is particularly well known for its lovely setting and dedication to responsible farming.
TOURS & TASTINGS:
While Dunleavy doesn’t offer regular vineyard tours sadly, you can often find them at local wine events or you can buy wine online.
6. FENNY CASTLE VINEYARD
ABOUT FENNY CASTLE VINEYARD:
Found close to Wells in Somerset is Fenny Castle Vineyard. They create a range of still and sparkling wines, including the Gold Medal 2015 Blanc de Noir.
TOURS & TASTINGS:
Fenny Castle offers tours and tastings for £20 per person. These must be booked in advance and you’ll find dates advertised on their website – usually June to October.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Getting there by train is not so easy, but you can take a 55 minute drive to get there. It could also be possible to get a train to New Street (around one hour from Bristol) then take a bus or taxi from there.
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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