WHAT MAKES A GOOD VINEYARD EXPERIENCE. 13 THINGS I LOVE WHEN I VISIT A VINEYARD & WHERE YOU CAN FIND IT IN ENGLAND.
When you think of a vineyard visit, it’s not just about tasting a glass of wine – it’s about the whole experience. A good vineyard should transport you to a different place, with an atmosphere that makes you feel relaxed, indulged, and welcomed. But what exactly makes a great vineyard experience?
Well, here’s my list of 13 things I love, along with a few places in England where you can find them.
1/ Engaging & knowledgeable workforce
A friendly, passionate team can make all the difference. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re being given a rehearsed script. The best vineyards have staff who genuinely love what they do and can answer all your questions, whether it’s about the winemaking process, the grape varieties, or even just the best wine to take home for a special occasion.
Find it at Yotes Court – a gorgeous vineyard in Kent, with only a few staff, who are super friendly and knowledgeable.
2/ Welcoming & unpretentious
Some wineries can feel a little too polished, almost intimidating. Biddenden in Kent, one of England’s oldest vineyards, is the opposite – a family-run spot where everyone is treated well, no matter how good or bad your wine knowledge is. No fuss, no pretense, just great wine and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to linger.
3/ Feels like a treat
A vineyard visit should feel indulgent – like a little escape from the everyday. One vineyard that comes to mind is Tillingham Vineyard in Sussex. The decor is wonderful and they’ve really thought about the vibe. I felt like I’d been on a holiday after just a few hours there.
4/ Attention to detail
A vineyard with attention to detail will often be reflected in its carefully curated tasting experiences, beautifully presented wines, and thoughtful surroundings.
Rathfinny Estate in Sussex does a fantastic job in this department – from the exceptional wine presentation to the sleek, modern tasting room. It’s a perfect example of how small details add up to a big impact on the overall experience.
5/ Generous tastings
There’s nothing worse than a stingy tasting session. You want to properly experience the wines, not just sip and be done.
Now, I don’t mean to keep banging on about Tillingham, but I was so happy with the tasting experience when I visited recently. Let’s just say, I was glad I wasn’t driving!
6/ Working vineyards/ wineries
A visit feels more special when you can see the winemaking process happening around you. Three Choirs Vineyard in Gloucestershire provides a real behind-the-scenes look at English winemaking, with the vines, winery, and even accommodation all in one place, giving visitors a genuine feel for the craft.
7/ Unique offers
A good vineyard experience should offer something a little different. Thankfully, there are loads of vineyards across the UK that are pushing boundaries and bring something new and unique to their visitor experience. From Yoga in the Vines (Balfour Winery) to Friday night music nights
One that comes to mind for me, is Oxney in Sussex. Not only is the vineyard unique as a completely organic estate, but they offer a tour and tasting with a picnic, which is a little different to the norm.
8/ No time pressure
There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re on a schedule. A good vineyard experience lets you take your time.
For me, I think Hush Heath Estate (Balfour) in Kent is one of the best when it comes to allowing you to fully relax. The fabulous terrace is so spacious that you can sit back, relax and spend hours on end drinking wine and looking out to the vines.
9/ Easy to get to
One of the issues with visiting vineyards in England, is that many of them aren’t well connected to public transport. Meaning, somebody has to drive!
There are however, some exceptions. One of the easiest to get to, especially from London is Mount Vineyard in Shoreham. A short hop in the train and then a couple of minutes walk from the train station. Dreamy.
Find my guide to the best vineyards you can get to on train from London.
10/ A sense of escapism
A vineyard visit should transport you – make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world. Thankfully, there are so many fabulous vineyards in the UK that are surrounded by rolling hills and glorious scenery.
My top choices for vineyards that offer a sense of escapism are Camel Valley in Cornwall, Cottonworth in Hampshire, Kingscote Vineyard in Sussex and finally Birchenden in Kent. Bonus points for Birchenden, because you can take the spa valley railway to get there.
11/ Great food choices
If I visit a vineyard, ideally I want to spend a while there. And, if I’m spending more than a few hours, I’m probably going to get hungry! The best vineyards, in my opinion, have some sort of food offering.
When it comes to food, Gusbourne in Kent is a great example. Especially if you’re looking for a formal dining experience. For something more relaxed, Squerrys, also in Kent, has recently opened a tasting room which serves small plates. And, many vineyards offer pop up food events, like pizza trucks. Absolute win!
12/ Dog friendly
If you’re anything like me, you love taking your dog wherever possible. A vineyard that welcomes dogs always gets bonus points.
Three Choirs welcomes dogs, and allows them to walk with you on the trails around the vines. Rathfinny also has a 5km walking loop for you and your pooch.
Find out more about dog friendly vineyards in the UK here.
13/ Walking trails & self-guided tours
Some of the best vineyards offer trails where you can explore the estate at your own pace. I love this option because it feels less rushed and more active. One of the best is New Hall Vineyard in the Crouch Valley (Essex), which has a vineyard trail with a lovely map, making it fun for all the family.
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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