As a Kent girl through and through, I’ll always have a soft spot for the vineyards on my side of the county line. But if I had to pick a rival, it would be East Sussex. With its rolling hills, chalky soils, and a wealth of passionate winemakers, East Sussex has become one of the most exciting areas for English wine. Many of the vineyards here welcome visitors for tours and tastings, making it easy to turn a day out—or even a weekend—into a wine-filled adventure.
Here are ten vineyards in East Sussex not to miss. Some are personal favourites of mine, while others are firmly on my list for a future visit.
1. Oxney Organic Estate (near Rye)
Oxney is the UK’s largest single-estate organic vineyard, and it has a special feel from the moment you arrive. The atmosphere is classy yet relaxed, making it the sort of place you could happily come to celebrate an occasion—without it ever feeling stuffy.
Elegant, understated, and quietly confident, Oxney’s sparkling wines are some of the best in the county. Tours and tastings are available year-round, and you can also book a stay in one of their converted barns or shepherd’s huts for the full countryside experience.
Find out more and book to visit Oxney Organic Estate here.
2. Court Garden Vineyard (Ditchling)
A true Sussex pioneer, Court Garden has been producing sparkling wines since the early 2000s. The vineyard is family-run, and tours are hands-on and informative. You’ll get to try a generous selection of wines, including traditional method sparkling and some very good still wines. It’s a great option if you’re combining a vineyard visit with a trip to Brighton, just a short drive away. Don’t forget to try their Vermouth when you visit. Details for tours and tastings on the Court Garden Website.
3. Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard (Sedlescombe)
One of the oldest organic vineyards in the UK, Sedlescombe has been running since the 1970s. They offer a wide selection of organic and biodynamic wines, with tours and tastings available daily. The estate also has a strong eco-focus, making it a good pick if sustainability is high on your list.
4. Rathfinny Wine Estate (Alfriston)
One of the largest and most celebrated vineyards in England, Rathfinny produces premium sparkling wines that rival Champagne. The estate is beautifully set in the South Downs, with wide skies and peaceful views. You can book a tour, tasting, or a meal at the Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, The Tasting Room. Rathfinny also offers luxury accommodation at their Flint Barns—perfect if you want to make a weekend of it.
5. Breaky Bottom (near Lewes)
Tucked away in a secluded valley, Breaky Bottom is one of the most characterful vineyards in East Sussex. It’s a small, family-run estate with an impressive track record of producing award-winning sparkling wines. Visits here are by appointment only, which keeps the experience personal and intimate. If you like discovering hidden gems, this is one for the list. Get in touch to arrange a visit.
6. Tillingham (Peasmarsh, near Rye)
If you’re looking for a vineyard where you can linger all day—or even all weekend—Tillingham is the one. This progressive, biodynamic vineyard sits on a hilltop with sweeping views over the countryside and down to Rye. There are two excellent restaurants on-site, a natural wine bar, and plenty of walking routes nearby. The tours are a lot of fun, with a focus on low-intervention winemaking and sustainability. Come for a glass, stay for the pizza, and then check in to one of the stylish rooms upstairs.
Find out more and book to visit Tillingham here.
7. Bluebell Vineyard Estates (Uckfield)
Named after the carpets of bluebells that bloom in spring, this vineyard is as pretty as it sounds. Bluebell is best known for its range of sparkling wines, but they also produce some excellent stills. Tastings are relaxed and informal, and the vineyard walks are a highlight, especially in spring and summer. This vineyard is on my list for next spring!
8. Oastbrook Estate Vineyard (Bodiam)
Oastbrook is full of charm, thanks in large part to its exuberant and welcoming owner, America. When I visited recently, we initially thought she was hosting a private party as she was greeting everyone at the door with a hug. But, when I arrived to visit the cellar door, I was also offered the same treatment. A visit here will bring a smile to your face.
Tours here feel more like visiting a friend’s home than a formal experience, and the atmosphere is lively and warm. The estate offers flexible options, from casual tastings to private vineyard walks, and they host regular events throughout the year—including a popular harvest event. It’s an easy-going, fun vineyard that never takes itself too seriously.
Tip: Beautiful Bodiam castle is only a 4 minute drive from the vineyard, combine the two for a great day out.
9. Hidden Spring Vineyard (Horam)
Hidden Spring is a relatively new vineyard that has quickly gained a reputation for producing excellent still and sparkling wines. Tours are relaxed and friendly, with plenty of time to chat to the team about their winemaking approach. The tasting room is sleek and modern, and there’s a great range of wines to try. Book your tour direct with the vineyard here.
10. Charles Palmer Vineyards (Winchelsea)
Family-run and set on historic land near the coast, Charles Palmer produces elegant sparkling wines with a focus on terroir. The vineyard is in a particularly picturesque spot, and tastings take place in a rustic barn overlooking the vines. It’s a great option if you’re exploring the Rye area.
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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