Top Vineyards & Wineries To Visit By Coach In South England

When it comes to fine wine producing regions, you might immediately imagine the bountiful terroirs of Bordeaux, Rioja or Tuscany. However, over the past decade or so, the south east of England has been steadily carving out an international reputation for the quality of its wines. 

Many of the award-winning vineyards of the region also welcome tourists for an enjoyable day of exploring and wine tasting. It’s perfect for group celebrations, corporate away days, or just as a relaxed part of your touring itinerary. Here’s a look at some of the top vineyards in south east England that are within easy reach of London and surrounding areas.

Why coach hire is the best way to tour vineyards

If you are travelling as a group, then coach hire makes perfect sense. Above all, everyone will be able to enjoy a glass of wine as there will be no designated driver in your party! Most vineyards are in beautiful but remote country areas, which can be a hassle to navigate. Our professional drivers will take all this in their stride, so you can chill out and enjoy the view.

If you are having a group celebration such as a hen party or birthday, or a corporate away day, it’s an opportunity to socialise and bond on the journey and build up the sense of anticipation and excitement. 

Top vineyards to visit

Chapel Down, Tenterden, Kent

Chapel Down is one of the best known English vineyards, and is set in the beautiful Kent countryside, not far from the attractive market town of Tenterden. The vineyard produces award winning still and sparkling wines from home grown Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Bacchus vines. 

The Kent downs consist of south-facing chalk soils with a mild coastal climate, and are ideally suited for cultivating high quality grapes with a rich balance of acidity and flavour. Chapel Down supplies wines to some of the UK’s finest bars and restaurants, as well as prestigious events such as Royal Ascot and the Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race.

The winery offers a range of experiences, including a guided vineyard and winery tour with tutored tasting sessions of five signature wines; cheese and wine tasting sessions; wine and dining experiences, and more. They also provide corporate away day packages that can be specifically tailored to your needs. 

Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, Surrey

Denbies is England’s largest single wine estate and is a well established tourist destination, with a hotel, restaurant, conference facilities and wedding licence. The estate is independently owned and operated, with over 380 acres and a production capacity of one million bottles. 

The estate is set amongst the scenic Surrey Hills and there’s plenty to do in the surrounding areas if you are looking for a longer break. There is a variety of indoor and outdoor tours to choose from, and it’s ideally suited to larger groups. You’ll learn about the geology and history of the estate, and enjoy a glass of Denbies Sparkling wine. 

Hambledon Vineyard, Hampshire

Hambledon Vineyard in Hampshire is England’s oldest vineyard, having been established in 1952 by Major-General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones. The vineyard is situated about ten miles from the coast, and has an exceptionally mild climate as it is protected from the strongest maritime winds by the Isle of Wight. 

The chalk terroir is located on the Paris basin, which shares the same foundations as the Côtes de Blancs in Champagne, which are celebrated for producing some of the world’s finest wines. 

The earth is also enriched with marine sediment deposits to provide an exceptionally mineral rich soil, ideal for growing grapes with well balanced sugar and acidity levels. This produces premium quality wines that have a desirable depth and complexity of flavour. 

There are a variety of winery and vineyard tours and tastings available to allow you to look behind the scenes and sample three award winning sparkling wines in the tasting room. If you prefer, you can combine the tour with lunch at the gourmet restaurant. 

Whichever winery you choose, you are sure to have a memorable experience amongst charming countryside, fine wines, and great company.