Wine lovers unite – this blog is for you. But to take you on the best possible tour of vineyards, we’re going to have to remove you from the comfort of your hotel breakfast in Paddington and take you a little outside of London.
While the city itself does boast one or two small vineyards, the majority of wine-related experiences are best explored in the countryside surrounding the city – with this blog taking you to Surrey, Kent, Essex, and Hampshire. Safe to say, staying in one of the budget hotels near Paddington or another station is key if you want to make travel as easy as possible.
Where to stay in London
From the Park Avenue Inn in London to the assortment of hotels near Lancaster Gate Station London, locating yourself close to a major train line is key if you want to make travel to and from each of these vineyards easy. With all the tasters on offer at each of the locations, we’re confident you won’t want to be driving home – so making the most of public transport is important.
Surrey
Greyfriars vineyard is one of the best producers of the champagne grape in England, with an onsite winery underground which allows for the maturation of wine all from the comfort of the site itself. Guided and self-guided tours are available here, bolstered by tasting opportunities and of course a chance to take a bottle back to your hotel to enjoy with breakfast in and around Paddington.
Essex
The Dengie in Essex offers a number of vineyard experiences, with New Hall at Purleigh one of the best in terms of access and the rural, charming setting. There are a ton of walks in the surrounding area for those visiting for the day, with the vineyard producing white, rose, red, and sparkling wines in abundance.
To get to Essex, simply hop on the tube from your budget hotel near Paddington, head to Liverpool Street Station, and then get the Greater Anglia train out towards Southminster or Southend Victoria.
Kent
Kent is home to a few vineyards, but one of the best is Biddenden Vineyard – which is also the first vineyard to have been established and grown in Kent. With 23 acres of land and 12 different varieties of grape, this vineyard appeals to and caters for all wine fans – with the family and winemakers themselves hosting tours that allow you to get answers to all your burning questions.
Hampshire
The furthest afield but one of the best experiences in terms of a day trip or overnight stay away from the city, heading down to Hampshire gives you access to the coastline, the New Forest, and the splendour of Hambledon Vineyard.
This vineyard is the oldest in England and is well worth a visit, with taster sessions and guided tours available most days.
