The best vineyards in Sussex

This southeast region is home to over 130 vineyards (more than any other part of the country) from traditional estates with grand tasting rooms to boutique, family-run businesses and up-and-coming innovative wineries. Many of the wineries offer guided experiences, so you can spend long days touring the lush vineyards and picturesque landscapes, learning about the art of grape-to-glass from passionate winemakers and, of course, sampling the goods in indulgent tasting experiences. 

Sussex is particularly renowned for its world-class sparkling wines but its reds, whites, and rosés are also increasingly celebrated for their character and quality - so there’s something for every palate. 

Here we’ve curated a list of some of the best vineyards to visit in the area. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply seeking a tasty tipple and a special day out, we hope it sparks some inspiration for your vino adventures. Cheers! 

Nyetimber

One of the most recognisable and iconic of all Sussex’s wine brands, Nyetimber has received the accolade of ‘English Wine Producer of the Year’ numerous times and supplies many of the country’s top hotels and restaurants. It’s the only English winery to have vineyards in three different counties – West Sussex, Hampshire, and Kent. On an Open Day tour, you can visit the historic Nyetimber Estate in West Chiltington (West Sussex) and walk amongst some of the oldest vines in England, with breathtaking views across the South Downs. Venture over to enjoy a guided tasting of the four most celebrated Nyetimber sparkling wines in the 15th century Medieval Barn, including their famous Classic Cuvée. 

Bolney Wine Estate

Established in 1972, Bolney is one of the oldest vineyards in Sussex and one of the pioneers of the English wine industry. The vineyard is set in the small village of Bolney in the heart of rural Sussex, with glorious views of the South Downs and abundant wildlife – you might even spot roe deer wandering the vines if you’re lucky. There are eight different grape varieties grown on the family estate, and during a tour you can learn all about how nature guides the production of their fine still and sparkling wines, from their famous Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris to their classic sparkling Bolney Bubbly and Blanc de Blancs. Post-tour, head to the Eighteen Acre Restaurant and choose something delicious from the lunch menu to complement the wine and vineyard backdrop. 

Albourne Estate

Nestled amongst the South Downs Hills, Albourne Estate is a boutique, family-owned vineyard with an eco-conscious approach to winemaking. Since its beginnings in 2010, the winery has been producing an award-winning range of still and sparkling wines that are proudly 100% grown, produced and bottled on-site. Everything is powered by green energy and the estate practices carbon-negative techniques, such as vine management by their resident sheep. And to add to the sustainability story, each of their bottles features charming artwork inspired by the wildlife that lives amongst the vines. Stop by for a tour and tasting to learn more about their story and methods. 

Artelium

One for the culture-seekers, Artelium is a contemporary estate in East Sussex that beautifully brings together wine, art and nature. The winery celebrates the innovative and creative spirit of modern English wine by collaborating with talented winemakers and artists. From Thursday to Sunday, you can visit to enjoy a relaxed vineyard tour amongst the tranquil countryside, sample their exceptional English vintage wines with an ad hoc tasting, or linger over a long lunch in the Tasting Room. There’s a vibrant mix of events happening here throughout the year too, including creative workshops, makers’ markets, supper clubs and art exhibitions – check what’s on during your visit here. 

Ridgeview

Ridgeview, set in the chalky hills of the South Downs, has been pioneering and championing English sparkling wine since its beginnings in 1995 – and has won multiple awards in the process. Ridgeview has been the ‘official wine’ for many royal events too, including the Queen’s Jubilee and King Charles’ first state banquet. During your visit you can witness the state-of-the-art winery at work – the ‘Classic tour and wine tasting’ covers it all, or for something a little different you could try the ‘Cellar and winery tour with cheese and wine pairing’. Foodies should visit Ridgeview’s Rows & Vine restaurant too, with a beautiful open-air terrace that overlooks the vineyard and its woodland surroundings. Savour seasonal small plates and sip wine by the glass, bottle or flight. 

Bluebell Vineyard Estate

Bluebell Vineyard Estate is tucked away on the edge of Ashdown Forest – and named after the breathtaking carpet of bluebells that comes to life in this ancient woodland each spring. Since planting its first vines in 2005, Bluebell has blossomed into nearly 100 acres of vineyards spanning East and West Sussex. The winery specialises in the award-winning Hindleap range of sparkling wines, produced from classic varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, as well as more unique additions like Seyval Blanc and Ortega. During a visit, you can take a guided tour and tasting with one of the Bluebell team, or opt for a self-guided walk through the vineyard and its woodland trails.

Oastbrook Estate

Situated near Bodiam Castle in the East Sussex countryside, Oastbrook Estate was voted by the Wine International Association as one of the best wineries in Europe. You can see (and taste) their innovative wine and processes for yourself in an interactive tour with the charismatic estate owners, America and Nick. They share stories of their journey and passion as you wander the vines, before concluding with a sparkling, white, red and rosé wine tasting with paired cheese platters. Oastbrook Estate is a wonderful vineyard for families to visit too, because there are also fun children’s tours available on request.

Rathfinny Wine Estate

Rathfinny Wine Estate is set in Alfriston on a sprawling south-facing slope in the South Downs, just three miles from the English Channel. The first vines were planted in 2012 by owners Mark and Sarah Driver – and now the winery specialises in fine vintage-only Sussex sparkling wines, including Blanc de Noirs, Blanc de Blancs, Rosé and Classic Cuvée, all produced using traditional methods. You can immerse yourself in their winemaking process with a guided tour and tasting, or visit the Michelin-recommended Winery Restaurant for perfectly paired modern cuisine. For something a little more laidback in the summer, head to The Hut instead, for al fresco wine and an accompanying snack.

Oxney Organic

Oxney is the UK’s largest organic vineyard, producing award-winning still and sparkling wines from its serene countryside location near Rye. The estate prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and quality – and if you’re curious to learn more about their ecoconscious approach and organic farming methods, you can get a peek behind the scenes on a guided vineyard tour and tasting. You can savour the opportunity to sample some of their delectable signature wines too, of course. And for an extra treat in the summer months, Oxney offers a ready-to-enjoy picnic basket, filled with artisanal cheese, charcuterie, olives, and fresh bread, paired perfectly with a glass of Oxney’s organic wine in the great outdoors. 

Wiston Estate

The Wiston Estate, set in a beautiful expanse of countryside in the South Downs, has been part of the Goring family heritage since 1743, though the first Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay vines were planted in 2006. Today Wiston’s Estates philosophy is about driving reconnection with the land and creating an environment in which ‘people, nature and enterprise can flourish’. It’s already renowned for its sparkling wines, which you can sample during a tour or tasting experience. There are a number of unique ways you can explore the estate and its wines too, from the ‘Off-road Bike Tour & Lunch’ to the ‘Sundowner Safari Tour, Tasting & Dinner’. Or you can simply enjoy a leisurely lunch at the onsite restaurant, Chalk, where the menu celebrates seasonal farm-to-table ingredients, many of which are sourced from the estate itself.

Ashling Park Estate

In the charming hamlet of West Ashling just a few miles from Chichester, lies the beautiful Ashling Park Estate framed by 100-year old oak trees. This award-winning vineyard is renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation – as you can discover on an immersive tour and tasting experience. You can typically sample five of their finest wines, from the trophy-winning Sparkling Rosé to their silver medal-winning Blanc de Blancs. And if you’re not a wine fan, the estate hosts Cocktail Masterclasses and Gin Making Experiences too. You also can hire an eBike to explore the estate’s stunning scenic surroundings – Wittering Beach, Chichester Harbour, and the woodland trails of Kingley Vale Nature Reserve are just a short ride away.

Stopham Vineyard

Stopham Vineyard is located in the scenic South Downs National Park, with their winery housed in a converted Grade II listed Victorian Barn. Since 2007 they’ve been producing exquisite wines, specialising in whites like Bacchus, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Auxerrois, as well as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for their sparkling varieties. Passion, precision, craft and sustainability are at the heart of everything they do, and you can meet the winemakers and learn more about their processes in one of their intimate vineyard and winery tours (offered on Saturdays from April to September). The tour finishes up with a tasting, of course, with some of their most well-loved wines in the Stopham range. 

Tinwood Estate 

The family-run Tinwood Estate near Chichester has built a reputation as one England’s premier producers of sparkling wines. In 2006, founder Art Tukker took over the farm on which his parents had previously grown iceberg lettuce and decided to plant vines, converting the land from salad to wine. The vineyard now focuses on the classic Champagne grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, to craft their range of Estate Brut, Blanc de Blancs, Rosé and more. Visitors are welcomed to explore the picturesque vineyard and learn more about the Estate’s approach to winemaking, as well as taste a selection of the sparkling wines on offer. 

Roebuck Estates

Roebuck Estates, named after the wild deer that are often seen roaming in their surroundings near Petworth, is a rising star in English sparkling wine. It was established in 2013 by two friends who shared a great passion for wine and the same clear vision: ‘to craft exceptional vintage sparkling wines every single year that could be enjoyed all over the world.’ Since their first release in 2019, they’ve already won numerous trophies and awards in prestigious wine competitions including a Best in Show and a Platinum medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards. You can taste the quality for yourself during a vineyard tour and tasting with one of their passionate team members. 

Staying in Sussex

Whether you’re planning a romantic long weekend of wine-tasting, or a whole week (or two) of vineyard-exploring, we have a gorgeous selection of magical hideaways for you to choose from in Sussex. How about a cosy shepherd’s hut nestled amongst cherry trees in the tranquil countryside? Or perhaps a magical treehouse in an enchanting woodland glade, perfect for alfresco living... For dreamy inspiration, browse our full selection of glamping hideaways in Sussex. 

If you’re looking for more things to do during your stay, read our guide for unforgettable days out in West Sussex. You can find plenty of foodie inspiration in this guide to the best places to eat in Sussex, too.