What it is: This guide to the top ten British vineyards that offer not only great local wines but also great food will help you discover the beauty and taste of Britain’s best wine areas. As the UK wine industry becomes more well known around the world, these farms have become popular spots for people who love wine, food, and unique experiences in the countryside. This list shows vineyards in England and Wales that make good wine and serve food that comes from the area. This way, guests can get a taste of British soil with every sip and bite.From the rolling hills of Kent and Sussex to the beautiful scenery of Cornwall and beyond, each farm on this list is known for making English sparkling wines that win awards, elegant still wines, and seasonal menus that highlight British food. These farms offer authentic and high-quality experiences in every way, whether you’re looking for a quiet wine tasting, a romantic vineyard lunch, or a trip to the country with delicious food. This guide will help people find the best British vineyards that combine great winemaking with unforgettable food experiences. It’s great for wine trips, weekend getaways, and food and drink lovers looking for new tastes. This is a list of the best wine and food in Britain that you can find.
Here Are Top Ten British Vineyards That Offer the Best Local Wine and Food
10. Sandridge Barton (Devon)
Located in the Dart Valley near Totnes, Sandridge Barton is one of Devon’s finest vineyards, known for its award-winning English wines and commitment to sustainability. Formerly the home of Sharpham Wine, the estate has expanded its operations with a modern winery and tasting facilities surrounded by scenic countryside.The vineyard grows classic grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Bacchus, which thrive in its well-drained soil and mild climate. Visitors can explore the vineyard through self-guided or hosted tours, each ending with curated tastings of their finest still and sparkling wines. For food lovers, the on-site restaurant Circa offers seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including estate-raised meat and fresh Devon produce.Sandridge Barton stands out not only for its quality wines but also for its eco-conscious practices. It uses solar energy, natural waste treatment, and pesticide-free farming to reduce its environmental impact. Recent awards, including Best Red Wine at the WineGB Awards, highlight its excellence in winemaking.This vineyard offers a well-rounded experience for those seeking the best local wine and food in the British countryside, combining taste, sustainability, and a welcoming rural atmosphere.
9. Ryedale Vineyards (North York)
Ryedale is one of the northernmost commercial vineyards in the UK, nestling at the foot of the Yorkshire Wolds. Launched in 2006, this family-run estate grows about 15,000 vines across 18 grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Bacchus, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, but also heritage apple trees used to craft hand-pressed cider . Tours run from spring through to harvest, with knowledgeable hosts guiding guests through the vines and winery before a generous tasting of still wines, sparkling styles, and ciders served alongside artisan local cheeses.Cream teas are available as an optional treat. With only two rooms in a converted farmhouse available for weekends, the experience is intimate and authentically Yorkshire . The vineyard’s low-spray, eco-conscious approach supports wildflower meadows and encourages soil health and biodiversity . Seasonal events include a Yorkshire Day open day with brass band and cream teas, and even yoga and wine afternoons . Situated close to Malton, known as the region’s food capital, Ryedale offers a genuine countryside visit that melds local wine, apple cider, and warm hospitality for visitors exploring northern England.
8. Trevibban Mill (Cornwall)
Perched near Padstow, Trevibban Mill blends vineyard and orchard on a rolling Cornish hill, overlooking the Camel Estuary. Known for its sustainable and low-intervention winemaking, the family-run estate produces eclectic wines including still reds, whites, sparkling, cider, and even orange wine . Guided tours, led by owners or staff, offer insight into organic viticulture in Cornwall’s unique microclimate. Tastings include five wines or ciders paired with sharing boards of hummus, charcuterie, cheeses, and local preserves—a casual, fragrant affair.Tours cost £25 per person and last around 1 to 1.5 hours; tastings without tours are available for £17.50 with no reservation sometimes required. Guests are encouraged to linger, sipping on the terrace while enjoying sweeping views across the vines and wildflower meadows . Trevibban Mill succeeds in offering a laid-back, unpretentious afternoon of Cornish wine, cider, and farm-to-table food. It’s ideal for those seeking authenticity, flavor diversity, and a sense of place among the cliffs and coastline of Cornwall.
7. Three Choirs Vineyard (Gloucestershire)
Three Choirs is one of England’s oldest commercial vineyards, established in 1973 beneath the Malvern Hills. Its 75 acres produce a varied portfolio of still whites, reds, rosé, and sparkling wines . The vineyard offers a well-rounded visitor experience with self-guided or led tastings matched to tapas-style small plates in its ambient brasserie, crafted to complement their wines perfectly . The Brasserie is led by Head Chef Alan Tookey, who blends local ingredients with creative dishes to pair with award-winning wines. Guests can stay overnight in vineyard-view lodges nestled among the vines, enjoying breakfast with panoramic views or unwind by the fire after dinner . The estate recently held a wellness retreat complete with yoga, pilates, and gong baths for a full mind-body-wine experience . With a four-gold-star AA rating for restaurant with rooms, Three Choirs delivers an all-day getaway of wine, food, wellness, and countryside charm a sought-after destination in Gloucestershire.
6. Camel Valley (Cornwall)
Camel Valley is a standout name in English winemaking, located on sunlit slopes above the River Camel near Bodmin. This family-run vineyard has been producing award-winning wines since 1989 and is especially renowned for its sparkling wine, made using the traditional method. Its wines have earned accolades internationally, and the estate proudly holds a Royal Warrant for supplying wine to the royal household.The vineyard offers guided and self-guided tours, giving visitors a close-up view of the winemaking process. Tastings take place on a spacious terrace overlooking the vines, where guests can sample elegant sparkling rosés, crisp white wines, and the popular Cornwall Brut. The setting is peaceful, making it perfect for a relaxed countryside experience.Camel Valley keeps its approach simple and sustainable, focusing on quality over quantity. Though it does not feature a full restaurant, local food platters are available and can be enjoyed during tastings. Its location along the Camel Trail makes it a popular stop for cyclists and walkers exploring the Cornish countryside. For those looking for local wine excellence in a beautiful setting, Camel Valley offers one of the most rewarding vineyard visits in the UK.
5. Bolney Wine Estate (West Sussex)
Located just outside of Haywards Heath, Bolney Wine Estate is one of the oldest vineyards in England, with its roots tracing back to 1972. It sits on gentle slopes with sandstone soils ideal for producing award-winning still and sparkling wines. The estate is especially known for its Pinot Noir and classic English sparkling wine, both of which have received praise for their depth and structure.Visitors can choose from various tour options, including full vineyard and winery experiences followed by guided tastings. Bolney also offers a well-regarded Eighteen Acre Café, where guests can enjoy seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients that pair beautifully with their wines. The estate’s picturesque surroundings and welcoming staff make it a popular destination for food and wine enthusiasts.Bolney is also committed to sustainability, with solar panels, biodiversity efforts, and eco-conscious vineyard management. The estate frequently hosts seasonal events, wine tasting masterclasses, and even corporate retreats. Its blend of heritage, hospitality, and high-quality wines makes Bolney Wine Estate a top choice for anyone seeking authentic English wine paired with thoughtful, local cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
4. Chapel Down (Kent)
Chapel Down is one of the most prominent and innovative wine producers in the UK, located in the heart of Kent’s wine country. It has built a strong reputation for producing world-class sparkling wines and a diverse range of still wines, earning recognition from sommeliers and wine competitions around the globe. The estate is expansive and well equipped for hosting visitors interested in both wine and fine dining.Tours at Chapel Down include guided walks through the vineyards, a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, and tutored tastings of its best-selling wines. For food lovers, the on-site Swan Restaurant offers refined British cuisine, crafted with seasonal Kentish ingredients and paired expertly with Chapel Down wines. This full gastronomic experience sets it apart from many other vineyards.The estate also offers special experiences like blending workshops, gift tastings, and corporate events. Sustainability is woven into its operations through energy-efficient practices and eco-friendly viticulture. Chapel Down is a leading example of how British vineyards can compete on an international stage, offering an immersive and refined wine and food experience that captures the best of local Kentish flavors and craftsmanship.
3. Gusbourne Estate (Kent)
Gusbourne Estate, located in Appledore, Kent, is a boutique vineyard that has quickly become a leading name in English sparkling wine. Established in 2004, it focuses on traditional grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, producing wines that consistently earn critical acclaim for their finesse and structure. The estate is committed to low-intervention winemaking and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that each bottle reflects the unique character of its terroir.The vineyard’s luxury Visitor Centre, known as The Nest, offers guided tastings, vineyard walks, and seasonal events. Guests are invited to relax with glasses of sparkling wine paired with artisanal platters and enjoy sweeping views of the Kent countryside. The estate also offers masterclasses and behind-the-scenes tours that dive deep into its winemaking philosophy.Gusbourne stands out for its refined atmosphere and premium offerings, making it a go-to destination for wine enthusiasts looking for a more exclusive and intimate experience. Whether enjoying a glass on the terrace or exploring the vineyards during harvest, visitors leave with a deep appreciation for the craft and care behind each bottle of Gusbourne’s exceptional English wine.
2. Rathfinny Wine Estate (East Sussex)
Rathfinny Wine Estate is a stunning vineyard located in the South Downs near Alfriston, East Sussex. Known for its expansive 600-acre site and its dedication to producing premium sparkling wines, Rathfinny has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most impressive vineyard destinations in the UK. The estate uses only grapes grown on its own land, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and minimal environmental impact.Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and winery, followed by tastings of their award-winning sparkling wines in a modern tasting room overlooking the vines. The estate’s Tasting Room Restaurant is a major highlight, serving elegant seasonal dishes that celebrate local ingredients and pair beautifully with the wines. There’s also a more casual dining option, The Flint Barns, offering rustic charm and cozy accommodation.Rathfinny is unique for its attention to detail—from vineyard layout to hospitality—and has been recognized for its commitment to both quality and the environment. With breathtaking views, refined wines, and gourmet food offerings, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of English wine culture in a tranquil, picturesque setting.
1. Tillingham (East Sussex)
Tillingham Vineyard, located near the historic town of Rye in East Sussex, takes the top spot for its innovative approach to winemaking and its immersive guest experience. Set on a working organic farm with panoramic views of the Sussex countryside, Tillingham is known for its natural, low-intervention wines that push the boundaries of traditional English viticulture.The vineyard grows a mix of classic and experimental grape varieties, producing everything from skin-contact orange wines to crisp sparklers and earthy reds. Tillingham’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every detail—from organic farming and use of biodynamic principles to its eco-conscious architecture and waste management systems.What truly sets Tillingham apart is its food and hospitality. The estate houses a critically acclaimed restaurant offering seasonal tasting menus built around local produce, alongside casual dining in the outdoor garden kitchen. There’s also stylish accommodation in a restored farmhouse, making it ideal for wine-focused getaways.Tillingham offers a rare combination of natural winemaking, exceptional food, and a design-forward atmosphere that appeals to both serious wine lovers and modern travelers. It represents the future of British wine—creative, conscious, and completely unforgettable.
