Here are five group-friendly vineyards which are sure to entertain groups who like a tipple all year-round.
1. Wiston Estate, Sussex
At Wiston Estate, groups are treated to a talk and video about the history of the vineyard, which began when Pip Goring arrived from South Africa in 1972 and dreamed of planting a vineyard to evoke memories of her childhood. There’s a chance to see the site’s grape press, which is used during the harvest season, to freshly squeeze the produce which is all hand-picked to maintain its quality. Groups can enjoy a selection of wines, including its non-vintage Blanc de Blancs, in the vineyard’s quaint tasting room too.
2. Sandridge Barton Wines, Devon
Overlooking the Dart Valley, the vineyard produces elegant still and sparkling wines shaped by Devon’s mild maritime climate. Groups can choose from a self-guided wine flight or a guided tasting which includes a tour of the wine-making facilities and comes with a couple of cheeses to taste at the end. The Vineyard Safari, which runs from May until September, can take ten passengers at a time but bigger groups can be split up for this.
3. Nutbourne Vineyard, Sussex
Groups can venture out into the fields at Nutbourne to sample its fizz next to the vines from which it was made. If you look closely enough, you can also see wool left behind on each plant by the sheep who naturally graze the land and keep it as ideal as possible for growth.
Groups can also explore wildflower meadows, lakes and find quiet spots to sit and take in the views. Be sure to pop inside the windmill for views across the whole estate which are especially spectacular in the sunshine.
4. Woodchester Valley Vineyard, Cotswolds
Located in the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds countryside, you can glean an insight into the world of winemaking and the processes involved, as you and your group tour its lush green fields. It offers bespoke packages for groups of six or more which can include private tours and tasting experiences. The vineyard is one of a handful of English vineyards that produce wine from 100% of its own grapes in its on-site winery.
5. Kinsbrook Vineyard, Sussex
Kinsbrook Vineyard is a charming site which puts comfort and relaxation at the forefront of its offer. Visitors can sit underneath canopies and enjoy drinks and delicious food while admiring the stunning surroundings.
Kinsbrook stands for sustainability and inclusiveness and the site delivers this and more, even having its own bee hives to produce honey sold on-site. Groups can also admire its wildflowers and enjoy a number of special events throughout the summer months.
