Kent

This tour includes both heritage and prestige as you discover one of Kents classic vineyards, and two more modern, large scale wineries.

START (8.30 am)

If taking the train, start your journey around 8.30am from London Bridge to Headcorn. Pre-book your taxi from here to Biddenden - do not rely on taxi’s being at a rank! Alternatively, you can catch a train to Ashford (from St Pancras or Stratford) and take a longer taxi ride to Biddenden (more ££, but no need to pre-book).

Stop 1: Walk The Vineyard Trail At biddenden vineyard (10 am)

Arriving around 10am when the shop opens (this may be later in the winter, check before travel), pick up a self-guided tour pack at one of Kent’s original vineyards, Biddenden. When apple prices (the fruit, not the tech) fell in the late 1960s Joyce Barnes turned to viticulture and planted a third of an acre of vines. Today, Biddenden remains a family run vineyard managed by the second and third generation - but it is much bigger at 23 acres! Get your morning steps in ready for a day of tasting and walk either their 20 minute or 40 minute trail around the estate.

After your walk, rehydrate at their cellar door with their tasting flight of wines, and also orchard juices and ciders. I particularly enjoy their sweet Schönberger, which is low in alcohol and high in flavour. It gives refreshing notes of elderflower and lychee, and it is not a ‘sticky’ sweet wine instead it has a stylish, restrained sweetness reminiscent of a Moscato d’Asti.

You’ll be hungry after all that walking and tasting, so you have two choices. Either purchase a meat and cheese sharing board here, or take a taxi/drive to your next vineyard for a more formal meal…

Stop 2: Chapel down and the swan (12 pm)

Chapel Down are one of the most famous wineries on the English wine scene. I recommend arriving around 12pm, and if you wish to have a sit down meal in their 2AA Rosette restaurant, The Swan, this should be pre-booked in advance.

If you’re not dining in the restaurant, have a wander and a wonder around their vines and explore the herb garden, before heading inside for a wine tasting. Their sparkling wines are incredible (there is an unconfirmed rumour the Duke and Duchess of Sussex featured them in their wedding), but for me the Kits Coty Chardonnay steals the show. Burgundian in style, I have enjoyed this wine not only in the vineyard but also in high end restaurants across London, where they proudly offer it on their wine lists. Being recognised by top sommeliers in the industry who are confident to put it on their wine lists shows the quality being offered by this winery.

After your tasting/lunch, you’re getting back in the car/taxi for your final taste of the day. Aim to leave before 2.30 and head 20 minutes by car to Gusbourne Estate.

Stop 3:  picnic at gusbourne (2.45 pm)

Gusbourne Estate offers a refined experience, with a strong focus on terroir-driven, vintage-only wines. The estate is known for its premium sparkling wines, made using traditional Champagne methods. Their tasting room, The Nest, overlooks the vineyards and is a serene spot to unwind with a glass in hand. If you're visiting before 3pm (and didn’t at at Chapel Down), consider pre-ordering a picnic to enjoy on the grounds or sampling from their seasonal small plates menu featuring local produce. It's a beautifully calm end to a day of Kentish wine discovery.

home time (5 pm)

To return home, pre-book a taxi for 5pm from Gusbourne to Ashford Station (20 minute drive) and make your return to London having explored a slither of the Wine Garden of England.