Vineyards
Sussex wines have been winning rave reviews for the last few years, impressing critics and achieving accolades, and for good reason! Come and discover why the chalky soil and sunny location of Sussex’s vineyards produces some of the most impressive English wines, and why these wines are more than worthy of the recently awarded recognition in the form of a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). There are wine experiences aplenty to enjoy here, whether you’re a wine connoisseur or are just interested in how the grapes get into your glass- you can even lend a helping hand at harvest time. Tour the vineyards with an expert guide and sample a glass or two of fantastic fizz, book dinner overlooking the vines or enjoy al fresco afternoon tea. Vineyard lodges also allow you to relax in sumptuous surroundings at some of Sussex’s vineyards.
Close to Chichester
Tinwood Estate, a short distance from the famous Goodwood Estate is a former lettuce farm which now has vines covering 65 acres. The vineyard has won numerous awards, this year scooping two prestigious Gold awards at the International Wine Challenge and The International Wine & Spirits Challenge. Luxurious lodges featuring jacuzzi baths, walk-in showers and a barrel sauna sit overlooking the vines, offering a quirky escape from the 9 to 5.
Ashling Park
“Ashling Park is a beautiful new wine estate near Chichester that is already producing some of the most delicious and characterful sparklers in Sussex. They will only go from strength to strength.” So says wine expert, Oz Clarke. It’s a 50 acre estate in a rural Sussex hamlet surrounded by the rolling South Downs. Sample their trophy-winning wines during a tour and tasting, enjoy a locally sourced meal at the restaurant among the vines or treat yourself to a stay in one of the lodges designed by Will Hardie of Channel Four’s Amazing Spaces.
Explore further into the South Downs National Park to discover Upperton, Trotton Estate, Blackdown Ridge and Kinsbrook.
Breweries
Set deep in the Sussex countryside, Langham Brewery beavers away creating a selection of authentically Sussex ales. You'll find many of these on tap at some of the many pubs across our corner of Sussex, and you can also call in to the Tap Room at the brewery for a pint or two. There are regular events held here, from live music to the annual Conker Championships. Micro breweries producing craft beers can also be found at the Farmers' Markets held in Chichester, Midhurst and Petworth.