The five best British vineyards to visit before summer ends
Nestled in the picturesque countryside, British winemakers have been honing their craft to deliver some of the best wine found anywhere in the world. To help you get the most from these hidden gems, here are our recommendations for a wine-lover’s perfect summer holiday.
Camel Valley
Cornwall, England
Cornwall is famous for its sensational coastlines. But looking inland you’ll find one of the UK’s most scenic vineyards; Camel Valley. This Cornish gem is a stone’s throw from the Camel River and enjoys some of the best weather and soil anywhere in the country. Established in 1989, Camel Valley is fast becoming a southwest institution with exceptional views of the rolling hills and a palate-pleasing wine selection to match.
Nyetimber Vineyard
West Sussex, England
Famed for its delectable bubbles, Nyetimber is the jewel in the crown of British fizz thanks to the chalky soils similar to those of the Champagne region. This award-winning vineyard can be found in the heart of the southern English countryside where the watchful eyes of winemaking power couple Cherie Spriggs and Brad Greatrix ensure the quality and attention to detail that characterises their wine.
Llanerch Vineyard
Vale of Glamorgan, Wales
Perched among 20 acres of extraordinary vineyard only 15 minutes from Cardiff, Llanerch can trace the property’s heritage back to 1800 when all that graced its expanse was a single three-bed farmhouse. Today, their famous Cariad wines, two AA Rosette restaurant, and award-winning hotel draw visitors from around the globe. Tours and tastings are available on site, so you can taste and learn about Llanerch’s comeback story after nearly being lost forever during the 2008 recession.
Chapel Down
Kent, England
Lest we forget Chapel Down, perhaps the country’s premier wine producer. Benefitting from chalky winemaking terroir in Kent’s North Downs, Chapel Down releases consistently award-winning sparkling and still wines. Their winery tours are legendary, and the estate has grown to offer a multitude of entertaining and engaging ways for visitors to enjoy themselves.
Gwinllan Conwy Vineyard
Snowdonia, Wales
A fabulous and unique day out, Gwinllan Conwy Vineyard can be found amongst Snowdonia’s eye-catching, mountainous expanse. This small three-acre vineyard is a new kid on the block, but already making a big impression with even from their inaugural 2012 vintage earning accolades. Their location and invention have since borne incredible wines from cold climate grape varieties and their tours are a perfect way to deepen your wine knowledge.
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