If you’ve ever driven through the rolling hills of Kent and spotted neat rows of vines catching the sunlight, you’ll know exactly why this corner of England is known for its wineries in Kent and is aptly nicknamed the Wine Garden of England. From the chalky slopes of the North Downs to the ancient woodlands of the Weald and the gentle sea breezes rolling in from the English Channel, Kent’s beautiful countryside produces some of the most delicious wines in the country. It’s also home to some pretty amazing castles; check out the complete Kent Castles List.
Wineries In Kent
I’ve spent many weekends wandering around these vineyards. Sipping a glass of sparkling wine here, nibbling local cheese there, and each visit feels like a little holiday. So, if you are after a day of wine tasting, a self-guided tour, or a romantic weekend among the vines, here’s my guide to Kent’s wineries, grouped by region. This will help you plan your perfect day out.
Why Kent Is Perfect for Wine Lovers
Kent has the ideal recipe for wine. Its mild climate, chalky soils (which are in fact shared with the Champagne region) and long sunny days create the perfect location for English sparkling wine made using traditional methods. Many estates grow Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, which are the classic Champagne trio, alongside local stars like Bacchus.
Add in a rich history, acres of vineyards, and a growing number of tasting rooms, and you’ll understand why the county now produces some of the most award-winning wine in Britain.
If you’re new to wine or curious about grapes, you might also enjoy reading my post on Malbec vs Merlot. It’s a great little explainer before you hit the Kent Downs for your first tasting session.
North Kent Wineries – Wineries In Kent
Meopham Valley Vineyard – Meopham
A short hop from central London, Meopham is a family-run vineyard producing a range of wines from crisp whites to rosés and a bright English sparkling. Their guided tour of the vineyards offers a relaxed stroll followed by tastings of wines in the cosy cellar door.
Champion Court Farm – Newnham
Nestled among apple orchards near Sittingbourne, this small producer quietly crafts still wines from different grape varieties. It’s an ideal spot if you enjoy discovering somewhere a little different on your self-guided tours.
West Kent Wineries – Wineries In Kent
Squerryes Winery – Westerham
One of Kent’s sparkling-wine superstars, Squerryes Winery, sits beside Squerryes Court, home to the Warde family for centuries. The elegant tasting room and terrace overlook the vines, and their restaurant serves beautiful dishes paired with estate wines.
The Mount Vineyard – Shoreham
Just a 20-minute drive from Sevenoaks, The Mount Vineyard is a top venue for a day of wine tasting. You can book a tutored tasting or relax with a pizza and a bottle of rosé wine on the terrace. The knowledgeable guides explain the different grape varieties and the modern technology behind their award-winning wine. It’s also a perfect destination for a Kent date idea – I’ve linked a few more in my Kent Date Ideas post if you’re planning a romantic outing.
Yotes Court Vineyard – Mereworth
A relatively new name with a seriously professional set-up, Yotes Court Vineyard produces great value still wines and hosts regular tastings of wines in its airy tasting room. Expect meticulous attention to detail, friendly staff, and the occasional unique event such as yoga among the vines or small-group guided tours.
Mereworth Wines – Wateringbury
Neighbouring Yotes Court, Mereworth combines a relaxed winery shop with sparkling wines that rival anything across the English Channel. The vineyard is a perfect place to stop for a quick glass of wine on your way through the heart of Kent.
Silverhand Estate – West Peckham
One of the region’s newer and largest sites, Silverhand Estate, is already known for producing the most expensive English wine ever released. Its vast acres of vineyards stretch across the Kent Downs and promise to put West Kent firmly on the world wine map.
Birchden Vineyards – Groombridge
Tucked away near the Sussex border, Birchden Vineyards is an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon. With walking trails through ancient woodlands, it’s the perfect place for wine enthusiasts to relax in the beautiful Kent countryside.
Herbert Hall – Marden
A boutique single-estate vineyard producing sparkling wine by traditional methods. Look out for its Gold Medal Blanc de Blancs, which is not only crisp, elegant, but it’s thoroughly English.
Mid Kent & The Weald – Wineries In Kent
Balfour Winery (Hush Heath Estate) – Staplehurst
You’ll find Balfour Winery, formerly known as Hush Heath Estate, hidden among apple orchards and rolling hills. It’s one of the best vineyards for winery tours and tutored tastings, with a sleek modern tasting room, a vineyard shop, and even a little art winery vibe. Their sparkling wines, rosé wines, and stills are all produced using traditional methods. It’s an ideal spot for a day of wine tasting or a weekend getaway.
Biddenden Vineyards – Biddenden
Kent’s original vineyard and one of my favourites, Biddenden Vineyards, has been run by the Barnes family since 1969. Their self-guided tours are brilliant for anyone who wants to explore at their own pace, and the shop sells everything from cider to local cheese and honey. Their Bacchus and Ortega wines are well worth a try, and the friendly, family-run vineyard team make everyone feel at home.
Chapel Down – Tenterden
A household name in English wine, Chapel Down is one of Kent’s best-known wineries and perhaps the perfect destination for your first visit. Their vineyard tours are fascinating, showing how they craft English sparkling wine from grape to glass. You can dine at the excellent Swan Restaurant, wander through the herb garden, and pick up a bottle or two in the shop. The estate is simply a beautiful slice of the beautiful Kent countryside. I’ve dined at the Swan Restaurant and can tell you that their food and hospitality are amazing. I’ve also done the tour here, and although we had terrible weather, it was so interesting and I really enjoyed the wine tasting.
Gusbourne Estate – Appledore
This is one of Kent’s true stars. Gusbourne produces award-winning wine, often winning international competitions for its Pinot Noir and Blanc de Blancs. Their tasting room, known as The Nest, offers a brilliant day out, especially if you book one of their small group experiences with knowledgeable guides.
Westwell Wines – Charing
Just beneath the North Downs, Westwell Wines combines modern technology with minimal-intervention winemaking. Their tasting sessions are relaxed, creative, and often feature unique events like Sunset Sessions or art and music pairings. Definitely one for adventurous wine enthusiasts who like something a little different.
Wayfarer Wines – Woodchurch
A boutique, family-run vineyard creating elegant still wines with meticulous attention to detail. Their cellar door is open for tastings, and their still Pinot Noir is especially good.
Woodchurch Wine Estate – Woodchurch
A single estate vineyard producing still and sparkling wines with stunning views across Romney Marsh. The friendly team offer both guided and self-guided tours of the vineyard. It’s an ideal way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Oast Wood Vineyard – Tenterden
A smaller site, Oast Wood, offers intimate tours and produces a lovely range of still wines.
Wildshark Vineyard – Harrietsham
Wildshark Vineyard is one of Kent’s newest eco-focused vineyards, producing both still and sparkling wines. It’s a great example of how the county is embracing sustainability while crafting delicious wines.
Domaine Evremond – Chilham
A partnership between Champagne Taittinger and Hatch Mansfield, Domaine Evremond has brought centuries of expertise to Kent. It’s due to open its visitor centre soon, making it one of the most exciting additions to Kent’s vineyards.
Brabourne Vineyard – East Brabourne
A small, family-run vineyard near Ashford producing boutique wines using different grape varieties, all grown on their scenic slopes.
East Kent – Canterbury, Dover & Thanet – Wineries In Kent
Simpsons Wine Estate – Barham
Simpsons Wine Estate is another jewel in Kent’s crown. Set in the Elham Valley near Canterbury, it’s known for its elegant sparkling and still wines. Their tasting room features a spiral slide, known as the fruit chute, and the guided tour of the vineyards is both informative and fun.
Chartham Vineyard – Chartham
Close to Canterbury, Chartham Vineyard offers a warm welcome, great wines, and an art gallery space showcasing local artists. This combination of wine and culture makes it one of Kent’s most unique experiences.
Heppington Vineyard – Bridge
A newer family-run vineyard, Heppington produces a delicate range of wines and offers relaxed tastings with a view over the Kent Downs.
Barnsole Vineyard – Staple (near Wingham)
Barnsole Vineyard has a rich history and an approachable, down-to-earth team. They offer great-value tastings and explain how their still and sparkling wines are made using traditional methods. Perfect for a friendly afternoon stop.
Terlingham Vineyard – Hawkinge
Just outside Folkestone, Terlingham Vineyard offers organic wines and eco-friendly vineyard tours. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat overlooking the English Channel.
Chalksole Vineyard – Alkham Valley
Chalksole sits in the pretty Alkham Valley near Dover. Its tiny production and boutique feel make it one of the county’s best-kept secrets for wine lovers seeking something off the beaten path.
Woolton Farm – Bekesbourne
Technically best known for cider, Woolton Farm also produces sparkling wine and runs special events throughout the year. With its herb garden, orchard walks and glamping, it’s a perfect location for a weekend escape.
Best Wineries In Kent for Tours & Tastings
If you’re planning wine tours of Kent, here are a few of my top picks:
Chapel Down – for the full winery experience and that lovely Swan Restaurant.
Balfour Winery – for tutored tastings and scenic walks among apple orchards.
Gusbourne – for its award-winning English sparkling wines.
The Mount Vineyard – for a relaxed afternoon of wine and pizza.
Simpsons Wine Estate – for something a little different (don’t miss the slide!).
These estates are the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts wanting to enjoy Kent’s countryside, learn about winemaking, and sip some of the country’s great wines.
Best Time to Visit & Events
The best time to visit Kent’s vineyards is from late spring through early autumn (May to October), when the vines are lush and tours of the vineyard are in full swing. September is harvest time. Many wineries run special events where visitors can join in or enjoy a glass while watching the pickers at work.
For something extra special, look out for Wine Garden of England events such as the annual summer festival, which brings together wineries from across the county.
Pair your tour with an Afternoon Tea in Kent, look at things to do in nearby historic towns like Rochester or plan a full weekend in the countryside – it’s the perfect way to unwind.
FAQs
How many vineyards are there in Kent?
There are now more than 25 wineries and vineyards open to visitors, producing everything from sparkling to still wines.
What is the best time for a tour?
Late spring and summer, when the vines are green and tastings are outdoors. Although some estates run indoor tours all year round.
Can I do a self-guided tour?
Yes! Biddenden Vineyards is famous for its self-guided routes, and others like Woodchurch and Squerryes offer relaxed wander options.
What’s the most famous Kent wine?
Chapel Down and Gusbourne are internationally recognised for their English sparkling wine.
Do Kent wineries host unique events?
Many run live music, food pairings, or other events. Squerryes, Balfour, and Westwell are particularly good for those.
Kent’s wineries really do offer something for everyone. From a guided tour of the vineyards and a cosy tasting room experience, to a long lunch overlooking the beautiful Kent countryside.
Whether you’re sampling rosé wines at Yotes Court, learning about the different grape varieties at Balfour, or enjoying a glass of wine while gazing over the North Downs, it’s hard not to fall in love with this region.
If you love a countryside escape, a day among the vines is the perfect day out in Kent. Cheers to that!
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Thank you for reading my post about wineries in Kent. If I have missed any of your favourites, please feel free to drop me a line either via my comments, via email or via social media. I’m always looking for ways to keep my posts updated, and I’d love to know what you think are Kent’s gems.