Book Now
Book Now
Book Now

Vineyards In East Sussex

Home » Blog » Historic 1066 Country » Vineyards In East Sussex

Vineyards in East Sussex produce some of England’s finest still and sparkling wines. From historic organic estates to award-winning family-run wineries, the county offers excellent vineyard tours, wine tastings and beautiful countryside views. This guide explores the best vineyards in East Sussex, helping you choose the perfect wine experience during your visit to Sussex.

Vineyards In East Sussex

🍇 1. Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard – Historic Organic Wine Estate

⭐ 4.7 / 5 (Google Reviews)

A must-visit for wine lovers, Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard in East Sussex is one of England’s oldest organic vineyards and a true pioneer in sustainable winemaking. Established in 1979, it has a long history of producing organically certified still, rosé, red and sparkling wines using biodynamic methods that respect the land and vines.

Nestled just a short drive north of Hastings among rolling countryside in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Sedlescombe offers a peaceful wine tasting experience perfect for both novices and seasoned connoisseurs. Visitors can enjoy:

  • Guided vineyard tours and tastings featuring up to five samples of wine

  • A welcoming cellar door where you can sip wines alongside light bites

  • A nature trail through the vineyards and woodlands

  • Special events throughout the year

This vineyard is ideal if you’re staying local and want a relaxed country day out with wine, nature and history.

🍇 2. Charles Palmer Vineyards – Coastal Wine Estate at Winchelsea

⭐ 5.0 / 5 (Google Reviews)

Just a short trip from Hastings you’ll find Charles Palmer Vineyards, a family-run estate set on gently rolling slopes near the historic town of Winchelsea. The location’s south-facing vineyard benefits from a climate influenced by the nearby sea, helping grapes such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir ripen beautifully.

While relatively intimate, Charles Palmer offers a welcoming visitor experience with:

  • Guided tastings showcasing a selection of estate wines

  • Wine-and-cheese pairings and seasonal experiences

  • Seasonal events, feasts and private dining opportunities

  • Picnic hampers available daily, ideal for a vineyard lunch with views

Whether you’re a fan of sparkling English wines or rich still vintages, this vineyard offers a taste of Sussex terroir just a short drive from Hastings.

🍇 3. Oastbrook Estate Vineyard – Award-Winning Vineyard & Tours

⭐ 4.7 / 5 (Google Reviews)

Set in scenic countryside near Robertsbridge, Oastbrook Estate Vineyard is a lively and highly rated Sussex winery known for its interactive tours and excellent wines. Voted one of the best vineyard experiences in England, this estate produces both sparkling and still wines and offers tours that pair beautifully with food and walk-through tastings.

At Oastbrook you can enjoy:

  • Vineyard tours led by the winemakers where you learn about the vines and production

  • Wine tastings featuring sparkling, white, rosé and red wines

  • Seasonal events and wine experiences

  • A relaxed cellar door where you can sit and savour your favourite bottles

This vineyard is perfect for a fun and educational visit, ideal if you’re planning a day trip from Hastings or want to sample locally made English wines.

🍇 4. Beacon Down Vineyard – Family Vineyard & Picnics

⭐ 5.0 / 5 (Google Reviews)

Another gem in East Sussex’s wine scene is Beacon Down Vineyard, an award-winning family-run vineyard near Heathfield. Planted in 2015, Beacon Down’s vines thrive on south-east facing slopes, producing still and sparkling wines known for their freshness and flavour.

Arriving visitors can set out on:

  • Guided tours and tutored tastings of their current wine range

  • Picnic experiences among the vines with sweeping countryside views

  • Occasional open afternoons in August where you can enjoy a glass of wine and explore at your own pace

  • A friendly, down-to-earth vineyard vibe that suits first-time visitors as well as wine aficionados

Beacon Down is a great choice if you want a relaxed vineyard visit with wine, conversation and spectacular views.

🍇 5. Rathfinny Estate – Sussex Sparkling & Vineyard Tour

⭐ 4.6 / 5 (Google Reviews)

A little further afield near Alfriston but well worth the drive from Hastings is Rathfinny Estate, one of the region’s most notable wine estates. Rathfinny specialises in Sussex sparkling wine made with precision and care, often compared to famous European styles for its quality and finesse.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Guided vineyard tours that take you from vine to winery

  • Seasonal tastings showcasing Rathfinny’s sparkling wines

  • A self-guided walk trail for those who’d rather explore at their own pace

  • Light bites and refreshments at the vineyard’s cellar door or café

Rathfinny’s expansive estate and excellent wines make it a must-visit destination for anyone serious about English wine — perfect for a day trip or weekend break while staying in Hastings.

🍇 6. Hidden Spring Vineyard – Boutique Vineyard Experience

⭐ 5.0 / 5 (Google Reviews)

Hidden Spring Vineyard is a family-run vineyard located in Horam, near Heathfield, in the heart of East Sussex. Originally established in 1986, the vineyard has been redeveloped into a modern wine destination producing award-winning still and sparkling English wines.

Set across a 23-acre smallholding, Hidden Spring offers a relaxed vineyard experience with beautiful countryside views, making it a great choice for visitors looking for wine tasting away from the busier tourist areas.

The vineyard offers:

  • Vineyard tours and guided tastings
  • Wine flights featuring estate wines
  • A tasting room overlooking the vines
  • Seasonal events and food collaborations

Hidden Spring is ideal for couples, wine lovers and anyone looking for a relaxed Sussex countryside experience within easy reach of Hastings.

🍇 7. Court Garden Vineyard – Sussex Wine Estate & Vineyard Tours

⭐ 5.0 / 5 (Google Reviews)

Located near Ditchling in East Sussex, Court Garden Vineyard is a family-run vineyard producing award-winning English wines from its South Downs location. The estate offers visitors the chance to discover local winemaking while enjoying views across the surrounding countryside.

The vineyard has become a popular destination for wine lovers looking for tours, tastings and a relaxed countryside experience close to Brighton and the Sussex coast.

At Court Garden you can enjoy:

  • Vineyard tours and guided tastings
  • Award-winning English wines
  • Seasonal events and experiences
  • Countryside views across the South Downs

Court Garden is a great choice for visitors wanting to combine wine, scenery and a taste of Sussex’s growing English wine scene.

🍇 8. Oxney Organic Estate – Largest Organic Vineyard in the UK

⭐ 4.9 / 5 (Google Reviews)

Located near Rye in the heart of the Rother Valley, Oxney Organic Estate is the UK’s largest single-estate organic vineyard. The award-winning estate produces a range of organic still and sparkling wines using sustainable, low-intervention winemaking methods.

Set within an 850-acre organic farm, Oxney offers visitors the chance to discover English winemaking while enjoying peaceful countryside views and one of East Sussex’s most celebrated vineyard experiences.

At Oxney Organic Estate you can enjoy:

  • Guided vineyard tours and wine tastings
  • Organic still and sparkling English wines
  • Picnic lunches overlooking the vineyard
  • A winery shop and tasting room

Oxney Organic Estate is an excellent choice for wine lovers looking to experience one of England’s leading organic vineyards during a visit to East Sussex.

🍷 Tips for Visiting Vineyards Near Hastings

  • 📅 Book tours in advance — most vineyards require pre-booking for tastings and tours.

  • 🍾 Check opening times — seasonal schedules can vary, especially outside summer months.

  • 🚗 Plan transport — many of these vineyards in East Sussex are best reached by car or taxi from Hastings.

  • 📸 Pair with local attractions — combine vineyard visits with historic sites like Bodiam Castle or the 1066 countryside for a full day out.

📍 East Sussex Vineyard Map – Wine Tasting Near Hastings

Experience East Sussex Wine Country

From historic organic vineyards to award-winning sparkling wine estates, East Sussex is home to some of England’s finest wine experiences. Whether you’re a curious first-timer or a passionate oenophile, these vineyards offer memorable days out filled with beautiful countryside, guided tastings and award-winning English wines. Many are within easy reach of Hastings, making them ideal day trips during your visit to East Sussex.

Choose Apollo Guest House For Accomodation

At the Apollo Guest House, you’ll have easy access to all the best that Hastings has to offer, thanks to its prime location. So if you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in the heart of this beautiful coastal town, look no further than the Apollo Guest House.

Contact Us
You may also like:
Battle of Hastings

1066 Country and the Battle of Hastings

Cobbled Street In Rye East Sussex

Things to Do in Rye East Sussex

Camber Sands

Camber Sands

Check Availability

Book Direct with us for the Best Rate – Guaranteed!

Sites like Airbnb & Bookings.com charge you a service fee & us a commission.

When you book direct with us, we pass those savings on to you so you get the best rate – guaranteed!

Book Now