There’s a reason that Kent is considered the “Wine Garden of England.” The county boasts over 50 vineyards nestled among its sloping green hills, arching forests, and picturesque villages—offering a delightful escape just a short drive from London. Below, discover the ultimate wine tour of Kent, featuring five exceptional vineyards, charming pubs, and delightful places to explore along the way.
Day One
Vineyard 1: Squerryes
In less than an hour from London, I arrived at Squerryes, a historic estate that has belonged to the Wardes family for over 300 years. The estate, embodying the motto “It is permitted to be joyful,” focuses on premium vintage sparkling wines. A lovely dining room complements this experience with British comfort food, including lamb faggots and a succulent beef bourguignon suet pudding. My tasting experience here highlighted a refreshing 2020 rosé with its zesty flavor that revitalizes the palate.
Vineyard 2: Balfour Winery
Just a 20-minute drive away, Balfour Winery sits on Hush Heath Estate, recognized as one of England’s premier tourism attractions. The spacious grounds invite you to explore ancient woodlands and fields of wildflowers. After taking a pleasant walk through the vineyard, I enjoyed an introductory wine tasting that showcased several delightful wines crafted by Owen and Fergus Elias.
Vineyard 3: Westwell Wine Estate
As the sun began to set, I arrived at Westwell Wine Estate, which features an inviting open barn showcasing its winemaking process. This trendy space attracts a lively crowd and often hosts music and food trucks. Guests can enjoy a delightful tasting of the signature Pelegrim sparkling wine, a delightful way to unwind after a day of exploration.
Where to Stay: Boys Hall
After a fulfilling day, I stayed at the beautifully restored 17th-century Boys Hall. This cozy space features deep jewel-colored walls and crackling log fires, radiating luxurious relaxation. Its picturesque garden views made for a tranquil night’s rest.
Day Two
Vineyard 4: Gusbourne
Gusbourne, located just 20 minutes from Boys Hall, stands out for its remarkable quality and award-winning wines. Guests can embark on self-guided tours through the Boot Hill vineyard and participate in informative tasting sessions that highlight the significance of terroir in winemaking.
Lunch Stop: Bridge Arms
After a scenic drive to the dog-friendly Bridge Arms near Canterbury, I experienced one of the best meals of my life. The Grade-II listed inn, under the adept guidance of chefs Daniel and Natasha Smith, excels in showcasing seasonal local produce with dishes such as succulent buttermilk fried chicken and a whole native lobster, accompanied by warm rosemary bread and delightful seasonal salads.
Vineyard 5: Simpsons Wine Estate
Just a short drive brings me to Simpsons Wine Estate, owned by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Charles and Ruth Simpson. Their unique approach includes a tube slide in the winery, adding an element of fun to the experience. The Saturday walking tours through the historic Roman Road vineyard are quite popular, allowing guests to immerse themselves in England’s winemaking history.
Where to Stay: Chilston Park
For a restful night, I continued to the stunning Chilston Park, a historic country house hotel. Offering exquisite accommodations with modern comforts, its scenic grounds, fine dining experiences, and luxurious ambiance create a memorable ending to this wine-filled adventure.
