Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour on Iconic Vintage London Bus

The Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour offers a charming and engaging way to explore the region’s renowned sparkling wines without the hassle of planning. Priced at $200.13 per person, this full-day experience lasts around 6 hours 30 minutes and departs conveniently from Brighton. It combines round-trip transportation on an iconic vintage London bus with visits to two esteemed Sussex wineries, where guests enjoy guided tours, tastings, and a locally-sourced picnic lunch. The tour is designed for small groups, making it both intimate and comfortable, with most travelers able to participate and a maximum of 30 guests.

This tour appeals to those interested in English wine production, especially sparkling wines, and who value a relaxed, scenic excursion. While the price may seem premium, reviews highlight the value delivered through expert-guided tastings, a substantial picnic, and the distinctive vintage bus experience. It’s a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts or anyone seeking a leisurely day in the Sussex countryside with a touch of nostalgia and education.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip transportation from Brighton on a vintage Routemaster bus
• Visits two of Sussex’s most respected wineries with guided tours and tastings
• Features a picnic lunch with locally produced food and a glass of English wine
• Small-group setting ensures a comfortable and personal experience
• Duration of about 6.5 hours, starting at 10:00 AM and ending around 4:30 PM
• Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately

Starting Point and Transportation on an Iconic Routemaster Bus

The tour begins at Leonardo Hotel Brighton at 101 Stroudley Rd, providing a central and accessible location. From there, guests board a restored vintage London Routemaster bus, which adds a nostalgic and scenic element to the trip. This mode of transportation not only enhances the experience but also eliminates the stress of driving or navigating, letting everyone relax and enjoy the views during the journey.

The vintage bus is spacious enough to host the small group comfortably, with reviews praising how even larger groups fit well. The bus itself becomes part of the charm, with its distinctive appearance and history adding to the overall enjoyment. The trip concludes back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Exploring Court Gardens Farm and Its Award-Winning Sparkling Wines

The first stop is Court Gardens Farm, a picturesque vineyard where a knowledgeable guide provides a comprehensive tour of the vineyard and winery. Guests walk among the vines, gaining insight into English wine production, from grape growing to wine bottling. The guided visit emphasizes the region’s reputation for high-quality sparkling wines.

Following the tour, visitors are invited to an exclusive tasting on the sunny terrace overlooking the vineyard. At least four award-winning sparkling wines are available for sampling, with detailed explanations from the guide. These tastings showcase Sussex’s distinctive style of sparkling wine, appreciated for their delicate bubbles and crisp flavors. The tasting session is both informative and enjoyable, often highlighted as a standout feature of the tour.

Enjoying a Picnic Lunch Amidst the Vines

After the first tasting, guests are encouraged to indulge in a picnic lunch on the sun terrace. The hamper, carefully curated with locally produced goodies, offers a quiche, breads, salads, and chutneys, along with homemade cakes. Each picnic hamper includes a glass of English wine, enhancing the authentic Sussex experience.

The picnic setting allows guests to relax and take in the scenic surroundings, with some reviews mentioning how pleasant and well-curated the lunch is, making it a perfect midday break. The lunch is designed to complement the wine tastings and give a taste of the region’s culinary offerings.

Visiting Bluebell Vineyard Estates for a Second Tasting

In the afternoon, the group heads to Bluebell Vineyard Estates for a second tutored wine tasting. Here, guests sample a variety of still and sparkling wines, learning about the different production styles and flavor profiles. The guided tasting emphasizes quality craftsmanship and showcases the diversity of Sussex wines.

Guests are free to browse the gift shop or enjoy a stroll around the grounds, which are described as beautiful and peaceful. This second visit provides a relaxed environment to compare wines and deepen understanding of Sussex’s wine-making techniques.

The Role of Guides and Their Expertise

Both stops feature guides and staff who lead tastings and tours, offering insights into the wine-making process, the region’s history, and the characteristics of each wine. The expert guidance is often praised for making the experience informative and engaging. The small-group setting ensures everyone can ask questions and receive personalized attention, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

The guides’ knowledge about Sussex’s wine industry and their ability to explain complexities in an accessible way are noted as major strengths by reviews.

The Vintage Bus Experience and Scenic Journey

Traveling on the iconic Routemaster bus adds a nostalgic charm to the tour. The scenic drive through the Sussex countryside provides views of rolling fields, charming villages, and scenic vineyards. Guests appreciate the relaxing pace and the unique atmosphere created by the vintage vehicle.

The bus ride also allows the group to sit back and enjoy the landscape, making the journey part of the overall experience rather than just transportation. The nostalgia and style of the Routemaster are frequently highlighted as a delight in reviews.

Practical Details: Booking, Timing, and Accessibility

The tour operates every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM between March 2025 and October 2025. It requires confirmation at the time of booking and most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 18.

Guests are advised to dress appropriately for all weather conditions and to inform the organizer of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. The meeting point is easily accessible, located near public transportation, making it convenient for travelers staying in Brighton.

The tour is booked on average 77 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and the value placed on this unique experience.

The Value and Overall Experience

While the price of $200.13 might seem high, reviews consistently highlight the value received from two guided wine tastings, a picnic lunch, transportation, and the vintage bus ride. The expert-guided tours, scenic journey, and well-curated food combine to create a memorable day.

The small-group setting adds to the personalized feel, and the high ratings (4.7/5 from 88 reviews) attest to overall satisfaction. Notably, reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning countryside views, and the quality of wines.

Who Will Enjoy This Sussex Vineyards & Winery Tour?

This tour suits wine lovers, foodies, and those looking for a leisurely countryside experience close to Brighton. It appeals to those who appreciate guided tastings, scenic landscapes, and vintage transportation. It’s especially suitable for adults over 18 who enjoy small-group tours and want a well-organized day out without the stress of planning.

However, travelers seeking a very active or physically demanding experience might find the duration and pace too relaxed. Also, those who prefer non-alcoholic options should note the inclusion of wine tastings and alcoholic beverages.

How long is the Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours 30 minutes, starting at 10:00 AM and ending around 4:30 PM.

What is included in the picnic lunch?
The picnic hamper features locally produced goodies such as quiches, breads, salads, chutneys, and homemade cakes, served with a glass of English wine.

Are transportation and guide services included?
Yes, round-trip transportation on a vintage Routemaster bus and guided tastings at both wineries are included.

What wineries are visited on this tour?
Guests visit Court Gardens Farm in the morning and Bluebell Vineyard Estates in the afternoon, both renowned for their sparkling wines.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
Guests are encouraged to advise about dietary requirements at booking; the tour is designed for adults over 18 and focuses on wine tasting.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, providing a small-group experience.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, Great British Wine Tours, with confirmation received at booking. It is recommended to book well in advance.

What weather conditions does the tour operate in?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; guests should dress appropriately.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Leonardo Hotel Brighton and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour accessible?
While specific accessibility details are not provided, the tour’s central meeting point is near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.

Can I purchase wines during the visit?
Yes, guests have the opportunity to purchase wines from the gift shop at Bluebell Vineyard Estates.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely. With its expert guidance, scenic vehicle, and delicious local food, this tour offers a genuine taste of Sussex’s sparkling wine tradition in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.