Brighton: Sussex Wine Region Walking Tour with Tastings

Brighton: Sussex Wine Region Walking Tour with Tastings – An Authentic Sip of the Countryside

This 7.5-hour guided walking tour from Brighton offers a delightful journey into the Sussex wine scene, priced at $156 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides from Great British Wine Tours, the experience combines scenic countryside walks, visits to two award-winning vineyards, and the charm of Ditchling, a picturesque village perfect for a relaxed lunch or afternoon tea.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on sustainable transport—travelling via public transport—and its emphasis on walking through the Sussex countryside, which allows for a more intimate connection with the landscape. While the tour is designed for those with a reasonable level of fitness, it offers a perfect blend of wine tasting, sightseeing, and local culture.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $156 per person, the 7.5-hour experience balances sightseeing, wine tastings, and leisure time.
• Vineyard Visits: You visit two award-winning vineyards, enjoying sparkling wine tastings at both, with guided tours included.
• Scenic Walks and Views: The tour features walks through the South Downs, with stops at Ditchling Beacon—the highest point in Sussex—offering stunning views.
• Village Exploration: The historic Ditchling provides time to explore, with options for lunch at a local pub or afternoon tea.
• Transport & Access: The tour departs from Brighton Railway Station or Brighton Palace Pier, with bus, rail, and walking included.
• Group Size & Flexibility: This experience is available as a private group, with the convenience of reserve now, pay later and full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point and Transport Logistics at Brighton

The tour begins at either Brighton Railway Station or Brighton Palace Pier, where a guide greets participants before boarding a 20-minute bus ride heading toward the South Downs. The journey sets the scene for a day filled with spectacular views of Sussex’s rolling landscapes.

Once at Ditchling Beacon, the highest point in Sussex, the group starts a walk down into the countryside, with scenic vistas on the way to the first vineyard. The combination of bus, rail, and walking ensures a relaxed pace and minimizes environmental impact.

Exploring Ditchling and Its Historic Charm

After the vineyard visit, the group walks into the historic village of Ditchling, where free time allows for exploration. The village is known for its traditional pubs and award-winning tea rooms, giving guests options for a casual lunch or a luxurious afternoon tea.

This visit to Ditchling adds a local flavor to the tour, encouraging guests to absorb the village’s quaint charm. The 100-minute stop offers ample time for shopping, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the ambiance of this Archaeological and cultural haven.

Sparkling Wine Tastings at Two Renowned Vineyards

Central to the tour are visits to two award-winning vineyards, where guided tours of the vineyards and wineries take place. These include tastings of sparkling wines, highlighting Sussex’s reputation for quality sparkling wine production.

The first vineyard introduction involves a guided walk around the vineyards, learning about wine production, followed by a tasting session. The second vineyard offers another guided tour, with another tasting of sparkling wine, making this experience a true highlight for wine enthusiasts.

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Ditchling’s Scenic Beauty and Vineyard Walks

Between vineyard visits, the tour includes scenic walks, both on the way to and from the vineyards, with spectacular views along the South Downs. The walks are approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes respectively, offering a chance to appreciate the landscape and enjoy some fresh air.

Walking through Sussex countryside, with viewpoints like Ditchling Beacon, provides a serene backdrop to the tastings and exploration. The landscape’s beauty is an integral part of the overall experience, making the entire day feel like a relaxed countryside adventure.

Lunch and Afternoon Tea Options in Ditchling

Guests can choose between lunch at a traditional village pub or comforting afternoon tea at one of Ditchling’s award-winning tea rooms. This flexibility allows for a personalized experience—whether you prefer hearty pub fare or a delicate tea service.

The 100-minute window for lunch or tea also gives plenty of time to wander around Ditchling, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere before heading to the second vineyard.

Guided Tour of the Second Vineyard and Tasting Experience

At the Court Garden Vineyard, a guided tour of the vineyard and winery lasts around 2 hours. The guide explains wine production processes, with a focus on the sparkling wines produced here.

The tasting session offers an opportunity to sample multiple sparkling wines, appreciating the nuances of Sussex wine craftsmanship. The guided nature of the tour ensures an informative experience, making wine tasting both educational and enjoyable.

Scenic Walks and Views on the Return Journey

Following the vineyard visit, the group enjoys scenic walks on the way back, with viewpoints and countryside scenery accompanying the return to the railway station. The 30-minute walk ensures a relaxed transition from wine to travel, rounding off the day’s experiences.

Participants then take a short train ride back to Brighton, arriving at either Brighton Railway Station or Brighton Palace Pier. The overall pacing is designed to balance activity with leisure, making it suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

Accessibility, Group Size, and Booking Flexibility

This tour requires a minimum of six guests to operate but can also be booked as a private experience. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old, due to walking and outdoor activities.

Booking is flexible with reserve now, pay later availability and full cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance. Starting times are usually at 09:30 AM and the tour concludes around 4:30 PM, from April to October.

Final Thoughts on the Sussex Wine Walking Tour from Brighton

This 7.5-hour experience offers a well-rounded day combining wine tasting, scenic landscapes, and village charm. The guided vineyard tours and sparkling wine tastings are the core highlights, giving wine lovers a chance to deepen their appreciation of Sussex’s reputation for quality sparkling wines.

The inclusion of a walk through Ditchling and the stunning views from Ditchling Beacon make this tour more than just a wine tasting trip—it’s a chance to enjoy Sussex’s countryside and local culture in a relaxed setting. The flexible lunch or tea options and private group availability add personal touches to the experience.

While the walking components require a moderate level of fitness, the tour remains accessible for most active visitors. For those interested in sustainable travel, this tour’s emphasis on public transport and walking makes it a responsible and immersive way to explore the Sussex wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the price includes bus and rail tickets, as well as guided walks and vineyard visits.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour runs from April to October, with start times usually at 09:30 AM. The experience is designed for warmer months when the countryside and vineyards look their best.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
No, this experience requires walking and is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What are options for lunch or afternoon tea?
Guests can choose to eat at a traditional pub or enjoy afternoon tea at a local award-winning tea room in Ditchling. Bringing your own lunch is also an option.

Can I book this tour as a private experience?
Yes, the tour is available as a private group, with flexible booking options that include reserve now, pay later and full cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby