Cellar Door Wine Tour from London

An Engaging Day of Wine Tasting Near London at a Competitive Price

The Cellar Door Wine Tour from London offers a unique opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore three renowned wineries within a short drive from the city. Priced at $206.06 per person, this 8-hour guided experience departs promptly at 9:00 am from English Grounds, near London Bridge Station. This tour is perfect for those seeking an alternative way to enjoy English wines, with all tasting fees included, making it a straightforward and hassle-free day out.

While the tour moves at a relaxed pace to allow ample tasting and sightseeing, it still packs in the highlights of English viticulture. The small group size—up to 20 participants— ensures a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention. A notable strength is the carefully curated itinerary that combines vineyard visits, engaging behind-the-scenes tours, and a picnic lunch, offering a well-rounded experience without the need for prior wine knowledge.

Key Points

• Visit three top wineries in England within a single day, including Sedlescombe Organic, Chapel Down, and Woodchurch Vineyard
• All tasting fees are included, with guided tastings and behind-the-scenes tours at each vineyard
• The tour starts at London Bridge Station and concludes back at the same point after approximately 8 hours
• The experience includes a picnic lunch in the Chapel Down herb garden, adding a relaxed break to the day
• Small groups of up to 20 travelers ensure a more intimate experience
• The tour is suitable for most travelers and accessible via public transport, with service animals allowed

Starting Point at London Bridge Station for a Punctual Departure

The tour begins at English Grounds, directly opposite London Bridge Station. It departs promptly at 9:00 am, so arriving a little early is recommended to settle in. The group size is capped at 20, fostering a more personal and engaging atmosphere compared to larger coach tours.

Once everyone is gathered, the guide kicks off the day with an introduction to English wine, setting the stage for what’s to come. The journey to the first vineyard takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, during which the guide shares insights into the English wine scene and the region’s viticulture.

Exploring Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard: Britain’s Largest Organic Winery

The first stop is Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, home to the UK’s largest Organic wine producer. This vineyard emphasizes a minimal intervention approach to viticulture, which is evident during the guided tasting session. Visitors get to sample award-winning organic wines while learning about the vineyard’s sustainable practices.

The tasting session lasts about an hour and includes the chance to purchase wines directly from the shop. There’s also plenty of time for photographs and exploring the vineyard grounds. This stop is ideal for those interested in organic wine production and eco-friendly viticulture.

Exploring Chapel Down: English Sparkling and Still Wines in Small Hythe

Next, the tour proceeds through beautiful English countryside, passing charming villages en route to Chapel Down Estate. The vineyard is located in Small Hythe, a historic port known for shipbuilding in the 15th century. Here, the guide leads a guided tasting at the barrels, allowing guests to experience the full spectrum of Chapel Down’s sparkling and still wines.

Participants have the opportunity to browse the wine shop after the tasting and take in the scenic surroundings. The visit lasts about 75 minutes, providing enough time to appreciate the craftsmanship behind England’s increasingly acclaimed wines.

Picnic Lunch in the Chapel Down Herb Garden

A highlight of the day is the picnic lunch served in the herb garden at Chapel Down. This one-hour break offers a relaxed setting where guests can enjoy delicious food amid the aromatic herbs, enhancing the overall wine country experience. The lunch is included in the tour price, making it a convenient and enjoyable meal without extra cost or planning.

Visiting Woodchurch Vineyard: Sparkling and Still Chardonnay from a Small Estate

Following lunch, the journey continues to Woodchurch Vineyard, a small, family-run vineyard established in 2009. Known for their sparkling wines, Woodchurch produces a classic cuvée, a sparkling rosé, and a blanc de blancs, with a recent release of still Chardonnay.

The producer-led tasting lasts approximately an hour, giving visitors insight into the dedication and effort involved in starting and running a boutique vineyard. The tasting includes options for purchases and provides a chance to learn about the specific challenges faced by small-scale wine producers.

Returning to London: End of the Wine Journey

After the last tasting, the group boards the coach for the return trip to London, arriving back at English Grounds near London Bridge in around 1 hour and 30 to 1 hour and 45 minutes. This allows for a comfortable conclusion to the day, with time to reflect on the varied wines and scenic views encountered.

Logistics, Accessibility, and Booking Flexibility

The tour features a mobile ticket, making the booking process straightforward. It is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed and close proximity to public transportation from London. The maximum group size of 20 promotes a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of space for questions and interaction.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for those with uncertain plans. The tour is most often booked 77 days in advance, indicating strong interest and planning among participants.

Authentic Experiences and Knowledgeable Guides

Reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides, with Brian and Justin receiving particular praise for their knowledge and approachability. Guests appreciate how the guides explain the winemaking process and share stories that deepen their understanding of English wines.

The small group setting enhances the experience, making it easier to mingle and ask questions. The wine tastings are described as generous and well-organized, with no pressure to buy, which keeps the atmosphere enjoyable and relaxed.

Unique Highlights of the Tour

This tour’s key appeal is the combination of three distinct wineries in a single day, showcasing the diversity of English viticulture. The inclusion of behind-the-scenes tours, guided tastings, and the picnic lunch provides a well-rounded experience for both casual wine drinkers and connoisseurs.

The focus on organic and boutique wineries makes this tour stand out from more traditional wine excursions, offering insights into sustainable practices and small-scale wine production.

Final Thoughts on the Cellar Door Wine Tour from London

This 8-hour guided tour delivers a comprehensive look at English wines with visits to Sedlescombe Organic, Chapel Down, and Woodchurch Vineyard. The all-inclusive price, personalized guide, and scenic countryside make it a compelling choice for wine enthusiasts seeking a convenient, enriching day just outside London.

While the itinerary is packed, the relaxed pace ensures a comfortable experience. The small group size fosters a friendly environment, and the diverse wineries showcase the best of local wine craftsmanship. This tour is especially suited for those curious about organic wines, sparkling varieties, and small wineries, providing a taste of authentic English viticulture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including visits, tastings, and lunch.

Are all tasting fees included?
Yes, all tasting fees are included in the tour price, covering guided tastings at each winery.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs and returns to English Grounds, near London Bridge Station.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with service animals allowed and easy access from public transport.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of three wineries, guided behind-the-scenes tours, and a picnic lunch in a scenic setting make this a memorable day for wine lovers.