London: Full-Day English Wine Tour with Lunch

Explore the Charm of English Wines with a Full-Day Tour from London

This full-day English wine tour offers an engaging way to experience the growing wine scene just outside London. Priced at $202.05 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and takes you through the picturesque British countryside, visiting three renowned vineyards. Led by an expert English tour guide, you’ll taste a variety of award-winning wines, enjoy a delicious seasonal lunch, and take in stunning countryside views.

This tour suits those curious about English wine production, lovers of scenic drives, and anyone eager to combine wine tasting with a day in the countryside. While the dress code suggests comfortable shoes and sunglasses, it’s also a good idea to have a camera ready for the charming villages and scenic vistas. The tour’s focus on local wines and English cuisine makes it a worthwhile experience for those wanting a taste of authentic British flavors.

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Key Points

• Visit 3 award-winning vineyards located in the British countryside
• Taste a variety of English wines, including sparkling fizz and guided tastings
• Enjoy a seasonal English lunch with a glass of wine at a traditional pub
• Travel in a luxurious mini-bus departing from London near London Bridge
• The expert guide shares insights into English wine history and industry figures
• The tour includes all tasting fees, bottled water, a goodie bag, and crisps

Starting Point Near London Bridge with a Scenic Journey Out of the City

The tour departs at 9 AM from English Grounds, located near London Bridge Station, making it easy for those staying in central London to join. The luxury mini-bus takes you through quintessential English villages and scenic landscapes, providing a relaxed and comfortable ride. The guide begins sharing the history of English wine early on, setting the scene for a day full of learning and tasting.

The expectation is for a full 8-hour experience, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the countryside and capture photos. The journey time between stops varies, with some segments lasting around 95 minutes, ensuring a good balance between travel and tasting.

First Vineyard: Sparkling Wines and Stunning Views

Your first stop is a vineyard where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the views. Here, the highlight is English sparkling fizz, which you taste after a brief introduction to the estate’s history. The guided tasting allows for a closer look at the wines, which are known for their quality and recognition in competitions, as reflected in the award-winning status.

This initial tasting sets the tone for the day, with the guide explaining the nuances of English sparkling wine production. Visitors have the chance to purchase wines directly from the shop, so consider bringing some extra money if you’d like to bring home a bottle or two.

Second Vineyard: Guided Tasting and Wine Shopping Opportunities

The second stop is another vineyard where a guided tasting takes place. The guide shares important facts about the estate’s history, and visitors are encouraged to explore the wine shop afterward. This stop emphasizes the variety of English wines, showcasing different styles and flavors that have earned recognition.

The guided tasting lasts about 75 minutes, giving enough time to sample multiple wines and learn about the estate’s methods. The relaxed atmosphere invites questions and conversations, making it a good chance to deepen understanding of English wine craftsmanship.

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Lunch at a Traditional English Pub with a Glass of Wine

At 1 PM, the tour stops at a gastro-English pub for a delicious lunch featuring seasonal, freshly prepared English dishes. Popular options include fish and chips, bangers and mash, British burger, or steak and ale pie. Vegetarian choices are always available, ensuring options for everyone’s preferences.

Each meal is served with a glass of English wine, allowing you to enjoy the pairing in an authentic setting. The pub’s atmosphere offers a taste of traditional English hospitality, making the midday break both hearty and relaxing.

Third Vineyard: Learning About the Estate and More Tasting

After lunch, the journey continues to the third vineyard, where you’ll receive a guided tour that highlights the estate’s history and unique features. The wine tasting here lasts about 70 minutes, providing a final opportunity to sample different wines and soak in the estate’s ambiance.

Visitors are encouraged to browse the wine shop again, making additional purchases if desired. The estate’s atmosphere combined with the expert guidance makes this stop a memorable highlight, especially for those interested in local wine heritage.

Return Journey and End of the Day

Around 4:30 PM, the tour begins its return to London, arriving back at London Bridge approximately 1.5 hours later. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the day’s experiences, review your tasting notes, or simply relax during the scenic drive back.

The entire experience balances wine tasting, cultural exploration, and relaxing countryside views, making it a comprehensive way to enjoy a full-day escape from the city.

Logistics and Included Amenities

This tour includes round-trip transportation in a luxurious coach or van, making logistics effortless. All tasting fees at the three vineyards are covered, and a goodie bag with a reusable bag, bottle of water, and crisps is provided. The expert English tour guide leads the way, sharing insights into the history and current industry.

Lunch with a glass of English wine is included, providing a substantial and flavorful meal. However, any additional wine or products at the vineyards must be purchased separately.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the vineyards and estate grounds. Bringing sunglasses and a camera is recommended for enjoying the countryside views and capturing memories. The tour is not suitable for children under 18, as legal drinking age in the UK is 18.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and booking reserve and pay later options provide flexibility for changing plans.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of three vineyards, each with its own character, makes this tour engaging and varied. The expert guide receives praise for knowledge and friendliness, helping to make the experience both educational and enjoyable. The scenic drive, local wines, and hearty English lunch create a well-rounded day that appeals to wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The positive reviews highlight the quality of the vineyards, the value for money, and the friendly guidance. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from seven reviews, this tour has established a reputation for being an enjoyable and informative day out.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is ideal for those interested in discovering English wines in a relaxed setting, combining scenic views, history, and delicious food and drinks. It’s perfect for wine novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike, thanks to the straightforward guided tastings.

However, those looking for an extremely flexible or highly personalized experience may find the group format limiting. The 8-hour duration and scheduled stops suit travelers who enjoy a structured day out. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and it’s best suited for those aged 18 and over.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip transportation, visits to three vineyards, all tasting fees, a lunch with a glass of English wine, an expert guide, a goodie bag, bottle of water, and crisps.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from English Grounds, near London Bridge Station, specifically in front of the Southwark Crown Court building.

How long does each vineyard visit last?
The first vineyard tasting lasts about 75 minutes, the second around 75 minutes, and the third approximately 70 minutes.

Can I buy wines at the vineyards?
Yes, opportunities to purchase wines are available at the vineyards’ wine shops. Additional purchases are not included in the tour price.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a seasonal English lunch is provided, served with a glass of English wine.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended for walking and enjoying the scenery.

Are children allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to UK drinking laws.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.

Is the guide English-speaking?
Yes, the guide speaks English and provides informative commentary throughout the day.

This full-day English wine tour from London offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, expert-guided tastings, and hearty English cuisine—a great way to learn about the country’s emerging wine scene and enjoy a memorable day outside the city.

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