A visit to our Chapel Down vineyard is an immersive journey through the heart of English winemaking. Located just outside the charming market town of Tenterden, our estate offers an unforgettable experience for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful, memorable day in the countryside.
Whether you're escaping London for a day or making a weekend of it, here's everything you can expect from a Chapel Down vineyard tour.
Arriving in English Wine Country
Our home in Kent, often called the Garden of England, is known for its gently rolling hills and fertile soil that’s perfect for growing the grapes that go into our award-winning wines. Just over an hour from London, the vineyard is easily accessible by car or train, making it an ideal rural retreat for couples, families or friends.
As you arrive, you'll find yourself surrounded by sweeping views of the North Downs, with row upon row of neatly cultivated vines setting the tone for a relaxing and refined day out.
Begin with a Walk Among the Vines
We always recommend starting your visit with a stroll through the vineyard. Our self-guided walking trails offer space to explore at your own pace, soaking in the scenery and getting a feel for the land that shapes our wines. Each season brings its beauty—from the quiet promise of early spring buds to the golden hues of autumn approaching harvest.
There's a calm here that only the countryside can offer. The rustle of leaves, the calls of birds overhead, and the ever-present horizon of vines create a memorable backdrop before your tour even begins.
Join One of Our Guided Tours
Our vineyard tours are designed to give guests a behind-the-scenes look at how we create our wines—from grape to the glass. Led by a member of our expert team, each tour explores the winemaking process and showcases the craft, care, and traditional methods behind every bottle.
We use the Traditional Method for our sparkling wines because we believe it results in wines with finer bubbles, more complexity, and a longer, more elegant finish.
Along the way, you'll visit our winery facilities, explore our state-of-the-art equipment, and learn how our location, climate and approach contribute to the unique character of English wines.
Taste the Best of Chapel Down
No tour would be complete without a tasting, and we make sure it's an experience to remember. After the walk and talk, you'll be invited to sample a curated flight of our wines—ranging from our fresh, citrus-driven Bacchus and fruit-forward English Rose to our signature Brut NV and Rosé Brut.
Our team guides each tasting with insight and warmth, sharing the stories behind every bottle and helping you understand the subtle aromas, flavours and textures that make each wine distinct.
We believe wine is personal—so whether you're new to English wines or a seasoned sipper, there's something to suit your palate.
Stay for Lunch at The Swan
After your tour, we recommend making a reservation at The Swan, our award-winning on-site restaurant. Known for its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, The Swan serves seasonal menus crafted from the best local ingredients, many of which are sourced in Kent.
Dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the vines in warmer months, or settle into the stylish dining room when it's cooler. Our chefs work closely with our winemaking team to create dishes that complement our wines perfectly, so you can expect thoughtful pairings and an exceptional culinary experience.
It's not just a lunch—it's the centrepiece of a truly memorable day.
Browse Our On-Site Shop
Before heading home, visit our shop for a little Chapel Down magic. We offer a full selection of wines, including exclusive releases and beautifully packaged gift sets.
Whether you're picking up a bottle of something you tasted on the tour or choosing a personalised gift for someone close to you, our team will help you find the perfect wine to suit your occasion.
Looking for something extra special? Our customisation service allows you to add a personalised message to your bottle—a unique way to mark a celebration, anniversary, or thank you.
Explore the Town of Tenterden
If you've got time to spare, the nearby town of Tenterden is well worth a visit. Its wide Georgian high street, historic buildings, and independent shops make it the perfect place to continue your day at a gentler pace.
Enjoy a coffee in a local café, browse the boutiques, or visit the Kent & East Sussex Railway for a nostalgic steam train ride through the countryside. For those who love walking, numerous footpaths link the town to the surrounding landscape—including circular routes in our vineyard and neighbouring orchards.
It's a setting that celebrates everything we value: great produce, local pride, and a deep connection to the land.
A Day Well Spent
At Chapel Down, we're proud to offer more than just wine. A tour of our vineyard is a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and explore the craft behind every bottle. From the moment you arrive to the last sip of your tasting, we want your experience with us to feel warm, personal, and thoughtfully curated.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a beautiful day in Kent, we'd be delighted to welcome you.
Plan Your Visit
We're open all year round, and each season offers something unique—from the fresh new growth of spring to the vibrant colour of harvest. Our tours and restaurants are popular, especially at weekends and holidays, so we recommend booking in advance to make the most of your visit.
📍 Book a tour, reserve a table at The Swan, or explore our wines: chapeldown.com
