As the new year begins and the festive season winds down, thoughts naturally turn to the months ahead. Spring may feel distant during the winter chill, but now is the ideal time to plan your visit to Chapel Down Estate. With longer days on the horizon, the promise of warmer weather and our vineyards preparing to come back to life, booking early ensures you experience the very best of what Kent has to offer.
Located just outside the historic town of Tenterden, our estate is open year-round for tours, tastings, and casual visits. But spring brings something particularly special. As the vines begin to bud and the gardens bloom, the estate is transformed into a vibrant and welcoming destination. Whether you are planning a day out with friends, a romantic escape or a team reward, getting ahead now means you can secure your preferred date and enjoy a seamless experience.
Enjoy the Estate at Its Freshest
Spring at Chapel Down is a time of anticipation and renewal. The landscape turns green again, and the first signs of the growing season begin to appear across the vineyards. While summer and autumn are often the busiest times for visitors, spring offers a quieter, more personal experience. The milder weather and lighter crowds mean you can enjoy the estate at a gentler pace.
Our self-guided walks allow you to explore the vineyards at your leisure. Take in the views, learn more about our winemaking process and enjoy a glass or two while surrounded by the English countryside. If you would prefer something more structured, our guided Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting experiences offer a fascinating insight into how our wines are made. These tours are available to book now and tend to fill quickly as the season approaches.
Book Tours Ahead for Peace of Mind
One of the most popular ways to experience Chapel Down is through our guided tours. Led by knowledgeable hosts, these tours take you through the vineyard and winery, explaining how our wines are grown, produced and bottled. Each tour concludes with a tutored tasting of five wines, giving you the opportunity to sample a variety of our still and sparkling styles.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly for spring weekends. Spaces are limited, and early planning gives you the best choice of dates and times. Whether you are looking to visit during Easter, a spring bank holiday or simply a weekend getaway, reserving your spot now ensures you do not miss out.
Make It a Gift or Experience to Share
A visit to Chapel Down also makes a thoughtful gift. Our Vineyard Tour & Tasting experiences can be purchased in advance and gifted to friends, family or colleagues. They are ideal for birthdays, anniversaries or simply as a way to look forward to brighter days.
For businesses, spring is a great time to reward teams or host clients in a relaxed and memorable setting. Group bookings and corporate experiences are available and can be tailored to suit your needs. By planning early, you can create a day that combines hospitality, learning and enjoyment, all set against the backdrop of the Kent countryside.
Sample English Wines at the Source
A visit to our estate allows you to taste our wines where they are made. From our signature Traditional Method sparkling wines to still whites and rosés, every bottle reflects the care and craftsmanship that goes into our winemaking.
During your tasting, you will have the opportunity to sample a curated selection of wines that may include our Chapel Down Brut, Rosé, Bacchus 2024, English Rosé 2024 or Chardonnay 2023, depending on availability at the time of your visit. While tasting notes may vary with each vintage, our team is always on hand to talk you through the styles and answer any questions.
All of our wines are available to purchase from the on-site shop, which is open seven days a week. Whether you are looking to take home a bottle for dinner or stock up for a special occasion, our team can help you find the perfect wine for your taste.
Extend Your Visit with Dining and Shopping
While on site, you can enjoy more than just the vineyard. Our estate also includes a gift shop offering wine accessories, local produce and seasonal items. It is a great place to browse after your tasting or pick up a last-minute gift.
Although dogs are welcome in the shop and around the site on leads, they are not permitted in the restaurant or on guided tours. If you plan to dine with us, booking ahead is again advisable. While the restaurant is currently accessed via a staircase and may not be suitable for all guests, our shop and tours are wheelchair accessible.
For those not drinking or who are expecting, we provide soft drinks as part of the tasting experience. The tour remains the same price and still offers a full insight into our winemaking process.
Make Travel Arrangements Early
Transport links to Chapel Down are straightforward, but booking ahead makes things easier on the day. If you are travelling by train, the nearest stations are Headcorn and Ashford, both of which are a short taxi ride from the estate. Local taxi services can be limited, so we recommend arranging both legs of your journey in advance.
If you plan to drive, free parking is available on site. Cars can be left overnight in our secure car park if needed, though we do not allow overnight stays in campervans or motorhomes.
Comfortable footwear is advised, particularly if you are taking part in the walking tour. In winter and early spring, wellies or walking boots are sensible, while lighter shoes are fine later in the season.
A Chance to Recharge in the Kent Countryside
Planning a spring visit to Chapel Down is about more than just wine. It is a chance to step away from the everyday, connect with the land and enjoy a slower pace in a beautiful setting. As the season shifts, the estate becomes a peaceful place to reflect, recharge and reconnect with others.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning as a familiar guest, there is always something new to discover in the vines. From the emerging buds to the evolving flavours in each glass, spring is a time of renewal, and a perfect reason to visit.
Start Planning Today
By taking the time now to plan your spring visit, you ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience when the season arrives. With tours, tastings and walks available, as well as wines to enjoy on site or take home, Chapel Down offers a true taste of English winemaking in the heart of Kent.
Book early, bring your curiosity, and we will look forward to welcoming you to the estate this spring.
