As spring arrives and the English countryside begins to bloom, it's the perfect time to plan a day out that celebrates nature, food and wine. At Chapel Down, we offer a range of experiences that allow you to enjoy the beauty of our Kent vineyards, learn about English winemaking and savour some excellent wines along the way. Whether you're a local resident, exploring with family, or organising a visit with friends, a spring day at Chapel Down offers a refreshing blend of activity, flavour and discovery.
Located in the heart of the Garden of England, our estate is open throughout the year for visitors. From guided tours and tutored tastings to relaxed walks through the vines and lunch in our restaurant, there's something for everyone. Drawing on our heritage as England's leading wine producer, this guide will help you plan a memorable spring visit.
Choose Your Experience
Chapel Down offers several ways to enjoy a spring day out. Walks through the vineyards, guided tours and meals all blend with the seasonal warmth and vibrant growth of spring.
Guided Tour and Tasting
The Guided Tour and Tasting is our signature experience. It begins with a walk through the vineyards and winery, where you can learn about the vine cycle, the influence of the English climate and the methods we use to craft our wines. You'll then enjoy a tutored tasting of a selection of Chapel Down wines, which may include both still and sparkling options.
This experience is ideal if you want a deeper understanding of how English wine is made, from vine to bottle, and it provides plenty of opportunity to appreciate the spring growth across our estate.
Cheese and Wine Experience
For a spring outing that combines flavours with learning, the Cheese and Wine Experience adds local English cheeses to the mix. After touring the vineyards and winery, you will sample Chapel Down wines paired with artisan cheeses. This experience offers something a little different, focusing on how wine complements food in a relaxed tasting format.
Wine and Dine Experience
If you are looking for a longer day out, the Wine and Dine Experience pairs a guided tour and tasting with a three-course lunch at The Swan restaurant. The meal is served with two glasses of Chapel Down wine, making it a fitting spring occasion for those who appreciate both food and wine together.
This format is ideal for a celebration, a special outing with a partner, or a leisurely day with friends.
Self-Guided Vineyard Walks and Tasting Bar
If you prefer flexibility, you can arrive at the estate and enjoy a self-guided visit. Our tasting bar offers flights and glasses of wine from our current range, and the vineyard trails invite you to explore the growing vines at your own pace.
This can be especially pleasant in spring when the vines and the surrounding countryside are turning green, and the weather is milder. Bring comfortable shoes and savour the calm atmosphere.
What to See and Do on Site
Explore the Vineyards
Spring is a dynamic time in the vineyard. Vines are waking from winter dormancy and beginning the cycle that will lead to fruit in summer. A walk through the rows offers a sensory connection to the seasons and a chance to understand the land that produces Chapel Down wines. The changing light and fresh greenery make this a highlight of a spring visit.
Visit the Winery Shop
Our winery shop features our full range of wines available to taste and take home. It's a good place to sample Chapel Down sparkling and still wines before deciding what to stock up on. The shop also offers accessories and gift options ideal for sharing the experience with others.
Relax with a Glass Outside
On a pleasant spring day, one of the simple joys is enjoying a glass of wine outdoors. The Cellar Door outdoor seating and vineyard views create a relaxed setting where you can sit, sip and watch the world go by. The warmer days and longer evenings of spring make this a particularly engaging way to spend time during your visit.
Lunch in The Swan
If you choose one of the wine-and-food experiences, you'll dine in The Swan restaurant. Located on the estate, the restaurant's menus are designed to reflect seasonal ingredients and complement our wines. Booking ahead is recommended, particularly on weekends, as this experience combines dining with your day out.
Wines to Enjoy During Your Visit
While tasting notes are not included here unless published on product pages, the following Chapel Down sparkling wines are available and popular with visitors in springtime. You can sample them at the shop or include them in tutored tastings as part of your visit.
Chapel Down Brut is a core sparkling wine in our range, produced using the Traditional Method and suited to celebrations or casual sipping.
Chapel Down Rosé is a sparkling rosé that brings vibrancy and freshness, often enjoyed during outdoor tastings and shared occasions.
Rosé Reserve 2021 is an award-winning sparkling wine that sits within our reserves range and offers something special for those seeking a more refined tasting.
Spring is also a great time to pair wines with lighter still options like English Rose 2024, Bacchus 2024, Flint Dry 2024, or Chardonnay 2023, all of which are live products and available for purchase.
Practical Planning Tips
Book Ahead
If you intend to visit during peak spring weekends, it's sensible to book tours or dining experiences in advance. The winery's guided sessions and dining slots can fill up as the season warms and visitors make plans.
Dress for the Season
Spring weather can be changeable. Wear layers and comfortable walking shoes so you can fully enjoy vineyard walks, tours and outdoor spaces.
Timing
Allow at least half a day for your visit. Combining a tour, tasting and lunch or a shop visit with time to explore the grounds ensures your day feels relaxed rather than rushed.
Make It a Memorable Spring Visit
A spring day out at Chapel Down is more than a simple wine tasting. It is an opportunity to connect with the land, learn about English viticulture, savour expertly made wines and enjoy good food in a scenic setting. Whether you choose a guided tour, a tasting experience with food or a relaxed self-guided visit through the vineyards, Chapel Down offers an experience that reflects both the season and the craft behind every bottle.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Kent estate this spring and helping you create a memorable day outdoors with wine at its heart.
