Tucked away in the tranquil Kent countryside, Chapel Down offers a warm welcome to guests seeking a relaxing and rewarding day out. We're proud to call Tenterden home, and there's no better way to experience English wine country than by taking a walk through our vineyard, sampling our wines, and taking in the views across the North Downs.
Getting Here
We're based just outside Tenterden, a historic market town in the heart of Kent. If you're coming from London, the journey takes just over an hour by car or train, making it an ideal day trip. Once you arrive you'll find ample free parking, and the estate is easy to navigate on foot.
Our opening hours and visitor information can always be found on the "Visit Us" section of our website, and we recommend booking ahead if you're planning to join a tour or tasting session, especially at weekends or during holidays.
Exploring the Estate
The vineyard is open for visitors to enjoy at their own pace. We encourage guests to take a walk among the vines, where they can soak in the peaceful atmosphere and get a closer look at the land that shapes our wines. There are wide, well-kept paths throughout the estate and plenty of quiet spots to stop and take in the view.
Whatever time of year you choose to visit us, there is something to stop and admire in the vineyards and countryside we’re proud to call home.
Tours and Tastings
One of the most popular ways to experience Chapel Down is to book one of our guided tours. These sessions take you behind the scenes of our winery and provide you with a special insight into the remarkable craft of our winemaking team. You’ll learn about the Traditional Method we use to make our sparkling wine, discover how we work with the Kentish soil and climate and much more besides. It's an informative and engaging way to get closer to English winemaking.
After a tour around our vineyards and winemaking facilities, you’ll be treated to a guided tasting through five of our award-winning wines by a member of our knowledgeable team. Having seen first hand the incredible time, care and skill that goes into making our wine, you’ll be able to taste the fruits of our labour in your glass with a carefully selected flight of still and sparkling wines.
If you'd rather go straight to the tasting, we also offer dedicated sessions that focus purely on sampling without the full tour. It's a relaxed, enjoyable experience and an excellent way to explore new favourites.
Wine by the Glass
For those not taking a tour, our Winery Shop serves a selection of wines by the glass. It's a great opportunity to enjoy a leisurely drink on the lawn or take it with you on a stroll through the grounds. In the summer, our Horsebox bar offers an additional wine-by-the-glass service from a scenic spot overlooking the vines.
Our Shop
After your tasting, we invite you to explore our on-site shop. You'll find our full range of wines, including limited editions and exclusive releases, as well as gifts and accessories. Many guests like to pick up a bottle of their favourite wine from the tasting, or a gift for someone special.
We also offer a personalisation service, so you can create a bespoke bottle with a message for birthdays, anniversaries or other celebrations.
Dining on Site
Visitors are welcome to enjoy a picnic during the summer months. You're free to bring your own food and settle into a quiet corner of the estate to enjoy it. When open, the Horsebox bar also offers light refreshments.
If you're looking for stylish restaurant dining onsite, The Swan offers seasonal dishes crafted from local ingredients. Bookings are recommended, and more information can be found on our website.
Explore Tenterden
Tenterden is a charming town with plenty to offer. After visiting the vineyard, we suggest taking some time to explore the high street and home to independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs. The nearby Kent & East Sussex Railway is another highlight. You can hop on a heritage steam train and enjoy a scenic journey through the countryside.
For those staying longer, there are lovely places to stay in and around Tenterden, allowing you to turn your visit into a short break.
Planning Your Visit
We're open all year round, and each season has something unique to offer. Spring and summer are ideal for seeing the vineyard in full growth, while autumn is harvest time and brings with it a dynamic, exciting energy. In winter the estate is quieter, it’s a time of serenity that pairs perfectly with a glass of something warming.
We recommend booking your tour and any tastings in advance, especially at peak times. You'll find all the information you need on our website, including tour times, prices, and booking options.
Raise a Glass with Us
Whether you're here for an afternoon or making a weekend of it, we hope your visit to Chapel Down leaves you inspired and relaxed. Our team is always on hand to answer questions, recommend wines, or simply share our love for what we do.
We look forward to welcoming you to our home soon.
