Are you dreaming of a staycation that combines stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-class wine? Look no further than East Sussex, a gem in the south of England that boasts a burgeoning wine scene. With its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and now an ideal climate for viticulture, the region has become a prime destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers, who relish in having such a broad collection of East Sussex vineyards to choose from. Read on as we explore the wineries and estates that make this region a must-visit for your next staycation.
Oxney Organic Estate, Rye
The largest single-estate producer of English organic wine, Oxney Organic Estate covers 35 acres and is fully certified organic, with a philosophy rooted in sustainability and environmental responsibility. The estate produces exceptional still and sparkling wines using grapes grown without synthetic chemicals or fertilisers, its commitment to organic viticulture extending beyond the vineyard, with minimal intervention in the winery, too.
Visitors can enjoy in-depth, 90-minute behind-the-scenes tours that explain organic vineyard practices, followed by tastings of their elegant wines in a relaxed, rural setting (and a gorgeous picnic lunch if you take a morning tour!).
Oastbrook Estate, Bodiam
Located near Robertsbridge, Oastbrook Estate combines whimsical charm with serious winemaking credentials, having been voted one of the best wineries in Europe. This boutique vineyard produces award-winning English wines, including still whites, rosés, and sparkling blends, crafted with exceptional attention to detail.
Guests can join intimate tours and tastings led by the owners, Nick and America, who offer a fun-filled exploration of the estate and the wine produced, which is later enjoyed in the stunning tasting room overlooking the vines.
Carr Taylor Vineyard, Hastings
Just outside Hastings, you’ll find Carr Taylor Vineyard, a winery that has been welcoming wine lovers for over 50 years. This family-run estate was one of the first in the UK to produce traditional method sparkling wine, and continues to craft a wide variety of well-loved English wines today.
A visit to Carr Taylor feels wonderfully relaxed. Explore the self-guided vineyard trail, enjoy a guided tasting, or simply unwind in the tearoom with a cream tea and a glass of wine.
Mousehall Country Estate, Wadhurst
Located within the High Weald AONB, Mousehall Country Estate offers a unique experience at the intersection of natural beauty, heritage, and innovation. Located near Mayfield, this historic estate produces not only Tidebrook Wine, but also gin and vodka, giving guests a well-rounded taste of both Sussex and the owners’ South African craftsmanship.
The estate’s immersive tours include walks through the vineyard, a look inside their distillery, and generous tastings. With a backdrop of ancient woodland and the Oast House tasting room, Mousehall blends tradition and modernity in a beautifully curated visit.
Wildwood Vineyard, Tunbridge Wells
Wildwood Vineyard is a true hidden gem, tucked away in the quiet hills near Eridge. This small, sustainable vineyard specialises in still wines crafted with low-intervention techniques, allowing the fruit and terroir to shine in each bottle.
Tours and tastings are held most summer weekends, or can be arranged by appointment, creating a quiet, personal experience ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds. Whether sipping a crisp white or relaxing among the vines, Wildwood invites you to slow down and savour every drop.
Rathfinny Wine Estate, Alfriston
Set just a stone’s throw from the quaint village of Alfriston, Rathfinny Wine Estate is a stunning vineyard that offers much more than just wine tasting. Established in 2010, this family-owned estate has quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the finest sparkling wines in the UK.
Visitors to Rathfinny can enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and winery, learning about the meticulous processes involved in creating their wines. The estate also boasts a charming restaurant, The Tasting Room, where guests can savour seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, perfectly paired with Rathfinny wines.
Bluebell Vineyard Estates, Uckfield
Staying near Uckfield? Bluebell Vineyard Estates is known for its beautiful setting and diverse range of wines. The vineyard’s picturesque location, surrounded by woodlands and meadows, creates a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing day out. Bluebell produces both sparkling and still wines, with their Hindleap range of sparkling wines receiving particular acclaim.
The estate offers a variety of tours and tastings, providing insights into the winemaking process and the opportunity to sample their award-winning wines. One unique aspect of Bluebell Vineyard Estates is its proximity to the Bluebell Railway (approximately a 5-minute drive), a heritage steam railway that adds a touch of nostalgia to the visit.
Why East Sussex?
From the dramatic cliffs of the Seven Sisters and the sandy dunes of Camber to the rolling countryside and the medieval charm of Rye, East Sussex attracts visitors from the UK and beyond with its diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage. In recent years, the region has also emerged as a leading wine-producing area, thanks to its favourable climate and chalky soil – similar to that of the Champagne region in France. This transformation has led to the establishment of several award-winning vineyards, making East Sussex an ideal destination for a wine-focused getaway.
At Bloom Stays, we’ve come to know the region’s unique charm and hidden gems well, and have a selection of properties that complement any Sussex staycation. We’ve included a few below, but you can also explore our full Sussex collection here.
