English wines have recently developed a good reputation for themselves, particularly those produced from grapes grown in the vineyards of Kent, and some of the best are to be found in the Tunbridge Wells area.

Did you know that a fair chunk of the Wealden soil, or ‘terroir’, is extremely close in composition to that of the Champagne region and the best sparkling wine producing regions of France?

Since Kent used to be joined to France once upon a time, it shouldn’t really come as a surprise.

Biddenden Vineyard
Country vineyard by Lynda Grigs

Vineyard Tour

There are many more surprising sights and delights to be discovered in and around Tunbridge Wells, so come and exercise your tastebuds (and legs) for yourself!

Tours and tastings are available at the following vineyards:

  • Biddenden Vineyards is Kent’s oldest commercial vineyard producing award-winning still and sparkling English wines.
  • Chapel Down Winery near Tenterden, produces a range of award-winning still and sparkling wines from Tenterden and Aylesford vineyards.
  • Balfour Winery between Cranbrook and Staplehurst, famous for, and yes, you guessed it, award-winning, pink sparkling wine and sparkling cider!  You can order a hamper lunch too.
  • Squerryes Winery is set on 2,500 acres for the last 300 years and offer those special moments with friends and family while sharing their fine vintage sparkling wine. Together, enjoy the pleasures of life through delicious food and wine.
  • Wildwood Vineyard is a multi-award winning, family owned, boutique English Vineyard located just outside the village of Eridge, East Sussex, southwest of  Royal Tunbridge Wells and accessible via the Spa Valley Railway steam train from Tunbridge Wells West station.

A weekend or mid-week break would be an ideal period for making a tour of these estates. You might want to consider visiting one per day though to give your palate time to fully appreciate the tastings!

Wine Bars and Restaurants

Lots of bars and restaurants in the Tunbridge Wells area serve these delicious local wines as well as Kentish delicacies. If you are in Royal Tunbridge Wells, be sure to try Geography and the Wine Rooms or visit the Goudhurst Inn (part of Balfour winery) in the picturesque village of Goudhurst. Don’t miss the quaint village of Lamberhurst with its typical Kentish architecture. Just outside the village you will find the Vineyard, a cosy pub with rooms and a large garden and a selection of local wines.

Are you more of a Gin drinker?

We’ve got you covered! Tunbridge Wells offers many Gin bars and distilleries in the local area that should satisfy your needs.

Locals Recommendations

You may enjoy the following blogs written by residents:

Geography in the Wine Garden of England

Alternative Date Ideas In Tunbridge Wells

Be inspired and read more blogs here 

Lamberhurst Vines by Lynda Grigsby
Lamberhurst vineyards