Chapel Down Vineyard
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Chapel Down Winery

4.7
·901 reviews·, United Kingdom

Award-winning English winery offering vineyard tours, wine tastings, and fine dining with stunning countryside views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring to early Autumn mornings

Enjoy the vineyard in bloom

CrowdMedium
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Chapel Down Vineyard

Chapel Down Winery

Best Time

Spring to early Autumn mornings

Enjoy the vineyard in bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Award-winning English winery offering vineyard tours, wine tastings, and fine dining with stunning countryside views.

4.7
(901 reviews)

"Without doubt the best wine tour I have ever done. The vineyard is beautiful and the facilities first class."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tours Ahead! :ticket:

Popular tours sell out fast. Book your Chapel Down winery visit online well in advance to guarantee your spot.

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be walking through the vineyard, so comfortable footwear is a must for the guided tours.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vineyard Guided Tour

Vineyard Guided Tour

Chapel Down Vineyard

Explore the stunning vines, learn about English winemaking, and discover the secrets behind Chapel Down's acclaimed wines.

Wine Tasting Experience

Wine Tasting Experience

Chapel Down Winery

Savor a selection of Chapel Down's finest English wines, guided by experts who'll teach you the art of wine appreciation.

The Swan Wine Kitchen

The Swan Wine Kitchen

Chapel Down Estate

Enjoy delicious, seasonal dishes perfectly paired with Chapel Down wines, set against picturesque vineyard backdrops.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Chapel Down offers popular guided tours and wine tastings. Booking ahead is essential, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Consider the 'Wine & Dine' experience for a full afternoon of indulgence.

Best Time for Sunshine & Views

While tours run year-round, visiting during warmer months (spring to early autumn) offers the best chance for sunshine to enjoy the vineyard views. Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded than weekends.

Best Times

When
Spring to early Autumn mornings
Why
Enjoy the vineyard in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
October
Why
Autumn colors, harvest vibes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ahead of our Chapel Down Paired Wine Dinner the team were invited to a tour of the vineyard and winery before a tasting of the wines being served on the 25th of June 🍾 Thank you Henry, @chapeldown for inviting us! Call 01622 767819 to book a ticket for own wine paired dinner or head to our link in bio 🔗 #winetour #winetasting #ChapelDown #Graysons #LeedsCastle
castleviewrestaurant_lc
14 likes • 714 views

Book Tours Ahead! :ticket:

Popular tours sell out fast. Book your Chapel Down winery visit online well in advance to guarantee your spot. Instagram

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be walking through the vineyard, so comfortable footwear is a must for the guided tours. Reddit

Chapel Down Winery & Little Silver Hotel! Who doesn't love a country weekend away. Check it out on @virginexperiencedays #twinsbetrippin #twinsofinstagram #explore #travel #travelpage #explorer #twins #2024trending #tour #wine #fun #trending #instagram #experience #follow #content #creator #uk #exploring #kent #dayout #activities #countrylife #thingstodo #thingstodoinkent
twinsbetrippin
0 likes • 946 views
This time last week I was sipping wine in the sunshine at Chapel Down! We enjoyed a tour of the vineyard followed by a wine tasting and delicious dinner at the Swan Restaurant. An overnight stay at the White Lion in Tenterten made for a wonderful weekend. I would highly recommend 🥂
catherinewestoby_design
6 likes • 185 views

Learn Wine Tasting :wine_glass:

Pay attention during the tasting session; you'll learn the four essential steps: observe, smell, sip, and finish. Instagram

Don't Miss The Swan :fork_and_knife:

The Swan Wine Kitchen offers exquisite food paired with Chapel Down wines, making for a perfect afternoon or evening. Instagram

Chapel Down Winery really rocked our world! The wine and food were equally exquisite. We learned the four essential steps to wine tasting! 1. Observe 2. Smell 3. Sip 4. Finish A perfect Saturday excursion! @chapeldown With love, R&N 💕 #reels #foodporn #winery #wine #explore #instagood #love #london #blogger #foodie #travel
thetrufflers
50 likes • 441 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tours Ahead! :ticket:

Popular tours sell out fast. Book your Chapel Down winery visit online well in advance to guarantee your spot. Instagram

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be walking through the vineyard, so comfortable footwear is a must for the guided tours. Reddit

Learn Wine Tasting :wine_glass:

Pay attention during the tasting session; you'll learn the four essential steps: observe, smell, sip, and finish. Instagram

Don't Miss The Swan :fork_and_knife:

The Swan Wine Kitchen offers exquisite food paired with Chapel Down wines, making for a perfect afternoon or evening. Instagram

Shop for Souvenirs :shopping_cart:

The winery shop has a full range of Chapel Down wines and spirits, often with special offers. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(901 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Chapel Down for its exceptional wine tours and tastings, highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guides. The quality of the wine, particularly the sparkling varieties, is a major draw, complemented by delicious food at The Swan Wine Kitchen and beautiful vineyard scenery. The overall experience is described as professional, enjoyable, and great value for money.

"My wife and i bought a Wine and Dine experience for Our Sister for her 60th Birthday and had a really wonderful experience.
The Wine tour was very informative and the Wine tasting was very professionally done. I was expecting it to be far more commercial than it was, which made the experience even better.
The staff were all very nice and well informed.
The food served was very tasty and well presented and served with paired wines all within the price.
All in all a really nice afternoon."

keith smith

"Without doubt the best wine tour I have ever done. The vineyard is beautiful and the facilities first class. We started with a glass of the top sparkling. Our guide Russell was superb combining knowledge with good humour and a professional attitude. The wine tasting was generous, informative and varied with five wines tasted. Lunch was very good in the upstairs restaurant. Staff were lovely and food on point. It is an absolute bargain given what you get. We went today(October 20th) so only 9 in our group. A bigger group in peak season would still, I’m sure be enjoyable but I loved the small group. Highly recommended the tour and lunch"

Brian Grant

"We booked the Tour & Wine Tasting for ourselves and children and partners as a present. We love Chapel Down and have visited before, so wanted to share with the kids. The place has developed so much since our first visit in early 2000s. The tour was led by Andrew and he was great. A real good level of information delivered with humour and without and of the wine snobbery you get sometimes. All the wines we tasted were wonderful and generous measures. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it."

Paul McKerrell

What People Like

Informative and engaging tours
Generous wine tastings
Delicious food and wine pairings

What People Dislike

Can be busy during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chapel Down is located in Tenterden, Kent. Many visitors drive, as it's easily accessible by car. Public transport options include taking a train to nearby stations like Headcorn or Ashford International, followed by a taxi or local bus service. Check local bus routes for the most direct options to Tenterden. Instagram

Yes, Chapel Down Winery offers ample parking for visitors. It's convenient for those arriving by car, making it easy to access the winery and restaurant facilities. Instagram

While tours are highly recommended for the full experience, you can visit the shop and The Swan Wine Kitchen without booking a specific tour. However, booking a tour or tasting is the best way to explore the vineyard and learn about the wines. Instagram

From London, you can take a train to Ashford International and then a taxi to Chapel Down. Alternatively, driving is a popular option, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Instagram

Yes, there are several charming accommodations near Chapel Down, including hotels and inns in Tenterden and surrounding villages. Some visitors have enjoyed stays at places like The White Lion in Tenterden. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour prices vary depending on the specific experience, such as the guided vineyard tour or the 'Wine & Dine' package. It's best to check the official Chapel Down website for the most up-to-date pricing and booking information. Reddit

Absolutely! It is highly recommended to book your Chapel Down tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season, as they are very popular and can sell out. InstagramReddit

A typical wine tasting at Chapel Down includes a guided sampling of several of their acclaimed English wines, often accompanied by explanations of their characteristics and the winemaking process. Some experiences may include generous pours. InstagramReddit

Opening hours for the winery, shop, and restaurant can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the Chapel Down website for the most current operating hours before your visit. Instagram

Yes, the Chapel Down winery shop offers their full range of wines and spirits, often with the same special offers available online. It's a great place to purchase your favorite bottles. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Chapel Down features The Swan Wine Kitchen, a restaurant offering delicious seasonal dishes perfectly paired with their wines. It's a popular spot for lunch or dinner. InstagramReddit

The Swan Wine Kitchen serves a menu focused on seasonal, local produce, designed to complement Chapel Down's wines. Expect beautifully presented dishes that enhance the tasting experience. InstagramReddit

Chapel Down offers a 'Wine & Dine' experience that includes a vineyard tour, wine tasting, and a three-course meal at The Swan Wine Kitchen, with wines expertly paired for each course. InstagramReddit

While specific menu details can change, The Swan Wine Kitchen typically offers a range of options. It's recommended to check their current menu or contact them directly regarding vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary requirements. Instagram

The Swan Wine Kitchen is a full-service restaurant, but you can often enjoy wine by the glass without a full meal. The winery shop also offers some local produce that might be suitable for a light snack. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Chapel Down. The vineyard offers stunning scenery, making it a picturesque spot for photos. Instagram+1

The rolling hills of the vineyard, especially during golden hour, are fantastic for photos. The winery buildings and the restaurant terrace also offer beautiful backdrops. Instagram

Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with Chapel Down directly before flying a drone on their property to ensure compliance with any regulations or restrictions. Instagram

Capture the rows of vines stretching across the landscape, the modern winery facilities, and the charming setting of The Swan Wine Kitchen. Sunset views over the vineyard are particularly breathtaking. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good lens for landscapes and detail shots would be ideal. A smartphone camera is also excellent for capturing the beauty of the vineyard and wines. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Chapel Down is primarily a winery, families can still enjoy a visit. The expansive vineyard offers space for children to explore (under supervision), and the scenic views are pleasant for all ages. The Swan Wine Kitchen can accommodate families, though the menu is wine-focused. Consider booking a tour that might have more visual elements to keep younger visitors engaged, or focus on the beautiful grounds. Instagram

🥂 Couples & Wine Enthusiasts

Chapel Down is an ideal destination for couples and serious wine lovers. The guided tours provide in-depth knowledge, and the wine tastings offer a chance to savor award-winning English sparkling wine and still wines. The romantic setting of the vineyard, especially during warmer months, makes it perfect for a special outing. The 'Wine & Dine' experience is particularly suited for a romantic afternoon or evening. InstagramReddit

✈️ Day-Trippers from London

Chapel Down makes for an excellent day trip from London. It's easily reachable by car or a combination of train and taxi. A half-day or full-day visit can be structured around a vineyard tour and wine tasting, followed by lunch at The Swan Wine Kitchen. This offers a refreshing escape to the countryside with a sophisticated culinary and oenological experience. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of English Winemaking at Chapel Down

Chapel Down is at the forefront of the burgeoning English wine industry, specializing in traditional method sparkling wines and still wines. Their success is attributed to the unique terroir of Kent, often referred to as the 'Garden of England,' which provides ideal conditions for grape growing. The winery meticulously manages its vineyards, focusing on grape varietals like Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, which thrive in the English climate. Visitors on a Chapel Down vineyard tour get an in-depth look at the entire process, from soil preparation and vine management to harvesting and fermentation. Instagram+1

The winery employs modern techniques alongside traditional craftsmanship to produce award-winning wines. They emphasize sustainability and a deep understanding of the local environment. The guided tours are designed to be educational and engaging, demystifying the complexities of winemaking for both novices and enthusiasts. You'll learn about the specific challenges and advantages of growing grapes in the UK, and how Chapel Down overcomes them to produce wines that rival international standards. InstagramReddit

Key to their quality is the Chapel Down sparkling wine range, which has garnered significant international acclaim. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle, from the crisp Chapel Down Classic Brut to the more complex single-vineyard offerings like Kit's Coty. For those interested in still wines, the Chapel Down Bacchus wine is a popular choice, known for its aromatic profile. Exploring the range during a Chapel Down wine tasting is a highlight for many visitors. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing Chapel Down: Tours, Tastings, and Dining

A visit to Chapel Down is more than just a tasting; it's an immersive experience. The Chapel Down experiences range from comprehensive guided tours of the vineyard and winery to dedicated wine tasting sessions. Guides like Andrew and Russell are frequently praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to make the wine education accessible and enjoyable, avoiding any 'wine snobbery.' InstagramReddit

The tours often cover the grape-to-glass journey, explaining the fermentation process and the nuances of English winemaking. The wine tastings are generous, allowing guests to sample a variety of Chapel Down's offerings, including their renowned Chapel Down sparkling wine and still wines like the Bacchus wine Chapel Down. Many visitors find the tasting sessions to be a highlight, providing a deeper appreciation for the wines. InstagramReddit

Complementing the wine is The Swan Wine Kitchen, located on the Chapel Down grounds. This restaurant offers a superb dining experience with seasonal menus designed to pair perfectly with the estate's wines. The 'Wine & Dine' experience, which combines a tour, tasting, and a three-course meal, is highly recommended for a complete and memorable day out. InstagramReddit+1

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