Visiting the best Vineyards near Alfriston

Alfriston has year-round charm, though spring and summer see the Downs at their best. Bluebell season in April/May makes the surrounding woodlands glow, and autumn brings the grape harvest atmosphere to local vineyards. The village itself hosts events like the Alfriston Festival (late August, details), with processions and fairs that are more quirky than touristy. Vineyards like Rathfinny run tours from spring to autumn, while tastings are available year-round.

This is one of the most vineyard-dense spots in Sussex. Rathfinny Wine Estate is practically on the doorstep, famous for its Sussex sparkling wines and slick visitor experience. Within 15 minutes’ drive are Breaky Bottom, Hidden Spring, and Long Man (okay, technically beer, but worth noting). Go a little further and you can add Artelium and Bluebell Vineyard. Expect sparkling wines in abundance, with some small producers also making characterful stills.

Vineyards to visit from Alfriston

These are the vineyards scheduled to be open this weekend based on our most recent checks. Remember to check directly with the vineyard before heading out, or to book in advance where visits require a pre-booked tour or tasting. Find more information about opening times on the vineyard listing, or head to the map to search for vineyards open on a specific day or month.

3 of 6 vineyards below are open to walk-ins this weekend, Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October.

Rathfinny Wine Estate

BN26 5TU

Open this weekend

Mon10am to 5pm

Tue10am to 5pm

Wed10am to 5pm

Thu10am to 5pm

Fri10am to 5pm

Sat10am to 5pm

Sun10am to 5pm

Hidden Spring Vineyard

TN21 0HG

This weekend: Fri and Sat

MonClosed

TueClosed

WedClosed

Thu12pm to 5:30pm

Fri12pm to 5:30pm

Sat12pm to 5:30pm

SunClosed

Off The Line

BN27 4EA

Open this weekend

MonClosed

TueClosed

WedClosed

Thu12pm to 5pm

Fri12pm to 5pm, 12pm to 8pm

Sat12pm to 5pm, 12pm to 8pm

Sun12pm to 5pm

Henners Vineyard

BN27 1RJ

Closed this weekend

We expect the vineyard to reopen in April 2027.

See all opening times on the vineyard page

Breaky Bottom Vineyard

Tours not running

Tours here are not running at the moment. Booking is required, so check dates with the vineyard.

How to arrange a visit, on their website

The Secret Vineyard

BN27 4RS

Tours not running

Tours here are not running at the moment. Booking is required, so check dates with the vineyard.

How to arrange a visit, on their website

Alfriston Clergy House - the first ever National Trust property, a timber-framed gem with cottage gardens.

The Cuckmere River meanders just outside the village, leading down to the sea at the Seven Sisters cliffs - one of the most iconic coastal walks in the UK.

Poke around the village green and shops, which still feel more “village” than “curated experience”.

• Budget: Badgers Tea House - hearty sandwiches, soups, and cream teas.
• Create a splash: The Star Inn - historic coaching inn reinvented as a boutique hotel with a good English wine list.
• Push the boat out: Rathfinny Tasting Room Restaurant - modern fine dining with vineyard views, local ingredients, and Rathfinny wines on tap (literally).

You’ll also find several traditional pubs, like the George Inn, which mix heritage with a pint-and-pie sensibility.

For self-caterers, Much Ado Books isn’t a deli, but you will leave stocked with reading material for your wine-fuelled afternoons. For actual food: try Deans Place Hotel’s farm shop or head into Lewes for bigger supplies.

Rathfinny Flint Barns - rustic yet stylish vineyard accommodation, from £135 per night, perfect for groups or solo travellers.

The Star Inn - chic boutique hotel in a 15th-century inn, from £170.

Deans Place Hotel - country house hotel with gardens and pool, from £150.

For budget: smaller B&Bs and Airbnbs in the village start from around £90.