A Guide to Exploring Vineyards from Rye

Best times to visit

Spring (April-May): A good time for walking across the Romney Marsh or to Camber Sands, with wildflowers out and quieter vineyard tours before summer crowds.

Summer (June-August): Peak season for vineyard visits and long evenings in Rye’s pubs and wine bars. Camber Sands is at its most popular, and Tillingham hosts events like outdoor suppers.

Autumn (September-October): Harvest season - Gusbourne, Chapel Down, and Tillingham often run special tours or tastings linked to picking. Rye itself holds the (late September).

Winter (November-February): Quieter in town, but vineyards remain open for tastings and cellar-door sales. Rye’s cosy inns and wine bars make it a good off-season retreat.

The vineyards near Rye

Rye sits within 20-30 minutes of some of the UK’s most exciting producers:,,, and. Expect everything from natural wines and orange wines (Tillingham) to polished sparklings from Gusbourne.

What else is there to do in Rye?

Wander cobbled Mermaid Street, with its medieval houses and historic pubs.

Visit Rye Castle Museum and St Mary’s Church for history.

Explore independent shops, antique stores, and galleries.

Take a short trip to Camber Sands for one of the best beaches in the southeast.

Where to eat and drink in Rye

• Budget: classic fish and chips.
• Create a splash: gastropub with a focus on local ingredients and wines.
• Push the boat out: upscale dining, with a wine list including English bottles.

Wine lovers should also stop by, a boutique wine shop and bar with English bottles often available by the glass.

Where to stay

• stylish hotel in the centre, from £180.
• historic inn with cellars dating to 1156, from £150.

Boutique B&Bs and Airbnbs across the town, from £100.

FAQs about Rye vineyard weekends

• Can you get to Rye by train?
  Yes - Rye is on the Hastings-Ashford line, with connections from London.
  
• Can you reach vineyards from Rye by public transport?
  Not directly. Taxis are needed for Tillingham, Oxney, Chapel Down, and Gusbourne (all within 20-30 minutes).
  
• Which vineyards are near Rye?
  Tillingham (15 mins), Oxney Organic (15 mins), Chapel Down (25 mins), Gusbourne (30 mins).
  
• Where can you try local wines in Rye?
  Rye Fine Wines is a dedicated shop and bar, and The George in Rye features English wines on its list.
  
• Are there vineyard stays near Rye?
  Yes - Tillingham offers vineyard rooms, and Chapel Down has local accommodation packages.
  
• Is Rye a good base for a vineyard weekend?
  Yes - it combines history, boutique shopping, and excellent access to four leading vineyards.