A Guide to Exploring Vineyards from Appledore

Best times to visit

Spring and summer bring wildflower walks across the Romney Marsh and longer opening hours at vineyards. Autumn is the highlight, when Gusbourne and Chapel Down celebrate harvest with tastings and tours. Winter is quieter, though vineyards remain open for cellar door sales and some festive events.

The vineyards near Appledore

This is prime Kent wine country. Within 10 minutes you’ll find, one of England’s flagship sparkling producers. Within 20 minutes are,, and. Between them you get the full spectrum: polished sparkling wine estates, organic pioneers, and Tillingham’s experimental natural wines.

What else is there to do in Appledore?

Wander the historic high street with its antique shops.

Explore St Peter and St Paul’s Church, dating to the 14th century.

Head out across the Romney Marsh for walks, birdwatching, or quiet cycling routes.

Nearby Rye (10 minutes) offers more history, shops, and dining.

Where to eat and drink in Appledore

• Budget: proper afternoon tea, sandwiches, and cakes.
• Create a splash: 15th-century inn with seasonal menus and local wines.
• Push the boat out: Dine at Tillingham’s restaurant for creative small plates with natural wine pairings, or The Swan at Chapel Down (20 minutes) for fine dining with a Sussex and Kent wine focus.

For supplies: Appledore Antiques & Collectables doubles as a quirky shop, but Rye is better for delis and wine merchants.

Where to stay

• historic inn with boutique rooms, from £130.

Tillingham (20 minutes) - vineyard rooms from £140, with views over the vines.

Airbnb cottages in Appledore village or Romney Marsh, from £90.

FAQs about Appledore vineyard weekends

• Can you get to Appledore by train?
  Yes - Appledore station (Southeastern line) is 2 miles from the village, then a taxi.
  
• Can you reach vineyards from Appledore by public transport?
  Not directly. Gusbourne is a 5-minute taxi; others (Chapel Down, Oxney, Tillingham) are 15-20 minutes by car.
  
• Which vineyards are near Appledore?
  Gusbourne (5 mins), Chapel Down (20 mins), Oxney Organic (20 mins), Tillingham (20 mins).
  
• Where can you try local wines in Appledore?
  The Black Lion pub stocks Kentish wines. For full experiences, book tastings at Gusbourne, Chapel Down, or Tillingham.
  
• Are there vineyard stays near Appledore?
  Not in the village, but Tillingham (20 mins) offers vineyard rooms, and Chapel Down partners with local hotels.
  
• Is Appledore a good base for a vineyard weekend?
  Yes - small, peaceful, and surrounded by four of the most interesting English producers.