A Guide to Exploring Vineyards from Midhurst

Midhurst is a historic market town in the heart of the South Downs National Park, about halfway between Guildford and Chichester. It’s best known for Cowdray Park, the “home of British polo”, and the romantic ruins of Cowdray House. Unlike some chocolate-box villages, Midhurst feels properly lived-in: a mix of medieval, Georgian and Victorian buildings, indie shops, and just enough bustle to keep things interesting. It’s also within a cork’s pop of several excellent Sussex vineyards.

Best times to visit

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Summer is when polo season is in full swing at Cowdray, and the town takes on a slightly glamorous feel as well-heeled spectators descend. Autumn is beautiful for South Downs walking, with easy trails starting right from town. Winter can be cosy too, especially if you’re drawn to historic pubs with roaring fires. Vineyards nearby open for tastings most of the year, though tours and events are clustered spring-autumn.

The vineyards near Midhurst

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Within 20 minutes you’ll find Upperton, Ashling Park and Tinwood, with Nyetimber just a little further. They’re mostly sparkling specialists, but each with their own character - Ashling Park in particular is known for its slick visitor centre. Drive 30 minutes and you can add Wiston Estate and Roebuck Estates to your hit list.

What else is there to do in Midhurst?

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Besides Cowdray’s polo grounds and atmospheric Tudor ruins, the town has independent bookshops, antique centres and a few good galleries. The Rother Valley offers riverside strolls, and the South Downs Discovery Centre is here too - a good starting point for anyone keen to explore further on foot.

Where to eat and drink in Midhurst

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Budget: The Cowdray Farm Shop Café - wholesome breakfasts, light lunches, and plenty of local produce for picnics.
Create a splash: The Olive & Vine - a friendly Mediterranean restaurant with a broad wine list.
Push the boat out: The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa - modern British dining in a 15th-century coaching inn, with Sussex wines on the menu.

For wine lovers, the Spread Eagle usually has English sparkling by the glass, and Cowdray’s farm shop stocks bottles from local vineyards if you’d rather self-cater.