A Guide to Visiting the best Vineyards near Midhurst
Best times to visit Return to contents
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 Return to contents
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.
Wineries in Midhurst Return to contents
All 4 vineyards near Midhurst produce their wines on site.
Roebuck Estates
Roebuck Estates is dedicated to producing exceptional vintage sparkling wines, employing the traditional method. Public tours and tastings are available.
Wiston Estate
Home to breathtaking views, wine with royal connections, and surely one of the UK's best vineyard restaurant. Public tours and tastings are available.
Ashling Park Estate
Ashling Park Estate is renowned for producing a range of acclaimed English still and sparkling wines from grapes grown on its 50-acre West Sussex estate. Public tours and tastings are available.
Nyetimber
Nyetimber produces traditional-method English sparkling wine using estate-grown Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier . Public tours take in the winery and production area.
What else is there to do in Midhurst? Return to contents
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 Return to contents
- 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.
Where to stay Return to contents
Ashling Park - futuristic vineyard lodges set among the vines, from £275 per night.
The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa - historic timber-framed hotel with spa facilities, from £160.
Cowdray Holiday Cottages - self-catering cottages across the estate, from around £130.
Budget-friendly: Nearby Premier Inn Chichester (20 minutes’ drive) offers simple but reliable stays.
