A Sussex vineyard where glowing hay bales ward off frost, helping to cultivate distinctive English sparkling wines.
Best Vineyards by Public Transport in West Sussex
Downs‑side vineyards can be closer to stations than you’d think. A brief taxi ride (pre‑booked) turns rail trips into relaxed tastings. Keep an eye on return times and you’re set.
Downs‑side vineyards can be closer to stations than you’d think. A brief taxi ride (pre‑booked) turns rail trips into relaxed tastings. Keep an eye on return times and you’re set.
Featured vineyards
The 30-minute walk from Pulborough station leads into the serene, historic hamlet of Stopham, nestled in the South Downs National Park. Views are stunning, encompassing the South Downs, the River Arun, and the 11th-century St Mary The Virgin church. The route, often over uneven ground with some hills, requires sensible shoes and is unsuitable for wheelchairs, though generally good for walking year-round with boots in wet conditions. Along the way, you'll encounter the Grade II listed 15th-century Stopham Bridge and the White Hart pub overlooking the river. While no specific wildlife is mentioned for the direct path, the rural setting and proximity to RSPB Pulborough Brooks suggest natural surroundings. For those opting not to walk, taxis can be arranged, but booking ahead is essential.
The walk from Burgess Hill station to Ridgeview Wine Estate is around 30 to 40 minutes, starting through the urban areas of Burgess Hill before transitioning to more rural surroundings. The route involves a gentle uphill start on Station Road, continuing along Keymer Road past the Burgess Hill School for Girls, and then onto Folders Lane and Stroudley Drive, concluding with a stile leading directly into the estate. While the initial section passes through developed areas, the destination itself offers picturesque views overlooking the South Downs, including Ditchling Beacon, and the vineyards. Ridgeview welcomes walkers year-round, even those in muddy boots, and provides amenities for those arriving on foot, such as rucksack storage, basic first aid essentials, and complimentary water refills. The walk is generally suitable for most walking abilities, with some moderate inclines. For those preferring not to walk, taxis are readily available from Burgess Hill station, with local options like Station Taxis, and the journey takes approximately ten minutes pre-booking is advisable.
the walk from Kingscote Station to Kingscote Estate takes approximately 30 minutes following the direct route, or 45 minutes for a return via a woodland path. This under-1-mile journey passes through picturesque Sussex countryside, offering views of lakes, vineyards, and natural woodland. The route navigates country lanes and tracks, going under a railway bridge and past farm buildings and a pond, providing a rural experience. While the estate itself has some uneven ground, general accessibility is noted, though the paths can be rougher in places. Amenities are available at Kingscote Station, which has a picnic area and, in summer, offers drinks and snacks. Dogs on leads are welcome in the vineyard's shop, gardens, and woodland walks. For those preferring not to walk, taxis can be arranged, and it's a 10-minute drive from the station to the vineyard local taxis can also be picked up from East Grinstead Station (mainline).