Beacon Down Vineyard

Come and discover Beacon Down Vineyard, a tranquil, family-run estate nestled in the South Downs, where award-winning traditional method English sparkling wines are meticulously crafted.

https://beacondown.co.uk/

Beacon Down Vineyard, Browns Lane, Cross in Hand, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 0QJ. Get directions

Nearest station: Buxted (5.3 miles).

Public tours

Self-guided tours

Tasting room

Dog friendly

Child friendly

Online shop

Walking trail

Disabled access

Award-winning

Organic or sustainable

While we update listings frequently, we suggest confirming important details with the vineyard to avoid any surprises.

What's the vibe

Beacon Down Vineyard offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking views across the High Weald towards Eastbourne and the South Downs. It's a charming, family-run vineyard that provides engaging tours led by knowledgeable owners, perfect for a relaxed exploration and enjoyment of fine English wine.

Visiting information

Opening Season: The vineyard is typically open through the spring and summer months. During autumn and winter, it's advisable to call in advance before visiting.Tours & Tastings: Guided tours and tutored tastings are available and can be pre-booked for an in-depth experience. In August, the vineyard hosts free tasting afternoons on Saturdays, offering a chance to stroll through the vines and enjoy a glass in the sunshine. Picnic experiences featuring local produce are also offered.Facilities: While there isn't a full restaurant or cafe, the vineyard provides delicious picnic lunches.
Special Events: Beyond regular tours and tastings, the vineyard can also accommodate corporate events.
Accommodation: There is no on-site accommodation. However, local options such as guesthouses and self-catering cottages are available nearby.
Children & Dogs: Beacon Down Vineyard is family-friendly, welcoming both children (with some activities available) and dogs.

The Wine

Beacon Down Vineyard produces a range of acclaimed still and sparkling wines, drawing from their 18-acre site in the High Weald. Their sparkling wine portfolio includes a vibrant Blanc de Noirs from 100% Pinot Noir, a refreshing Rosé de Noirs also made from Pinot Noir, and an elegant Blanc de Blancs crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes, which underwent extended ageing for exceptional refinement. Their still wines feature varieties such as Bacchus, Pinot Gris, and a unique Riesling.

Their wines have garnered numerous accolades. The Blanc de Noirs has received multiple awards, including two Silver Awards at the Sommelier Wine Awards 2020 and a Silver at the International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) in 2020. The 2018 Blanc de Noirs vintage was also awarded 4 stars by Harpers Wine Stars 2022. Their Rosé de Noirs (2018 vintage) similarly earned praise from IWSC judges and 4 out of 5 stars from Harpers Wine Stars 2022. The Blanc de Blancs (2017 vintage) achieved a Silver Medal with 93 points at the Decanter 2024 awards. The 2018 Riesling earned a Bronze award and was featured on ITV's 'Love your Weekend'.

The vineyard operates with a sustainable approach, aiming to minimise inputs and intervention wherever possible throughout their winemaking process. They do not use active frost protection measures, relying on the site's natural south-east facing slopes for protection. The owners are hands-on, personally tending the vines year-round and ensuring precise care in their winery operations, overseeing everything from grape growing to bottling.

Getting here

Beacon Down Vineyard is located at Browns Lane, Cross in Hand, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 0QJ.

By Car
Parking is available on-site. The vineyard entrance is a farm gate approximately 300 yards down Browns Lane from Firgrove Road.

By Public Transport
The nearest bus stop is a 10-minute walk along Firgrove Road. Bus routes 29A connect Brighton & Hove, Lewes, and Uckfield, while route 51 links to Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne. Other services include the 195, 225, 318, and 331.

What's nearby

Discover local highlights to complement your vineyard visit:

Other Vineyards: Located nearby is Hidden Spring Vineyard, another East Sussex producer situated in Horam.
Restaurants:
- The Heathfield Tavern – A welcoming family-run pub in Heathfield offering a broad selection of home-cooked, locally-sourced food and real ales.
- The Star Inn – A 14th-century inn in Old Heathfield featuring traditional and international cuisine made with seasonal produce, alongside inglenook fireplaces.
Hotels:
- The Blackboys Inn – A 14th-century coaching inn offering charming bed and breakfast rooms and a locally sourced, seasonal menu, nestled between Heathfield and Halland.
Attractions:
- Herstmonceux Castle – A magnificent 15th-century brick-built castle with beautiful gardens and an on-site science centre, located about 25 minutes away.
- Bateman's (Rudyard Kipling's Home) – The Jacobean country home of author Rudyard Kipling, preserved by the National Trust, featuring his study and family belongings, approximately 20 minutes away.