Breaky Bottom Vineyard

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Breaky Bottom sits in a secluded dry valley of the South Downs near Rodmell, on the same belt of chalk that runs to Champagne. Peter Hall planted the vineyard in 1974, on a farm where the family had kept pigs since 1968, and went on to be called the father of the contemporary English wine scene. Since his death in October 2025 the family has kept the vineyard running. Every wine is sparkling, and each cuvée is named for a friend or family member.

The vineyard is open by appointment only. Group tours of the vineyard and winery last approximately two hours and are priced from £15 per person, usually for a minimum of six people. The tour includes tastings and the chance to buy bottles or cases directly from the cellar door. To arrange a visit, check the website for details.

Wines are also available to buy through the online shop at breakybottom.co.uk.

Breaky Bottom is renowned for its exceptional traditional method sparkling wines. While the vineyard initially produced still wines, it has since focused exclusively on sparkling varieties. The wines are crafted primarily from Seyval Blanc, a grape first planted at the vineyard in 1974, alongside the classic Champagne varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Each year, the vineyard typically produces two distinct cuvées, one featuring Seyval Blanc and another combining the traditional Champagne grapes. These wines undergo extended ageing on their lees, contributing to their renowned complexity and finesse.

The wines from Breaky Bottom have consistently received critical acclaim. Their 1990 Seyval Blanc won a Gold Medal at the International Wine Challenge in 1993. More recently, at the Decanter World Wine Awards, the 2018 Cuvée Geoffrey Aldred was awarded a prestigious Gold Medal with 95 points, one of only six Gold Medals given to UK entries in that competition year. Other recent accolades include Silver and Bronze medals for their 2019 and 2018 vintages at the Decanter World Wine Awards. In 2023, the 2016 Cuvée Marraine Pooks (100% Seyval Blanc) also secured a Gold medal at the WineGB Awards. In November 2024, owner Peter Hall was awarded the F.I.C.B. Diploma of Honour by The Wine Guild of the United Kingdom, recognising his five decades of pioneering contributions to English wine.

Breaky Bottom Vineyard operates its own winery on site, where Peter Hall oversees the winemaking process from fermentation to bottling. The vineyard participates in Natural England's Higher Level Stewardship Scheme, which aims to conserve wildlife and enhance landscape quality and character, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.

By Car
Access to Breaky Bottom is via a 1.5-mile track off the C7 Lewes to Newhaven road, near Northease Farm. While usually navigable by car, the track can be unmade and challenging in places.

By Public Transport
The nearest train station is Southease, approximately an hour's walk from the vineyard. Alternatively, visitors can take a train to Lewes and then a short connecting train to Southease, followed by the walk. Breaky Bottom is less than half a mile from the South Downs Way, making it accessible for hikers and cyclists.

Book train tickets in advance via Trainline.

Other Vineyards
Court Garden Vineyard & Winery: Located in Ditchling, this award-winning, family-run vineyard offers hand-crafted sparkling wines.

Rathfinny Wine Estate: Situated near Alfriston in the South Downs, Rathfinny is a prominent estate known for its English sparkling wines.

Notable Restaurants
Bill's Lewes Restaurant: The original branch of this popular chain, offering a vibrant atmosphere and seasonal dining in the heart of Lewes.

The Lewes Arms: A quintessential Lewes pub, celebrated for its character, fine food, and drink, located near the town's Norman castle.

Notable Hotels
The White Hart: A characterful 16th-century coaching inn in central Lewes, extensively refurbished in 2024, offering rooms, dining, and a vibrant pub atmosphere.

The Jolly Sportsman: A highly-rated bed & breakfast known for its comfortable accommodation and good food, located in the scenic Sussex countryside near Lewes.

Notable Attractions
Lewes Castle & Museum: Explore this historic Norman castle and museum offering insights into local history and panoramic views of the town and surrounding South Downs.

Charleston Farmhouse: The former home and studio of Bloomsbury Group artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, now a museum celebrating their art and lives.