Elham Valley Vineyard

Elham Valley Vineyard is a social enterprise of The Fifth Trust (a charity/education provider). Homepage states: "Visitors are invited to stroll along our beautiful garden walkway through rows of around 2,000 vines and enjoy a warm welcome at our cafe" - suggesting walk-in access to the vineyard walk and cafe. Note: the "Book a site visit" CTA on this site is for prospective students/parents visiting the Trust's education programmes, not vineyard tourism booking - exact opening hours not published.

Opening hours can change for private events - it's always worth checking the vineyard's website before you visit.

What's the vibe?

Elham Valley Vineyard offers a unique and enriching experience, seamlessly blending the serene beauty of the Kent Downs with a profound social mission. It's a welcoming space where visitors can enjoy the tranquil vineyard setting while supporting a meaningful charitable cause.

The Vineyard Café: The on-site Vineyard Café is open Monday to Saturday 9am–4pm and Sunday 10am–4pm, serving homemade breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas. Produce comes from the estate's own allotments in Barham and local suppliers. The café has a dedicated children's menu and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Booking a table is recommended. The café won Outstanding Service of the Year at the Kent Life Food & Drink Awards 2025.

Tastings: Wine tastings are available and can be paired with Kentish cheeses - check the website for current formats and availability.

Online Shop: Elham Valley Vineyard wines and gift vouchers are available to order online.

Elham Valley Vineyard cultivates grape varieties such as Seyval Blanc, Bacchus, and Pinot Noir. From these, they produce a range of English wines including still white, still rosé, sparkling white, and sparkling rosé (Blanc de Noirs). In 2024, nearly 600 new Solaris vines were planted, with their first harvest anticipated in 2028, aiming to produce a dry white wine.

The vineyard's wines have received recognition, winning awards in 1988 and 1994. While older accolades, they demonstrate a history of quality winemaking.

Elham Valley Vineyard operates with an eco-friendly ethos, employing traditional hand methods for viticulture and vinification. They encourage biological control by allowing grasses to grow among the vines, which helps reduce the need for pesticides. The vineyard is actively hoping to apply for the Sustainable Wines of Great Britain certification, reflecting their commitment to environmental awareness, particularly as they are situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Their wine is crafted by local producer Defined Wine, less than two miles from the vineyard.

By Car
Elham Valley Vineyard is located approximately one mile south of Barham on the B2065 Canterbury Hythe Road. If travelling from the A2, take the bridge exit between Barham and Elham.

By Public Transport
The nearest bus stop is "Vineyard, Breach," which is just a 1-minute walk from the vineyard. This stop is served by bus routes 15, 16, and 17. The number 17 bus route connects Folkestone and Canterbury. The nearest train station is Canterbury, located about 5 miles away, from which a bus or taxi would be required to reach the vineyard.

Book train tickets in advance via Trainline.

Discover more of what the beautiful Kent countryside has to offer during your visit to Elham Valley Vineyard:

• Other Vineyards:
• Simpsons Wine Estate, Barham, Kent
• Terlingham Vineyard, Folkestone, Kent
• Notable Restaurants:
• The King's Arms: Located in Elham village, this gastropub was crowned "Best Pub in Kent" at the National Pub & Bar Awards 2024.
• The Rose And Crown: A historic 16th-century coaching inn in Elham, offering traditional British cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. (Note: Temporarily closed at time of writing).
• Notable Hotels:
• The Rose And Crown: This historic inn in Elham also offers cozy en-suite rooms in a converted stable block.
• The Abbots Fireside: A guesthouse in Elham village, set in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms within walking distance of the village centre.
• Notable Attractions:
• Howletts Wild Animal Park: Home to over 390 animals, including endangered species, this animal park offers a unique wildlife experience and supports vital conservation efforts.
• Elham Valley Railway Museum: A family attraction where visitors can explore railway memorabilia, see steam engines, and experience a replica 1930s railway station.