Oatley Vineyard

Step into a living piece of English winemaking history, where the same family's second generation now tends the original vines first planted in 1986.

https://www.oatleyvineyard.co.uk

Oatley Vineyard, Oatley Lane, Cannington, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2NL. Get directions

Nearest station: Bridgwater (5.9 miles).

Public tours

Private tours

Tasting room

Dog friendly

Child friendly

Online shop

Walking trail

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

Oatley Vineyard offers a tranquil and uncommercial escape into the picturesque Somerset countryside, where a warm family welcome awaits visitors. Guests consistently praise the beautiful setting and the passionate approach of the owners, creating an oasis of calm.

Visiting information

Oatley Vineyard welcomes visitors seeking a relaxed and informal experience.
When to visit: The vineyard is generally open weekends from 11:00 to 15:00 (ish) during the summer season. They also open on Bank Holiday weekends and throughout English Wine Week. Visits outside these times can often be arranged by appointment.
Experiences:

Private Tasting: A family member will guide you through the vineyard's story, a tutored tasting of five current wines, and a walk through the vines. This experience takes approximately two hours and is hosted in their new 'wine barn' with stunning views. You are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy afterwards.
DIY Tasting: Relax in an idyllic picnic spot among the vines with a cold box of wines, tasting glasses, and vineyard notes. Guests should bring their own picnic.

Booking: Experiences must be pre-booked. Gift vouchers are also available.
Food & Drink: While there is no restaurant, visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnics to enjoy with the wine. Wines are available for try-before-you-buy sales or by the glass/bottle.
Children & Dogs: Both children and dogs are warmly welcomed at the vineyard.

The Wine

Oatley Vineyard specialises in crisp, still white wines, primarily from Kernling and Madeleine Angevine grapes. Their house style is described as dry, fruity, and made with minimal sulphites, with all wines being vegan-friendly. They also produce sparkling wines, such as the Brut Nature Fizz. The vineyard has a long-standing tradition of excellence, with its wines earning international awards since 1990. For example, their "Jane's 2022" received a Silver Medal at the WineGB Awards in June 2022.

While not certified organic, Oatley Vineyard is deeply committed to sustainable and eco-friendly viticulture. For over 30 years, they have embraced low-intervention practices, fostering a thriving wildlife habitat. This includes avoiding herbicides and minimising soil disruption, using cover crops, and implementing electric tools charged by solar panels. This thoughtful approach aligns with modern 'regenerative' farming principles.

The grapes are hand-harvested and then taken to a local winemaker for production. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, and some wines are matured briefly in French oak. Wines are bottled and labelled by hand.

Getting here

By Car
The vineyard's postcode is TA5 2NL. It is located about a mile west of Cannington. Turn north onto Oatley Lane and continue to the very end of the small, winding road. Plenty of free parking is available.

By Public Transport
The nearest train station is Bridgwater, which is a 20-minute taxi ride away. Taxis should be booked in advance. For those who enjoy walking, there's a scenic 1.6-mile cross-country path from Cannington village, starting near The Rose and Crown pub. Sensible shoes are recommended as the path can be muddy.

What's nearby

Discover more of the local area during your visit to Oatley Vineyard:
Restaurants:

The Friendly Spirit Inn (Cannington): A traditional pub located in Cannington village, known for its community feel and history.
Greenway Farm (Bridgwater): A family-run restaurant focused on local and home-reared produce, offering a taste of the Somerset countryside.

Hotels:

Blackmore Farm (Cannington): A historic farm offering accommodation with its own chapel, recommended for its charming setting.
Apple Tree Hotel (Bridgwater): A family-owned country hotel nestled at the foot of the Quantock Hills, offering a warm welcome and local produce.

Attractions:

The Walled Gardens of Cannington (Cannington): Fascinating gardens set against the backdrop of a Grade I listed medieval priory, featuring both classic and modern designs.
Quantock Hills AONB: England's first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering diverse landscapes, ancient trails, and breathtaking views for outdoor enthusiasts.