Shawsgate Vineyard

Uncork history at East Anglia's oldest commercial vineyard, where every glass pours with decades of winemaking tradition.

https://www.shawsgatevineyard.co.uk/

Shawsgate Vineyard, Badingham Road, Framlingham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 9HZ, England. Get directions

Nearest station: Saxmundham (6.8 miles).

Public tours

Private tours

Self-guided tours

Tasting room

Dog friendly

Child friendly

Online shop

Winery on site

Walking trail

Award-winning

Open year-round

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

What's the vibe

Shawsgate Vineyard offers a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere amidst the Suffolk countryside, providing an informative and engaging experience for those exploring English wines. This family-owned estate, one of East Anglia's oldest commercial vineyards, is known for its tranquil setting and knowledgeable staff.

Visiting information

Shop Opening Hours:

Winter (October - April): Friday and Saturday, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Summer (May - September): Monday - Saturday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Please note the shop is always closed on Sundays.

Self-Guided Vineyard Trail: Visitors are welcome to enjoy a free, self-guided "DIY" tour of the vineyard at their leisure during shop opening hours. Staff will provide an information sheet and map.

Guided Tours & Experiences: Guided vineyard and winery tours, which include wine tastings, are available from May to August. Experience Days offer a more comprehensive visit, including a locally sourced lunch. Pre-booking is required for these guided experiences.

Children: A children's play area is located next to the shop and tasting room.

Dogs: Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leads when accompanied by responsible owners on the estate grounds, though typically not inside tasting rooms or the winery.

The Wine

Shawsgate Vineyard, established in 1973, is one of East Anglia's most historic commercial vineyards, producing a diverse range of wines. They offer White, Red, Rosé, and Quality English Sparkling wines. The vineyard cultivates grape varieties such as Muller Thurgau, Seyval Blanc, Bacchus, Reichensteiner, Acolon, and Rondo. The wines have received recognition, with their Sparkling Rosé notably winning 'East Anglian sparkling wine of the year' in 2015.

Shawsgate boasts its own on-site winery, which is significant as it serves as Suffolk's main winery, processing grapes not only from their own estate but also from other local producers. This allows for direct control over the winemaking process, ensuring a consistent and quality product.

Getting here

By Car
Shawsgate Vineyard is located on the Badingham Road (B1120) between Framlingham and Badingham, well-signposted with brown signs. The postcode for SAT NAV is IP13 9HZ.

By Public Transport
Public transport does not directly pass the vineyard. Buses do run to Framlingham, which is approximately a 1.5-mile walk from the vineyard. Taxis are available from Framlingham, though it is advisable to book in advance, especially for events.

What's nearby

Other Vineyards

Valley Farm Vineyards, Wissett
Giffords Hall, Hartest Hill

Notable Restaurants

Two Magpies Bakery, Framlingham – Known for artisan bread, pastries, and coffee.
The Station Hotel, Framlingham – Offers dinner, booking recommended.

Notable Hotels

The Crown Hotel, Framlingham – A characterful and historic hotel.
Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa, Woodbridge – Features golf facilities and is eco-friendly.

Notable Attractions

Framlingham Castle, Framlingham – A remarkable 12th-century fortress, inspiration for Ed Sheeran's "Castle on the Hill".
Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge – A significant Anglo-Saxon burial site managed by the National Trust.