Itineraries
Trails &
The Weekend
Escape
Spend the weekend based in the charming and historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, perfectly located to visit some of Kent’s most beautiful vineyards. While away the weekend exploring three of Kent’s finest wine producers, tasting some delightful English wines and sampling some of the region’s premium local produce along the way. This is just an idea to get you started. Use our online booking system to build your perfect break.
2 DAYS & 1 NIGHT
SELF DRIVE
GREAT FOR COUPLES
Day 1
Afternoon – Squerryes
For your first afternoon, Squerryes Winery would be delighted to host you at their beautiful and historic vineyard set within a 2,500 acre estate on the North Downs. Guided tours run year-round and include a 'Spirit of the Terroir' tour of the stunning vineyard by Land Rover, including a tutored wine tasting, with Kentish cheeses and charcuterie. A 'Spirit of the House' tour also includes a visit to Squerryes Court to meet 8th generation owners, Henry and Clare Warde. Share in their fascinating history and stories of the entrepreneurs and game-changers that have shaped the estate over the last 300 years.
Evening – Hotel Du Vin & Bistro
In the heart of Tunbridge Wells, you’ll find the stunning Hotel du Vin, a lovingly converted Grade II-listed mansion, and one of this beautiful spa town's architectural landmarks. Offering a range of unique rooms and suites, complete with fluffy robes and roll-top baths, you can stay and enjoy a relaxing weekend in these luxurious surroundings. The Hotel du Vin also has an on-site bistro serving classic French dishes that rely heavily on fresh and seasonal produce.
Day 2
Morning - The Hush Heath Estate
The next day, a 30 minute drive will take you to Hush Heath Winery. The home of award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé is open to visitors and wine lovers to experience tours and tastings. Hidden away in beautiful Kent countryside near Staplehurst, the estate produces one of England's most iconic and exclusive sparkling wines using the 'méthode traditionelle'. Visitors will be able to stroll through the estate’s beautiful vineyards, apple orchards and ancient oak woodlands and enjoy a range of wine tasting and tour experiences from a self-guided stroll to a full estate tour.
Lunch - The Goudhurst Inn
After your morning exploring Hush Heath’s fantastic wines, book your lunch dining experience at the unmissable Goudhurst Inn. Part of the Hush Heath estate and located in the gorgeous village of Goudhurst less than 10 minutes from the winery,The Goudhurst Inn has a sun terrace and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Offering locally sourced food and fresh, clay oven fired pizzas, The Times ‘Top 30 Places to Dine & Stay’ recommended this as 'a dining experience not to be missed'.
Afternoon - Biddenden Vineyard
A short drive (20 minutes) will then take you to Biddenden Vineyards, Kent’s original family run vineyard, Biddenden Vineyards is home to some of Kent’s oldest vines – many that have been in the ground for almost fifty years. Ripe with history and bursting with stories to share, these vines are the heart and soul of the business. Guests can enjoy a pre-booked private guided tour or simply visit the vineyard shop which offers a wide range of local & artisan food & drink alongside Biddenden’s award-winning sparkling & still wines to take home.
Optional extra
Exploring Canterbury & Beyond
Why not extend your stay and explore more of Kent's fantastic locations...
Discover the beautiful, ancient city of Canterbury, one of the jewels in Kent's crown. The historic city is the perfect spot for anyone in the mood for gorgeous medieval streets, great food and drink, and a cultural getaway. Just ten minutes from Canterbury, find the bohemian seaside town of Whitstable, famous for its oysters and shingle beaches. This charming port has been dubbed the Pearl of Kent, and is brimming with seafood restaurants, picturesque lanes, artisan bakeries, boutique shops and art galleries.
You could also visit Simpsons Wine Estate, just 20 minutes outside of Canterbury. Your experience here will include a walking tour of 'The Roman Road’ vineyard taking in the vines and learning about how they are planted, grown and harvested. Returning to the winery, guests will discovery the secrets of the winemaking process from the comfortable vantage point of our elegant The Glass House Tasting Room. Your experience will culminate in a guided tasting of wines from Simpsons Wine Estate plus a chance to taste a few bottles from our sister property, Domaine de Sainte Rose, in Southern France. If that were not enough you’ll then have the opportunity to take a trip down the ‘Fruite Chute' helter skelter - the only winery slide in the World!
Vineyards can be booked here. Hotels and other attractions must be booked directly.
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