East Sussex has become one of England’s most exciting wine regions, producing award‑winning sparkling and still wines that rival some of Europe’s best.
With its warm, dry climate, chalky soils, and gently rolling countryside, the region is perfectly suited to grape growing.
For guests staying at Rocklands Self‑Catering Apartments in Hastings, several exceptional vineyards are within easy reach, offering tours, tastings and beautiful rural settings ideal for a relaxed day out.
Here then are our highlights of the best vineyards in East Sussex, complete with their locations and what makes each one worth visiting.
Chapel Down, Tenterden
Location: Small Hythe Road, Tenterden, Kent TN30 7NG
Although technically just across the border in Kent, Chapel Down is one of the most celebrated vineyards accessible from East Sussex and a must‑visit for wine lovers. The estate is known for its world‑class sparkling wines, produced using the traditional method, and its elegant still wines made from Bacchus, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The vineyard offers guided tours, tastings, a well‑stocked shop and beautifully maintained grounds with walking paths. Chapel Down has supplied wines for prestigious events, including the Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race and the Royal Opera House, cementing its reputation as a leader in English winemaking.
Visit Website: https://chapeldown.com/
Oxney Organic Estate, Beckley
Location: Hobbs Lane, Beckley, Rye TN31 6TU
Oxney Organic Estate is the largest single‑estate organic vineyard in the UK, producing exceptional still and sparkling wines from organically grown Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Seyval Blanc. The estate spans more than 35 acres and is committed to sustainable, low‑intervention winemaking.
Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours, tastings and walks through the peaceful countryside. The tasting barn, set within a converted farm building, offers a relaxed and rustic atmosphere. Oxney’s sparkling wines regularly win national awards and are praised for their finesse and purity.
Visit Website: https://oxneyestate.com/
Tillingham Wines, Peasmarsh
Location: Dew Farm, Dew Lane, Peasmarsh, Rye TN31 6XD
Tillingham has quickly become one of the most talked‑about vineyards in the UK, known for its natural, low‑intervention wines and innovative approach to winemaking. The estate sits on a 70‑acre farm with vineyards, orchards and meadows, and its wines are produced using a mix of traditional and experimental techniques, including amphora fermentation.
The estate offers guided tours, tastings, a wine bar and a restaurant with views across the rolling countryside. Tillingham’s wines are popular among enthusiasts who enjoy distinctive, characterful bottles that reflect the landscape and the winemaker’s creative approach.
Visit Website: https://tillingham.com/
Rathfinny Wine Estate, Alfriston
Location: Alfriston, Polegate BN26 5TU
Rathfinny is one of England’s most impressive wine estates, set within the South Downs near the picturesque village of Alfriston. Established in 2010, the estate has quickly gained international recognition for its premium sparkling wines made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.
The vineyard offers guided tours, tastings, a restaurant, a tasting room and walking trails with panoramic views across the Downs. Rathfinny’s sparkling wines are known for their elegance, fine bubbles and long finish, making the estate a standout destination for a refined day out.
Visit Website: https://rathfinnyestate.com/
Bluebell Vineyard Estates, Furner’s Green
Location: Glenmore Farm, Furner’s Green, Uckfield TN22 3RW
Bluebell Vineyard Estates is home to the award‑winning Hindleap range of sparkling wines, produced using the traditional method. The vineyard spans more than 100 acres and grows classic Champagne varieties alongside Seyval Blanc.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings and self‑guided walks through the vines and surrounding woodland. Bluebell’s sparkling wines have won numerous national and international awards, and the estate’s peaceful rural setting makes it a relaxing place to spend an afternoon.
Visit Website: https://bluebellwines.com/
Charles Palmer Vineyards, Winchelsea
Location: Wickham Manor, Winchelsea TN36 4AG
Located just outside the historic town of Winchelsea, Charles Palmer Vineyards is a family‑run estate producing premium still and sparkling wines. The vineyard benefits from a warm microclimate and chalky soils similar to those found in Champagne.
The estate offers tastings, vineyard walks and a shop selling its full range of wines. Charles Palmer’s sparkling wines are particularly well regarded, known for their depth, structure and refined character.
Visit Website: https://www.charlespalmer-vineyards.co.uk/
Why East Sussex Is Perfect for Wine Lovers
East Sussex’s combination of chalk, clay and sandstone soils, along with its mild climate and long growing season, makes it one of the most promising wine regions in the UK.
Many vineyards here use the same grape varieties and production methods as Champagne, resulting in sparkling wines that consistently win international awards.
For guests staying at Rocklands, these vineyards offer the perfect grown‑up escape: peaceful countryside, exceptional wines and relaxed tasting rooms—all within easy driving distance.
