If you’re searching for a vineyard tour near Brighton, Rathfinny Wine Estate is worth the trip. As England’s most coastal vineyard, sitting within the South Downs National Park and just seven miles from the Seven Sisters, it offers something not many wine estates can: chalk soil, sea air, and a working vineyard with a restaurant, shop and accommodation.

Rathfinny Estate with View of Cuckmere River and Sea

A Proper Escape

Rathfinny sits just outside Alfriston in East Sussex, roughly two hours from London Victoria, with Berwick and Polegate stations just a short taxi ride away. It’s also in easy reach of Brighton and Eastbourne. It’s an easy half-day trip for anyone based near Brighton, but feels like a true escape when you’re enjoying lunch looking over the vineyard or staying the night at the Flint Barns.

Tours that go Beyond Tasting

Our guided tours take in the vines and the winery before finishing with a tutored tasting. All tours walk you through the winemaking process from grape to glass but there are different routes and itineraries throughout the year so you always experience something new. From summer walks through the vineyard to winter visits behind the scenes, every season brings something fresh and exciting. There is also a self-guided walking tour for anyone who’d rather explore the land at their own pace.

English Wine Tour
Picnic

World-Class Produce

Rathfinny is the place where you can try exceptional wine made just a short trip from home. Our family-run, B Corp-certified Estate produces its own Sussex Sparkling wines on a single south-facing site in the South Downs, where the climate, chalk soil, and aspect create the ideal conditions for English sparkling wines that now carry Protected Designation of Origin status – the same quality guarantee given to Champagne.

Make a Day of It

When you’ve finished your Rathfinny vineyard tour, end your visit with lunch at the Flint Barns Dining Room. Our expert chefs produce a seasonal menu that leans into the same local, produce-led ethos as the wine. Alternatively, you can keep things relaxed with a glass of Sussex Sparkling and a light bite at The Hut: our al fresco, walk-in wine bar just outside the Cellar Door. See opening hours when planning your visit.

Stay Over

For those who would rather not rush back to Brighton, the Flint Barns offers boutique bed and breakfast rooms, and the self-catering Rathfinny Cottage or Lodge is available for a longer stay. Whether you’re passing through or looking for a short break, our accommodation puts you in the heart of the vineyard.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Backed by many excellent reviews, we’re praised as one of the best English vineyard tours. Our friendly, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable tour guides are regularly mentioned, along with our beautiful setting and fabulous wines. Our tours are known for being a well-run experience, with engaging guides delivering accessible and detailed information.

Best Time to Visit

Our vineyard tours offer something different in every season. Summer tours bring a proper walk through the vines and experience the views across the South Downs, whilst winter visits move indoors with exclusive access to the bottling building. Our autumn Harvest Tour, adds a dosage trial where guests can conduct their own wine tasting experiment.

Book your Visit Today

For a coastal escape with excellent wine at the end of it, Rathfinny earns the trip from Brighton. Whether you’re looking for a day trip that offers something different, an escape from the hustle and bustle of Brighton life, or want to celebrate a special occasion at our restaurant, Rathfinny is the number one choice. Contact us today to book or find out more information.

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