From Brighton: Sussex Wine Tour on a Vintage Bus With Lunch

Discover the essence of Sussex’s burgeoning wine region on this captivating 6.5-hour guided tour from Brighton. Aboard a vintage 1960s London Routemaster bus, you’ll explore award-winning vineyards, uncover their terroir and winemaking techniques, and savor the complex flavors of their sparkling and still wines through guided tours and tastings. The day culminates with a delectable homemade lunch showcasing local, seasonal ingredients, accompanied by a glass of Sussex’s finest. This immersive experience promises to transport you into the heart of the region’s vibrant viticulture. What secrets will the wineries unveil?

Key Points

• A 6.5-hour guided tour from Brighton to two award-winning wineries in the Sussex wine region aboard a vintage 1960s London Routemaster bus.
• Guided tours of the vineyards and production facilities, followed by tutored tastings of sparkling and still wines.
• Opportunity to learn about the region’s terroir and winemaking techniques from knowledgeable guides.
• Tasting of award-winning wines and cultivation of a deeper understanding of English wine.
• Locally-sourced, homemade vineyard lunch with a glass of Sussex sparkling or still wine.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

The guided tour from Brighton lasts 6.5 hours and visits two award-winning wineries in the Sussex wine region aboard a vintage 1960s London Routemaster bus.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards and wineries, as well as tutored wine tastings at each location.

The tour also includes a homemade, locally-sourced vineyard lunch, with one glass of wine included.

Highlights of the tour include stepping back in time on the iconic London bus, learning about English wine production from vineyard managers, and savoring award-winning sparkling and still wines while taking in the scenic views of the South Downs countryside.

Winery Visits

During the 6.5-hour tour, guests visit two award-winning wineries in the Sussex wine region. At each winery, they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards and production facilities, along with a tutored tasting of the winery’s sparkling and still wines.

This provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s unique terroir and winemaking techniques directly from the vineyard managers.

The winery visits offer several benefits:

• Gain insider knowledge of English wine production
• Savor the distinct flavors and aromas of award-winning wines
• Discover the perfect pairings for the locally-sourced lunch
• Browse the cellar door for exclusive bottles to take home
• Capture the scenic countryside views surrounding the vineyards

Guided Vineyard Tours

Guides lead visitors on immersive tours through the vineyards, offering in-depth insights into the local terroir and winemaking techniques employed at each award-winning estate.

Guests learn about the unique climate and soil composition that contribute to the distinct character of the region’s wines. They’ll witness the meticulous care taken during the grape-growing process, from pruning and canopy management to harvesting.

The tours also showcase the state-of-the-art winery facilities, where participants observe the intricate steps of vinification, from fermentation to maturation and bottling.

Throughout the experience, knowledgeable guides encourage questions, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind Sussex’s acclaimed vintages.

Award-Winning Wine Tastings

Visitors savor expertly curated wine tastings that showcase the award-winning sparkling and still wines produced by the region’s acclaimed vineyards.

The guided tastings at each winery provide a unique opportunity to learn directly from the vineyard managers about the wine-making process and the distinct terroir that gives these wines their exceptional character.

Tasting notes highlight the complex flavors, aromas, and distinct personalities of the varietals, allowing guests to appreciate the nuances that have earned these wines prestigious awards.

The experience cultivates a deeper understanding and appreciation for English wine, leaving participants with a newfound enthusiasm for the region’s exceptional offerings.

• Taste award-winning sparkling and still wines
• Learn directly from vineyard managers about winemaking
• Discover the unique terroir that shapes the wine’s character
• Appreciate the complex flavors and aromas of each varietal
• Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for English wine

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Homemade Vineyard Lunch

A homemade, locally-sourced vineyard lunch awaits guests, providing a delightful opportunity to savor the flavors of the region alongside the award-winning wines. This meal is crafted using the freshest ingredients from nearby farms and producers, ensuring a truly authentic Sussex experience. Guests can look forward to a spread that showcases the best of the local cuisine.

Course	Description	Ingredients
Starter	Seasonal salad	Locally grown greens, vegetables, and herbs
Main	Hearty meat or vegetarian dish	Sussex-raised meats or seasonal produce
Side	Roasted potatoes or seasonal vegetables	Locally sourced potatoes and vegetables
Dessert	Decadent tart or cake	Locally produced fruits and dairy
Beverage	One glass of wine	Award-winning Sussex sparkling or still wine

Iconic London Routemaster Bus

This iconic 1960s London Routemaster bus transports guests back in time, providing a nostalgic and authentic mode of transportation for the Sussex wine tour. With its classic red exterior and open-air design, the Routemaster evokes the charm and elegance of a bygone era, allowing visitors to experience the countryside in style.

The bus’s timeless silhouette and distinctive features, such as the iconic curved roof and fold-out rear platform, create a sense of wonder and excitement for guests.

Stepping aboard the Routemaster is like taking a step back in history, immersing travelers in the sights, sounds, and ambiance of mid-20th century London.

The smooth ride and panoramic views from the upper deck offer a unique perspective of the picturesque Sussex landscape, enhancing the overall wine tour experience.

Riding the Routemaster adds an element of nostalgia and whimsy, making the journey to the wineries a memorable and enjoyable part of the tour.

For many guests, the vintage bus is as much of a highlight as the award-winning wines themselves, capturing the essence of British heritage and tradition.

Scenic South Downs Countryside

As the iconic Routemaster bus winds its way through the picturesque South Downs countryside, guests are treated to sweeping vistas of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming villages that dot the landscape.

The South Downs National Park is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing the region’s natural splendor. Visitors can admire the patchwork of fields, woodlands, and scenic overlooks as the bus climbs gentle slopes and navigates winding country roads.

This idyllic setting provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the award-winning wineries that call the Sussex region home. The tour’s scenic drives allow guests to fully enjoy the area’s rural charms before indulging in tastings of the local vintages.

Booking and Logistics

Although the tour is priced at $159.83 per person, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing guests the flexibility to plan their visit.

Travelers can reserve their spots now and pay later, making it convenient to secure their place on the tour.

The meeting point for the experience is the Leonardo Hotel Brighton, ensuring a centralized departure location for participants.

Flexible cancellation policy for unexpected changes
Convenient booking and payment options
Centralized meeting point for easy access
Competitive pricing for a unique wine tour experience
Seamless logistics for a hassle-free day in the Sussex countryside

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Dietary Requirements?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary requirements. Guests can notify the tour operator about any dietary needs when booking, and the vineyard lunch will be adjusted accordingly.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in their travel plans.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour provider offers discounts for group bookings. Customers can inquire about group rates when making their reservation, which may provide a more affordable option for parties of 4 or more.

Is There a Possibility to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can potentially be extended, though this may incur additional fees. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about the possibility and costs of extending the tour duration to meet their specific needs.

Can We Bring Our Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Bus?

Unfortunately, bringing your own alcoholic beverages on the bus is not permitted. The tour includes guided wine tastings at the wineries and a complimentary glass of wine with lunch, so you can enjoy the featured wines during the tour.

Recap

This guided wine tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the acclaimed vineyards of Sussex.

Aboard a vintage London bus, visitors will enjoy guided tours, wine tastings, and a delectable lunch showcasing local ingredients.

The tour immerses guests in the region’s viticulture, allowing them to savor the complex flavors of award-winning sparkling and still wines amidst the scenic South Downs countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here: