English Wine Tourism Is Booming – And These Are the Vineyard Experiences Everyone's Booking
Discover why English wine tourism is booming and the best vineyard experiences within 90 minutes of London.
English wine is enjoying a remarkable rise in popularity, with more people than ever swapping overseas vineyard holidays for tasting experiences much closer to home.
New data from leading travel experiences marketplace GetYourGuide reveals bookings for wine tasting and winery experiences in the UK have increased by 25% this summer, as more Brits look to discover award winning English wines, meet local producers and enjoy memorable food and drink experiences without leaving the country.
The figures reflect a wider shift in the UK's flourishing wine industry, where quality, sustainability and locally produced food and drink continue to attract growing interest.
English wine is enjoying a golden moment
England's wine industry has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with the number of vineyards increasing by 4.3% compared to 2024.
At the same time, English sparkling wines continue to earn international awards, helping cement the UK's reputation as an exciting wine-producing destination.
GetYourGuide's latest figures also reveal that UK travellers are leading the global surge in wine tourism. Bookings for wine tours increased by 44% between summer 2024 and summer 2025—more than three times the growth seen among French travellers (13%) and comfortably ahead of Germany (18%) and the United States (18%).
It's a clear sign that more people are embracing vineyard experiences as a chance to enjoy exceptional wines while supporting local producers.
Why more people are choosing English vineyards
Dan Evans, GetYourGuide's European travel expert, believes recent warm weather has encouraged more people to experience the UK's vineyards for themselves.
"The recent summer heatwave proved you don't need to jump on a plane to enjoy a vineyard escape. With English wine now earning international acclaim, more travellers are discovering that some of the UK's best food and drink experiences are right on their doorstep. From vineyard tours in the Kent countryside to guided tastings showcasing award-winning sparkling wines, it's a brilliant way to experience local culture without leaving the country."
Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable day out, vineyard tours offer the chance to sample award-winning wines, learn about the winemaking process and enjoy some of Britain's most beautiful countryside.
Three vineyard experiences within 90 minutes of London
If you're inspired to discover English wine for yourself, Dan Evans recommends these three experiences.
London: Full-Day English Wine Tour with Lunch – From £150 per person
Depart from central London for a full-day tour of three award-winning Kent vineyards, with guided tastings of acclaimed English still and sparkling wines, estate visits, and a seasonal lunch paired with local wine. Discover the history and rise of England's thriving wine industry before returning to London in the early evening.
Kent: Balfour Vineyard Walk and Wine Tasting – From £25 per person
Discover award winning Balfour Winery in the Kent countryside with a guided vineyard tour, hosted tasting of three exceptional English wines, and expert insight into England's internationally acclaimed wine industry. Afterwards, relax in the tasting room or explore the estate's beautiful ancient woodlands.
Bath: British Wine & Cheese Tasting Experience – From £35 per person
Enjoy an intimate tasting beneath a charming Bath wine shop, featuring three award-winning English wines expertly paired with artisan British cheeses and seasonal accompaniments. Set in a cosy cellar, it's a relaxed introduction to Britain's flourishing wine and regional food scene.
Raise a glass to English wine
As English wine continues to earn international recognition, it's no surprise that vineyard visits are becoming one of the UK's must try food and drink experiences. Whether you're planning a summer day out, celebrating a special occasion or simply keen to sample some award winning homegrown wines, there's never been a better time to explore England's thriving wine scene. With vineyards producing world class still and sparkling wines across the country, your next favourite bottle could be waiting just around the corner.
