Biddenden Vineyard
Biddenden Vineyard is Kent's oldest commercial vineyard, having been established by the Barnes family in 1969. The vineyards are set in 22 acres on a gentle south facing slope in a shallow sheltered valley, 1.2 miles from the lovely Wealden village of Biddenden. Ten varieties of grapes are grown to produce White, Red, Rosé and Quality Sparkling wines. Traditional Kentish ciders have also been made here for over 20 years together with farm pressed apple juices.
The vineyards are situated 1.2 miles from the lovely Wealden village of Biddenden, with it's High Street flanked by half timbered houses once used for the weaving of cloth, and its 13th century grey stone church. The legend of the 11th century Biddenden Maids - twins Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst, born joined at the hips and shoulders in 1100 - is world famous and the charity in their name still exists today.
The area affords a great variety of attractions to make a great day out or a weekend away, these include Castles, Historic Gardens and a Steam Railway. The Vineyards. The vineyards were established by the Barnes family in 1969. Starting with one acre the vineyards has grown to 22 acres with nine varieties of grapes grown. Set on a gentle south facing slope in a shallow sheltered valley, ideal conditions for vines. Predominantly German varieties are grown including Ortega, Huxelrebe, Bacchus, Schonburger and Reichensteiner.
Together with Pinot Noir, Gamay and Dornfelder the vineyards are able to produce White, Red, Rosé and Sparkling Wines. Harvest of the grapes takes place late September, visitors can see the presses in operation in the wineries. Bottling of the wines commences early in the following year.
Great effort is made to ensure that the Estate wines produced are of the highest quality, which is reflected by the number of awards we receive.
Alongside our wine making we also produce Strong Kentish Ciders and Farm Pressed Apple Juice, made from the juice of locally grown culinary and dessert apples.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Admissions and tastings are FREE for private individuals.
Opening Times
Mon - Sat 10.00 - 17.00
Sunday & Bank Holidays 11.00 - 17.00
We are closed on Sundays throughout January and February and from noon 24th December to 1st January inclusive.
Groups of 15+
Prices - Day Tours
Adults - £5.10
Children - £2.50 (10-17 years)
Under 10's - £1
Catering for Groups
These menus are available by prior booking for groups of 15 or more, irrespective of whether or not you are having a Tour
Morning Coffee with Danish Pastry - £3.60
Vineyard Ploughman's Platter - £8.25. **Reduced to £6.30, when included in a tour.
A wedge of freshly baked local bread, Cheddar cheese and home baked ham served with salad and a selection of pickles. A glass of wine, cider or apple juice is served with the meal.
Cream Tea - £4.50
Two freshly baked scones, cream, strawberry jam and butter. Pot of tea or coffee.
Evening Meals
Evening Tours are available Monday to Thursday when booked with a meal. Minimum number 20.
For your own comfort hot meals are limited to a maximum of 35 people.
Biddenden Sausage Casserole - £13.70
Cooked in our own Red Wine, served with potatoes and a selection of vegetables. Apple pie and cream raspberry cheesecake or strawberries/raspberries (in season) and coffee
Chicken Fillet - £14.50
Cooked in a cream and broccoli sauce, served with new potatoes and a selection of vegetables. Apple pie and cream raspberry cheesecake or strawberries/raspberries (in season) and coffee
Ham Salad - £13.00
Home Baked Ham served with a selection of salads, new potatoes and fresh bread. Apple pie and cream raspberry cheesecake or strawberries/raspberries (in season) and coffee.
Other Information:
Dogs are welcome on leads.
Picnic area.
See the presses and bottling line in the winery and visit our shop to enjoy free samples of our wines, ciders and apple juices.
Arrive at the vineyard for your tour to begin at 10am and learn the history behind us. A chance to taste our wines, ciders and apple juice all free of charge in our vineyard shop will follow the tour.
Arrive before 9.45am for a FREE CUP OF COFFEE.
ADDRESS:
Biddenden Vineyards
Gribble Bridge Lane
Biddenden
Kent TN27 8DF