Discover Biddenden Vineyards in Kent

How do you fancy slipping away somewhere quiet and rustic this weekend, to sip a glass of full-bodied red in among the vines?

Before you start getting disheartened at the prospect of airport queues and delayed flights to Bordeaux, we’re talking about somewhere much easier to get to: Kent.Yep, you heard right. Biddenden is Kent’s oldest vineyard, having grown from a single acre in 1969, to an impressive 22 right now – hosting ten varieties of grape that end up in a range of white, red, rosé and sparkling wines.

Why not take a casual stroll round and see for yourself – it’s completely free and there are two routes to follow round the grounds. Then, after checking out the different vines, and popping in to see the pressing and bottling line, you can try some free samples in the shop.

October’s the time for the harvest, but whatever time you go, the friendly staff are always on hand to point out bits and bobs of interest, and share some wine knowledge (lord knows, we could do with a bit of that).If vino doesn’t tickle your taste buds, though, they’ve been producing some pretty sensational cider for the last 20 years, too.We’ll drink to that…