A few hours can transport you into the heart of Sussex’s wine and cheese scene without the hassle of driving or parking. Starting at Brighton’s lively railway station, this Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour whisks you around the scenic Sussex countryside in a charming vintage bus from 1953. For $199, you get a day packed with tastings, stories, and stunning views, all in a cozy small-group setting limited to just 10 travelers. We love the authentic atmosphere at each stop and the relaxed pace that allows you to savor each experience. A highlight is the chance to sample award-winning sparkling wines at Court Gardens and Bluebell Vineyard, with knowledgeable guides who share genuine insights.
Two things stand out: first, the tour’s focus on local, quality products — from cheese to wines — ensures you taste the best Sussex has to offer. Second, the small group size makes for a friendly, engaging day where your questions and curiosity are welcomed. A potential consideration is that the tour involves some walking at the vineyards and cheese farm, so travelers with mobility issues might want to plan accordingly. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy authentic tasting experiences, scenic drives, and learning about local food and drink traditions, especially if you’re visiting Brighton and want a day trip that feels both special and manageable.
Key Points
- Authentic Sussex Experience: Visit two distinguished vineyards and a cheese farm, tasting local wines and cheeses.
- Relaxed Pace: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a vintage coach journey through picturesque Sussex countryside.
- Expert Guides: Learn about wine and cheese production from passionate, knowledgeable guides.
- Taste & Learn: From tutored tastings to cheese tours, gain insight into local food craftsmanship.
- Value for Money: All tastings, lunch, and vineyard tours are included, making for a comprehensive experience.
A Complete Look at the Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
This tour offers a charming and insightful way to explore Sussex’s vinicultural and cheesemaking treasures without the stress of self-driving. Starting at Brighton’s bustling railway station, you’ll hop onto a vintage 1953 green coach — a vehicle that adds a nostalgic touch to the day. The tour lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery, sample some of the best local wines and cheeses, and hear stories from passionate guides. At $199, this experience is a well-priced way to taste Sussex’s culinary excellence, especially considering the inclusion of all tastings, lunch, and transport.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the focus on small-group intimacy — with a maximum of 10 travelers, you get more attention from your guide and the chance to ask questions or linger at each stop. Second, the combination of wine and cheese, two quintessentially British delights, makes for a rich, satisfying day. Plus, the scenic drive in a vintage bus adds an element of charm and nostalgia, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.
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The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Court Gardens Farm
Our first stop is Court Gardens Farm, a well-regarded Sussex vineyard that produces award-winning sparkling wines. Here, we’re greeted by a friendly guide who shares stories of the vineyard’s history and its rise in the local wine scene. The visit includes a tour of the vineyard and winery, where we observe the winemaking process from grape to glass. This behind-the-scenes peek is especially engaging because it demystifies what goes into making English sparkling wine — a product that’s gaining national and international recognition.
The highlight here is a tutored tasting of four sparkling wines, which are all award winners. We loved the way the guide explained the different styles and nuances of each, helping us develop a new appreciation for English sparkling wine. It’s a relaxed, informative start that sets the tone for the day. Reviewers like Phil appreciated the family atmosphere and excellent wines, noting that “the wines were excellent” and the experience was “well organised.”
Stop 2: Sussex High Weald Dairy
After a morning of vineyards, the tour takes us to High Weald Dairy for a delicious and informative lunch. This stop is more than just a meal — it’s an immersion into Sussex’s cheese traditions. The tasting menu features a selection of cheeses paired with local charcuterie, breads, chutneys, and salads. During the meal, your guide talks about the history and craft of cheesemaking in Sussex, which adds depth to the tasting.
Following lunch, we’re taken on a tour of the cheese store and dairy, witnessing the cheesemaking process firsthand. It’s a gentle, slow-paced experience that emphasizes local flavors and artisanal skills. The reviews praise the guide’s storytelling — “telling stories of the dairy and the history of cheesemaking” — and the quality of the cheeses. For cheese lovers and foodies alike, this part of the tour provides a satisfying blend of taste and education.
Stop 3: Bluebell Vineyard Estates
The last vineyard, Bluebell Vineyard Estates, offers a fitting finale. Upon arrival, we’re greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, setting a celebratory mood. The tasting here is guided and focuses on both still and sparkling wines, which are all award winners. Sitting on the sun terrace, overlooking the vines, we get a chance to relax and take in the serene landscape.
Bluebell Vineyard’s grounds are beautiful, and the guides make sure to tell you about the wines’ characteristics and how they’re made. After tasting, you can enjoy a glass of your favorite, take a stroll through the vineyard, or simply soak up the views. Reviewers like Phil commented on the “family atmosphere” and the “excellent wines,” making this an enjoyable, memorable conclusion.
Transportation & Group Size
Traveling in a vintage coach is part of the charm. It’s not just transportation — it’s a nod to the past, creating a sense of occasion. The small group size of up to 10 people means the experience feels intimate and relaxed, without the crowds of larger tours. Plus, the bus picks up and drops off at Brighton’s central location, making it convenient for travelers staying in or near the city.
Timing & Pace
Starting at 10:00 am, the tour allows ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The visits involve some walking, especially at the vineyards and cheese farm, so comfortable shoes are advisable. The tour ends back in Brighton, giving you the afternoon free to explore more or relax.
Value for Money
For $199, you get an all-inclusive experience: tastings at three different venues, a delicious lunch, and transportation. This makes it a solid value for those wanting a comprehensive, curated day out. The fact that everything is included — from drinks to cheese and lunch — simplifies planning and ensures no surprises.
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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This tour is ideal for food and drink enthusiasts eager to learn about Sussex’s burgeoning wine scene and artisanal cheeses. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group experiences where they can ask questions and connect with guides. It’s also great for those who enjoy scenic drives, relaxed pacing, and authentic local flavors.
People with an interest in sustainability and local craftsmanship will find this tour enriching, as it highlights small-scale producers making high-quality products. If you’re a visitor to Brighton looking for a manageable, engaging day trip that combines education with fun tastings, this tour checks all the boxes.
Final Thoughts
The Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex offers an authentic taste of the region’s culinary delights in an approachable, friendly format. The combination of scenic drives, expert guides, and quality tastings creates an experience that’s both enjoyable and informative — perfect for curious travelers who love good food and wine.
The small-group setting, coupled with hands-on visits to vineyards and cheesemakers, ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. Instead, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Sussex’s local produce and a few new favorites in your wine and cheese repertoire.
If you’re visiting Brighton and want a relaxed, well-organized day that showcases the best of Sussex’s local food scene, this tour is a smart choice. It balances value with an authentic experience, making it one of the better ways to explore Sussex beyond the usual tourist spots.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving enough time to visit three stops, enjoy tastings, and have a leisurely lunch.
What is included in the price?
All vineyard and cheese tastings, a multi-course lunch with local charcuterie, breads, and salads, plus transportation in a vintage coach are included in the $199 price.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because some walking is involved at the vineyards and cheese farm. Dress according to the weather — layers are always a good idea.
Can I bring alcohol home?
While the tour includes tastings, bringing bottles home might be possible at the end of the day, but check with the guide or the venues for purchase policies.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age for drinking is 18 years, so children cannot participate in tastings. However, families with older kids interested in the scenery and food might enjoy simply observing.
How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Leonardo Hotel Brighton, which is near public transportation. It’s easy to reach from most parts of Brighton.
Embark on this Sussex wine and cheese adventure, and you’ll come away with not just a full belly, but stories and knowledge to savor long after the last glass is poured.