Yorkshire: Loversall Vineyard Wine Tasting and Tour
Quick Overview
This 3-hour experience puts you right in the heart of South Yorkshire at Loversall Vineyard, a family-run farm just outside Doncaster. Led by passionate guides like John and Sue Lee, you’ll explore the vineyards, learn about the local area’s history, and enjoy tastings of local wines and cheeses. The tour includes a tractor ride, a short film about cheese and wine, and a chance to relax with a picnic if you opt for the full experience.
What we love: First, the personalized touch — small groups mean you’re not just another face in the crowd. Second, the tractor tour offers a charming way to see the farmland and vineyards up close.
Possible consideration: The vineyard’s first harvest isn’t until Autumn 2025, so wine production is still in its early stages, meaning you won’t taste the vineyard’s own wine until summer 2026.
Best suited for: Curious travelers who appreciate authentic rural experiences and enjoy tasting local products in a relaxed, intimate setting. This tour is ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of wine and cheese making without the fuss of large commercial tours.
Keen to taste more of Doncaster? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences
Key Points
- Small group size enhances the personal experience and interaction.
- Guided tractor ride offers a scenic, authentic view of the farm.
- Wine and cheese tasting provides a taste of local Yorkshire produce.
- Informative film deepens understanding of cheese and wine production.
- Flexible options include a picnic for full tour participants.
- Family-run farm ensures a genuine, passionate approach to their craft.
An In-Depth Look at the Loversall Vineyard Tour
A Warm Welcome to South Yorkshire’s Hidden Gem
From the moment we arrived at Loversall Farm, it was clear this was more than just a commercial vineyard — it’s a family affair. The farm’s rustic charm instantly invites you to relax, and the knowledgeable guides, John and Sue Lee, create a welcoming atmosphere that makes learning about wine and cheese feel like visiting friends. The tour runs from May to September, with a duration of around three hours, making it a manageable yet memorable experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Tractor Ride: A Scenic Journey
The highlight for many is the bespoke tractor/trailer ride around the farm. This isn’t just transportation but a chance to see the rolling fields, the budding vineyards, and the farm buildings in action. The views are surprisingly picturesque for a small family farm, giving you a real sense of rural Yorkshire life. As you bounce along, guides share stories about the land’s history, local traditions, and the farm’s ambitious plans to produce their own wine starting in Summer 2026.
Learning About the Local Area and Agriculture
What sets this tour apart is the storytelling about the local area’s history and agricultural practices. You’ll get a sense of how the region’s landscape influences the grape-growing process and the farm’s cheese production. The guides are eager to share their passion, explaining that their first harvest will be handpicked in Autumn 2025, with a 12-month fermentation and maturation process. This means their wines are still in the early stages but promise exciting developments ahead.
Cheese and Wine: Tasting and Education
The tasting session is a real highlight. You’ll sample local cheeses paired with wines, with the guides explaining the unique qualities of each. While the vineyard’s own wine isn’t available until 2026, you can enjoy a selection of wines from the vineyard’s collection, along with the cheeses. The informative film further enhances this experience, giving insights into the delicate art of cheese and wine production.
One reviewer noted: “The cheese tasting was a real eye-opener — I appreciated learning how each cheese complements different wines.” This pairing not only delights the palate but also deepens your understanding of the complex relationship between wine and cheese.
The Option of a Picnic
If you opt for the full tour, you’ll finish with a picnic on the farm, offering a relaxed way to soak in the countryside views. Bring your own picnic or enjoy one provided (if available), and take your time to unwind before heading back. Many find this the perfect ending to a delightful afternoon.
Practical Details and Tips
The tour is designed for adults only — no children under 10 or those with mobility issues, as it involves walking and a tractor ride. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and enough water. The meeting point is at Loversall Farm in Doncaster, just a short drive from the city center, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to check in smoothly.
Note: Since the vineyard is new and still establishing its wine production, you won’t taste their own wine until summer 2026. However, the current selection and the educational aspect make it worthwhile.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, cheese lovers, or anyone curious about how a small farm can produce quality local products. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic rural visits and want a more personalized, behind-the-scenes look at farming in Yorkshire. If you enjoy scenic tractor rides, informative storytelling, and tasting local specialties in a relaxed setting, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.
Final Thoughts: The Value and Authenticity
For a modest price, you’re getting a three-hour, hands-on experience that combines education, tasting, and scenic views. The guides’ passion shines through, making the tour feel intimate and genuine. While the vineyard’s own wines aren’t available yet, the current tastings of local wines paired with Yorkshire cheese create a memorable experience that celebrates regional craftsmanship.
The small group size enhances this personal touch, allowing for questions and relaxed conversation. The tractor ride, in particular, offers a charming, authentic glimpse into rural Yorkshire life, which is often difficult to access in larger, more commercial tours. Plus, the inclusion of an educational film adds a layer of depth that makes this experience suitable for those who love learning about food and drink traditions.
Overall, if you’re seeking a unique, authentic taste of Yorkshire’s countryside, paired with the chance to learn about wine and cheese production, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a perfect choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to explore beyond typical tourist spots.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is for adults only, and children under 10 are not permitted.
How long does the wine production take?
The vineyard’s first harvest is expected in Autumn 2025, with a 12-month fermentation process leading to wine availability from Summer 2026.
Can I visit without a reservation?
No, booking in advance is necessary. You can reserve and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a hat are recommended for comfort during the farm walk and tractor ride.
Is there transportation from nearby cities?
The tour starts at the farm in Loversall, near Doncaster, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport.
Are the tours available any time of year?
Tours run from 1st May to 30th September, aligning with the growing season and weather.
What’s included in the tour?
Guided farm tour, informative film, wine and cheese tasting, and a tractor ride. The full tour includes a picnic.
If you’re after an authentic, relaxed way to taste Yorkshire’s local produce while gaining insight into farming and viticulture, the Loversall Vineyard Wine Tasting and Tour offers a memorable, warm experience worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here: