Need inspiration for a summer afternoon? How about relaxing in a Yorkshire vineyard with a sip of something local and lovely?
Yorkshire Heart
This award-winning vineyard and brewery based near Nun Monkton village sits perfectly between York and Harrogate. Family-run, the wine specialists nurture over 25,000 vines to produce fine English red, white, rose, varietal, and sparkling wines. Sample their goods with a vineyard tour and tasting which takes place between May to September or take a seat at the Winehouse Café and terrace for a spot of Yorkshire tapas or afternoon tea. Keep a look out for a fantastic programme of events taking place throughout the year such as the Great Yorkshire Wine & Fizz Festival in August, acoustic music night on the last Friday of every month, and evenings at the vineyard.
yorkshireheart.com
Dunesford
Nestled in the Vale of York this four-acre boutique vineyard is one of the most northernly vineyards in the UK, but produces characterful, distinctive wines. Inspired by the vineyards of Tuscany and the local Roman heritage, the Townsend family began planting near their family home in Upper Dunsforth in 2016 and now grow four grape varieties that thrive in this northern location. Their now award-winning wines are produced from Bacchus, Solaris, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir Précoce grapes which can be enjoyed during one of their tours or tastings with a variety of indulgent experiences to choose from. Be sure to stop by their fabulous wine bar and terrace where a range of sparkling and still wines are served.
dunesforde.com
Holmfirth Vineyard
Aptly located overlooking the setting of ‘Last of the Summer Wine’, this difficult terrain produces hand planted vines specially produced to thrive in cooler climes. A stunning setting in the Holme Valley, savour sublime views while tasting wines grown from hybrid grapes across the seven-acre vineyard. Twice daily tours will inform novices and experts alike on the history of the vineyard, what’s grown, and how it’s managed. Take a stroll through the vines, visit the winery to get a behind the scenes peek at production, before taking in the fruits of their labour as you taste a selection of wines. Book a table in the restaurant for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dinner for a setting with a difference.
holmfirthvineyard.com
Carlton Towers Walled Garden
The magnificent home to Lord and Lady Gerald Fitzalan Howard near Sleby harbours a hidden gem. Reminiscent of the classic English novel ‘The Secret Garden’ step through the powder-blue gate into a beautiful enclosure teeming with vines. Born from Lord and Lady Gerald’s passion for wine and dedicated to Lord Gerald’s father Miles, 17th Duke of Norfolk, the vines which were tenderly planted by the couple, grow two grape varities: Auxerrois Colmar and Pinot Noir which produce a deliciously light sparkling wine. Indulge in a feasting event set amongst the vines, take afternoon tea or embark on a guided tour.
carltontowers.co.uk
Laurel Vines
Based in the small hamlet of Aike in West Yorkshire, Laurel Vines is a low carbon, low environmental impact vineyard with a winery onsite. This family owned and run vineyard was born out of a passion to develop the vines and grapes in order to produce the best quality wine with everyone playing a part in the vine growing, picking and wine production. The result is high quality wines with a down to earth feel – clean and simple, with no fuss – just how we like things in Yorkshire. Pop by for a picnic which includes a vineyard and winery tour or stop by on a Saturday to have a tipple in the Wine Bar.
laurel-vines.co.uk
Little Wold Vineyard
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Wolds, this picturesque vineyard was established in 2012 and now has over 30,000 vines growing Pheonix, Solaris, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir grape varieties. Take on a tour to learn more about the history of the farm, why the family decided to plant a vineyard, walk around the vines, and most importantly, four of the wines they produce. The Tasting Room hosts a variety of events throughout the year, while the Cellar Door is open every Friday and Saturday offering up some tasty treats.
littlewoldvineyard.co.uk
Ryedale Vineyards
Nestled at the foot of the Yorkshire Wolds, close to York and Castle Howard, this family-owned, award-winning vineyard boasts 15,000 vines growing 18 different varieties of grapes including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Bacchus. The vineyard offers informal, humorous, and informative guided tours and tastings which start with a look around the vines, followed by a stop at their winery, before ending in a sampling of their wines and ciders accompanied by local cheeses. These run from Easter to late October and can include a pre-tour cream tea. Events are held regularly at the vineyard which include open days, live theatre, and Yorkshire Day celebrations with a brass brand and dancing.
ryedalevineyards.co.uk
