Last year I had the good fortune to tour England to find the best wineries to visit for Square Meal’s vivacious magazine.

Several hundred miles later, the odd windmill, fishery, plenty of fine views, tasty sips and a multitude of warm welcomes, this was the result.

Sipping_for_England

Extra, extra, read all about it…

aka the bits that couldn’t quite fit in my Square Meal piece. Without doubt, these wineries deserve your attention too…

Spoilt for Choice

For an unparalleled selection of 140 English wines, make a beeline for the English Wine Centre, near the quaint Sussex village of Alfriston. Popular as a wedding venue, friendly knowledgeable staff guide you through, and the recently opened Flint Barn bistro serves a seasonal menu of locally-sourced dishes.

A fishie on a little dishie

There's always time for tea at Halfpenny Green

Fancy fitting in a spot of fishing? Both Buzzards Valley in Tamworth and Halfpenny Green Vineyards in South Staffordshire boast well-stocked lakes and are open to all-comers. Look out for birds of prey circling above the aptly named Buzzards Valley before stopping for tea or light meals in its contemporary, steel-clad café.
Hundreds of craft shops have set up at Halfpenny Green, alongside bright, spacious tea-room and restaurant.

Making an entrance

Arrive by boat along the River Dart to Sharpham Estate’s award-winning winery and dairy near Totnes. From March to December visitors can trek around the vineyards and nature trails, there’s special activities planned for Easter, from May you can join the weekly Wednesday guided tour, or book ahead for the full-on Sharpham Experience. The friendly Vineyard Café opens again at Easter and offers bistro-style fare, including several Sharpham cheese-inspired dishes and platters.

One to watch

Regarded as England’s fastest-improving vineyard, Yearlstone’s wines continue to punch well above their weights in the annual English Wine of the Year competitions. Visitors can wander around the gently-sloping vineyards, book onto a tour, taste the wines in the cosy timber-clad café or take in the panoramic views on the terrace. Volunteers are welcome at harvest-time. For those wanting to take the plunge and become a vigneron, Roger White runs one-day courses on setting up your own winery and – as importantly – how to make a living from a vineyard.

To the manor born

Lose yourself in the romance of Broadfield Court estate. First mentioned in the Domesday book, parts of the house date back to the 14th century. Now in the capable hands of the James’ family, former actress and driving force, Alexandra, is determined to provide a relaxing retreat. Whether you wander among the tranquil forests, orchards and vines, take in the aromatic David Austin rose gardens, or visit the kitchen garden, leave time to sample both food and wine in the award-winning café. The peace and solitude may be dented a touch at Easter – there’s news of a free golden Easter egg hunt for the juniors.