Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour on Iconic Vintage London Bus

Introduction

If you’re a fan of good wine and charming countryside scenery, this Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour on a vintage London bus promises a fun, relaxed way to explore the region’s sparkling wine scene. While I haven’t taken it myself, plenty of travelers have enjoyed this experience, praising its combination of delightful tastings, knowledgeable guides, and authentic Sussex charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the round-trip transport in a vintage Routemaster bus adds a nostalgic twist to your day. Second, you’ll visit two renowned local vineyards, each offering unique insights and tastings of award-winning sparkling wines. Lastly, the included picnic lunch with local Sussex produce gives you a taste of the region’s culinary delights, all set against picturesque vineyard views.

One thing to consider: the tour starts early and lasts around six and a half hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full day of exploring with some walking, wine, and good company. Ideal for wine enthusiasts, casual sippers, or anyone looking for a memorable day out in the English countryside, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, scenery, and good old British hospitality.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from Brighton simplifies the countryside trip.
• Visits to two top Sussex wineries with guided tours and tastings.
• Small-group setting ensures comfort and personalized attention.
• Includes a locally sourced picnic lunch among the vines.
• Vintage Routemaster bus adds nostalgic charm to the experience.
• Flexible options for purchasing wine and exploring grounds.

Detailed Review of the Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour

What to Expect From the Itinerary

This full-day tour is designed to give you a taste of Sussex’s sparkling wine world without the hassle of planning transport or navigating countryside roads yourself. The experience kicks off at the Leonardo Hotel Brighton, where you board a classic vintage Routemaster bus—a real highlight for many travelers who love a dose of British nostalgia.

First Stop: Court Gardens Farm

Your morning begins with a full tour of Court Gardens Farm, a charming vineyard where a knowledgeable guide introduces you to English wine production. As you walk among the vines, you’ll notice how the lush greenery contrasts with the more familiar wine regions. The guide explains the journey from grape to glass, which many reviews found both educational and engaging.

Following the tour, you’ll enjoy a tutored tasting on the sun-terrace overlooking the vineyard, where at least four award-winning sparkling wines are sampled. Reviewers like Nichola_C noted that the wines from Court Garden were “lovely,” and she appreciated the chance to try different styles and learn about English wine making from start to finish.

Picnic Lunch Amongst the Vines

A real treat is the picnic hamper filled with locally produced Sussex goodies—quiches, breads, salads, chutneys, and homemade cakes. The hamper is paired with a glass of English wine, and travelers often rave about how well the lunch complements the scenic setting. Wendy_H, for example, mentioned the homemade quiche and cakes as a highlight, especially on a hot day when shade was available under the vineyard trees.

This picnic allows you to relax and soak in the vineyard atmosphere, with many guests choosing to wander amongst the vines or sit quietly and enjoy the views.

Afternoon: Bluebell Vineyard Estates

After a leisurely lunch, the tour continues to Bluebell Vineyard Estates, where a second guided tasting awaits. Here, you’ll sample still and sparkling wines, with the guide providing insights into the different styles and production techniques.

Reviewers like Chris_V appreciated the relaxing atmosphere and the opportunity to browse the gift shop or stroll the grounds. The grounds are described as beautiful, offering a peaceful setting for wine tasting and reflection.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a classic Routemaster bus provides a unique, scenic journey through Sussex’s countryside. Many reviews highlight how the bus adds a nostalgic, fun element that elevates the experience beyond just winery visits. The tours typically accommodate up to 30 travelers, but the small group size ensures plenty of space and interaction with guides.

Guides and Education

Guides like Danny from Great British Wine Tours are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Reviewers consistently mention that guides are well-informed, able to answer questions about wine production, and share interesting facts about Sussex’s wine history.

Value for Money and Pricing

At approximately $200 per person, the tour includes transportation, visits to two wineries, guided tastings, a picnic lunch, and the scenic ride in a vintage bus. Many guests feel this price offers good value, especially considering the quality of wines sampled and the personalized attention. As Chris_V pointed out, the experience packs a lot of value into a single day, from the tastings to the setting and guided commentary.

Weather Considerations

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, proper clothing is recommended, especially if rain is forecast. Many reviews mention how the outdoor portions, like the vineyard tours and picnic, can be enjoyed regardless of the weather, thanks to available shade and shelter.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about English sparkling wines with a relaxed, guided approach. It’s also ideal for those interested in British countryside scenery, vintage transport, and a taste of local Sussex produce. The tour’s small-group setting fosters a convivial atmosphere, making it suitable for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a memorable day in the countryside.

If you’re after luxury or gourmet dining, this might not be the best fit, as the focus is more on wine, scenery, and a casual picnic. However, for a fun, educational, and authentic experience that combines history, good wine, and charming scenery, this tour offers excellent value.

Practical Information

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours 30 minutes
• Meeting Point: Leonardo Hotel Brighton, 101 Stroudley Rd
• Start Time: 10:00 AM (Saturday)
• Price: Around $200.13 per person
• Includes: Transport, winery tours, tastings, picnic lunch, guide, and small-group experience
• Booking in advance: Recommended, with an average booking window of 77 days
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate; please specify dietary requirements when booking
• Weather: Operates in all conditions—dress appropriately

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour is focused on wine tastings, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenic drives, learn about wine production, and participate in the picnic lunch. It’s a flexible experience for those who prefer to skip tastings, but some parts involve tasting multiple wines.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 18, owing to alcohol consumption regulations.

What is included in the picnic lunch?
The hamper contains locally produced goodies like quiches, breads, salads, chutneys, and homemade cakes, served with a glass of English wine.

Can I buy wine at the vineyards?
Absolutely. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the vineyard gift shops after tastings.

How comfortable is the vintage bus?
The Routemaster bus is well-maintained and provides a nostalgic, comfortable ride through Sussex. It’s a highlight for many travelers, adding a vintage charm to the day.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—layers for cooler days, sun protection for sunny days. Since part of the experience is outdoors, comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if it rains?
The tour runs in all weather conditions, so you might find the vineyard tours and picnic are adapted with shelter or indoor options if needed.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 77 days ahead is typical, especially during peak seasons, to secure spots on this popular tour.

Final Thoughts

The Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines the joy of wine tasting with the charm of British countryside scenery. Traveling in a vintage Routemaster bus, visiting two top vineyards, and enjoying a picnic among the vines make for a memorable day. The knowledgeable guides, high-quality wines, and relaxed pace make this a compelling choice for those wanting to explore Sussex’s sparkling wine scene without the stress of self-organizing.

Ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a unique day trip from Brighton, this tour delivers value and genuine insight into England’s growing reputation in sparkling wine production. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a scenic, tasty escape, this experience ticks all the boxes.

Final Words

This tour provides an excellent blend of scenic transport, insightful winery visits, and delicious local food, making it a standout choice for a full day of relaxing exploration. The vintage bus adds a nostalgic touch that elevates the experience from ordinary to memorable. Suitable for small groups, it offers enough intimacy for personalized attention, making it a top pick for couples or friends.

While the price might seem steep, the inclusion of tastings, lunch, and transport in a charming setting justifies it for many travelers. If your goal is to learn about Sussex’s sparkling wines, enjoy beautiful views, and indulge in some good old-fashioned British hospitality, this tour is certainly worth considering.

Note: Always check the latest details and availability before booking, as timings and conditions can change.