Winter walks and wine experiences in Sussex

Make Ridgeview your basecamp

Our first tip, naturally, would be to pay Ridgeview a visit this winter. Far from hibernating, the start of the year sees the estate alive with activity, purpose and anticipation. In the vineyard, the team is gearing up for winter pruning, while our winemakers’ thoughts now turn to blending trials for our new 2023 wines. Plus, with our Winery Shop open year round, this is a great time to book a Tour and Tasting Experience in Sussex.

Of course, you’ll want to sustain yourself for your excursions. We can take care of you in this regard too – and in style. Our Rows & Vine restaurant has taken up residence in our winery this winter, giving you a front-row seat on winemaking in action. The ambience is cosy and contemporary; the menu seasonal, hearty, locally sourced and delicious. 

Before you tuck in at the Rows & Vine, why not stop off at the Winery Shop for a spot of self-sommeliering? Whether you drop in or book a tutored tasting, it’s a chance for you to try our range and pick your favourite to go with your meal.

Get back to nature on Ditchling Common

Less than a mile from Ridgeview is Ditchling Common Country Park, a tranquil patchwork of woodlands, lakes and open parkland. Famous in spring for its carpet of bluebells, the Common has its own quiet majesty in winter. 

Criss-crossed by walking trails leading to secluded glades and still, silent lakes, it’s the countryside at its most contemplative. Every flitting robin and frosted cobweb seems to be there for you and you alone. If you’re craving those reflective moments reconnecting with nature, we can’t think of a better winter wanderland.

Make a weekend of it

Up to this point, we’ve ventured less than five miles from Ridgeview. We haven’t even touched on the nearby delights of Brighton or Lewes, nor the brilliant local producers who supply The Rows & Vine. With so much to explore in our area, it’s well worth devoting an entire winter weekend to your visit. 

Fortunately, we can point you to some of our favourite local accommodation, with a couple of special mentions. If you’re looking to treat yourself to a little luxury (something we all deserve at this time of year), our friends at South Lodge Hotel are ready to take the very best care of you. 

An immaculately maintained country house set in 92 acres of Sussex countryside, South Lodge is home to award-winning dining and a state-of-the-art sustainable spa. Ridgeview flows freely in the bar and restaurant, but our vinous connection to South Lodge has gone even deeper since its 15-acre on-site vineyard came under our stewardship last year.

For those looking to self-cater in style, our second accommodation tip is Huluki Sussex Stays. Huluki has curated a unique collection of holiday lets around the county, all complete with character or period features. These high-end homes-from-home are a great way to immerse yourself in Sussex life for a weekend, with all the luxe touches you need to relax fully after your days of adventure.