Exploring the Chilterns: An All-Inclusive Vineyard Tour with Tastings & Lunch
If you’re someone who loves good wine and beautiful countryside, this vineyard tour in the Chilterns might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it sounds like a thoughtfully put together day for those eager to learn about boutique wines, meet passionate owners, and enjoy some seriously tasty food.
What really stands out are the chance to meet the vineyard owners—who are often award winners—and the opportunity to sample their best wines in a relaxed setting. Plus, the fact that transportation from Amersham Station is included takes some of the hassle out of planning. On the flip side, keep in mind that this tour isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women, so it’s a trip tailored more to adult wine enthusiasts.
This tour looks like a great fit for anyone curious about natural wine or looking for a leisurely day out in the countryside. Whether you’re a local wanting to explore more of the Chilterns or a visitor seeking a guided experience with excellent wine, it might just hit the right note.
Key Points
- Visit three boutique vineyards with unique stories and award-winning wines
- Meet the owners and gain insight into their natural winemaking processes
- Enjoy a guided tour of vineyard operations and the countryside surroundings
- Savor a substantial lunch with 16 meal options, paired with local wines
- Transportation from Amersham Station is included for convenience
- Not suitable for children or pregnant women due to alcohol and age restrictions
A Closer Look at the Vineyard Tour Experience
When considering a day like this, it’s helpful to understand what makes it stand out and what might be less ideal. This tour offers a well-rounded experience with three different vineyards, each bringing something special to the table. The fact that it’s all-inclusive means you don’t have to worry about extra costs—your tastings, lunch, and transport are covered from the start.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Starting at Amersham Station around 9:45 am, the journey officially kicks off with a pickup and a short ride to Daws Hill Vineyard. Here, you’ll meet Holly, the owner, and get a tour of her winery. This part is especially appealing if you’re interested in learning about how wines are made—plus, Holly’s wines are accompanied by nibbles, which makes for a nice introduction.
Next, you’re off to Woodfine Vineyard, where Richard introduces you to his natural wine-making approach. This is a highlight for those who are curious about alternative or more sustainable wine processes. The opportunity to see the vines firsthand and chat with the owner makes the experience more personal and educational. After this visit, a hearty lunch awaits, offering a selection of 16 meal options paired with wines from the vineyards—so you get a real taste of the region’s offerings.
The last stop is Dropmore Vineyard, hosted by Feona, where you’ll enjoy a final tasting in an intimate setting. This boutique vineyard gives you a chance to soak in the authentic charm of a small-scale operation, which many find particularly memorable.
What to Expect at Each Stop
The visits to each vineyard are not just about tasting wine—they’re about understanding the passion behind each bottle. Multiple reviews mention the excellent wine selection as a standout feature, which suggests that each vineyard takes pride in offering high-quality, well-curated options.
The guided tours of the vineyards are designed to be accessible, even if you’re not a wine expert. Expect to learn about the winemaking process, the specific practices of each owner, and what makes their wines unique. This makes the experience educational without feeling overly technical.
The Lunch Experience
One of the tour’s key selling points is the lunch with 16 options, which caters to a variety of tastes. While some reviews note that the meal options are quite diverse, the focus remains on pairing the food with the local wines, making it a true regional tasting experience. The meal adds significant value, giving you a chance to relax, chat, and savor the flavors of the Chilterns.
More Great Tours NearbyTransport & Group Size
Travel between vineyards is no longer than 35 minutes, which keeps the day moving at a comfortable pace. The transportation is a big plus—it takes away the need to navigate unfamiliar roads or worry about drink-driving. The group is a private one, meaning it’s tailored to your party and offers a more intimate setting.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Looking at the reviews and details, this tour seems to offer a lot for wine lovers. The excellent wine selection and the chance to meet passionate owners stand out as particularly memorable. The included lunch elevates the experience from a simple tasting to a full-day indulgence.
However, it’s worth noting that the tour might feel a bit structured if you prefer more free time or spontaneous exploration. The focus on natural and boutique wines could also mean some offerings are more niche, which might not suit everyone’s palate.
Who’s It Best For?
This experience is particularly suited for adults who enjoy wine, are interested in learning about small-scale vineyard operations, and appreciate a relaxing day in the countryside. It’s ideal for those who value guided experiences and don’t mind a structured itinerary. Since children and pregnant women aren’t allowed, it’s not a family-friendly outing but rather a grown-up wine adventure.
Practical Details & Considerations
The tour is priced to reflect an all-inclusive day—covering transport, tastings, and lunch—and that convenience can justify the cost for many. It’s a fairly full day, running from approximately 9:45 am to 4 pm, with travel times kept to a minimum so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the vineyards and bring a camera for capturing the countryside views. Weather can be variable, so dressing weather-appropriate is smart.
The pickup and drop-off from Amersham Station make it easy to join if you’re staying in London or nearby. Just remember that the tour requires pre-booking, with the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated, wine-focused day in the Chilterns, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a rare chance to meet passionate vineyard owners, sample a variety of excellent wines, and enjoy a hearty regional lunch—all in a stunning countryside setting.
The fact that the tour is private means it can be tailored slightly to your preferences, and the inclusion of transportation reduces stress. While it’s not suited for children or those not of legal drinking age, adults who appreciate quality wine and authentic stories will find plenty to love here.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for a leisurely, wine-centric escape that combines learning, tasting, and scenic views—all wrapped into one well-organized day.
Chilterns: All inclusive Vineyard Tour with Tastings & Lunch
FAQ
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is it possible to pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot now and pay nothing today, giving you flexibility in planning.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Dr A Wood & Partners in Amersham, with pickup at 9:45 am and return around 4 pm.
How long is each vineyard visit?
Typically, each vineyard visit lasts around 1 to 2 hours, with the total day structured to keep travel between sites brief.
Is it suitable for non-drinkers or people with dietary restrictions?
While the tour focuses on wine tasting, the lunch offers 16 meal options, so dietary needs can usually be accommodated.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since there’s some walking involved.
Is this experience family-friendly?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, as the focus is on wine tasting.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is a private group, so it’s tailored to your party, ensuring a more intimate experience.
If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day exploring boutique vineyards with knowledgeable hosts and top-notch wines, this tour may just be worth considering. It combines education, tasting, and scenery in a way that feels both special and accessible.
You can check availability for your dates here:
