Brighton may be famous for its lively pier, quirky shops, and vibrant arts scene, but it’s also an excellent base for exploring England’s wine country. The proximity to Sussex’s vineyards and scenic coast makes it perfect for wine lovers seeking a variety of experiences—whether that’s soaring in the i360, sailing into sunset, or biking through rolling hills. We’re especially fond of the Brighton: Sunset Sailing Cruise with a Glass of Wine because it combines the serenity of the sea with the romance of a sunset toast. But if you prefer to stay on land, the Sussex Wine Tour on a Vintage Bus offers a classic countryside adventure with tastings and a delicious vineyard lunch.
Brighton’s wine tours range from quick sky-high views to full-day vineyard explorations, including walking tours, eBike adventures, and coastal sailing. Whether you’re after a quick sip with panoramic views or a full immersion into Sussex wine-making, this list has something for every kind of wine enthusiast.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of these top-rated Brighton-area wine tours, complete with what makes them special, their highlights, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Brighton: i360 Entry & Champagne (Soft Drink for Under 18s)
At number 1, the Brighton: i360 Entry & Champagne offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Brighton and the South Coast from 138 meters above ground. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a celebratory drink. The 25-minute experience inside the glass pod promises sweeping 360-degree views, making it easy to identify key landmarks like Brighton Pier and the rolling Downs.
What makes this experience truly stand out is the Sky Bar, where you can sip a glass of champagne or soft drinks while soaking in the scenery. The prebooked timeslot ensures you avoid waiting in line, and the entire experience is both relaxing and awe-inspiring. It’s ideal for visitors who want a quick but memorable highlight during their stay.
This tour is very accessible, especially since it offers a soft drink option for under 18s. It’s also a great choice if you’re traveling with family or friends with mixed ages. The view from 138 meters above the coast really is the best way to get a sense of Brighton’s layout.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those short on time but eager for panoramic views and a bit of bubbly—this tour offers a compact, memorable experience with a spectacular vista.
2. Brighton: Sunset Sailing Cruise with a Glass of Wine
For a different kind of wine experience, the Brighton: Sunset Sailing Cruise with a Glass of Wine takes you out onto the water for two hours of relaxing sailing. Led by a qualified RYA skipper, this tour offers a serene voyage along Brighton’s coast as the sun dips toward the horizon.
During the trip, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the English Channel—a truly romantic setting—and sip on a glass of sparkling wine as the boat glides past iconic sights. The quiet moments on deck are complemented by the chance to take the helm and assist with sailing, making it more interactive than a typical cruise.
What makes this tour stand out is its peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy Brighton from a different perspective. The limited reviews (12) rave about the friendly crew and the unforgettable sunset views.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a peaceful, romantic way to enjoy Brighton’s coast and sunset views with a glass of wine, this sailing cruise is a perfect match.
3. From Brighton: Sussex Wine Tour on a Vintage Bus with Lunch
At number 3, the Sussex Wine Tour on a Vintage Bus offers a full day exploring award-winning vineyards in style. This 6.5-hour journey combines nostalgic travel on a 1960s London bus with tastings, tours, and a delicious vineyard lunch, making it an excellent choice for wine lovers who appreciate history and authenticity.
The tour visits two top wineries, where you’ll meet the vineyard managers and learn about English winemaking techniques. The tastings include a variety of sparkling and still wines, with guided tutored sessions to help you understand what sets Sussex wines apart. The included lunch, served among the vines, features homemade, locally sourced dishes that complement the wines.
The overall value is high, given the coverage of two vineyards, the vintage bus experience, and the comprehensive tasting sessions. The reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere, beautiful vineyard settings, and the contrast between the two wineries—a positive reminder of the diversity within English wine.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in a full day of wine, history, and countryside charm, especially if you enjoy storytelling along with tastings.
4. Brighton: Sussex Wine Region Walking Tour with Tastings
For a more active day, the Sussex Wine Region Walking Tour with Tastings provides a 7.5-hour guided exploration on foot, combined with visits to two award-winning vineyards and a charming village, Ditchling. The tour begins with pickups from Brighton and involves some scenic walking and village exploration.
This tour offers a more immersive experience—you get to walk through the Sussex countryside, visit a vineyard and winery, and indulge in tastings of sparkling wines in a relaxed setting. The visit to Ditchling includes a pub lunch, giving you a taste of local life while soaking in the scenery.
The tour emphasizes sustainability, using public transport and walking to minimize environmental impact. Reviewers enjoyed the friendly guides and the chance to see the countryside up close, making this suitable for active travelers who want to combine walking, sightseeing, and wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who enjoy walking and want a fuller, more engaged experience of Sussex’s wine country and villages.
5. Ebike Tour Albourne Estate: Wine Tasting and Downs eBiking
Ranking number 5, the Ebike Tour at Albourne Estate is a fun, active way to explore the South Downs. For around 4.5 hours, you’ll combine eBike riding with visits to a local vineyard, tasting some of Sussex’s finest wines.
The tour includes scenic rolling hills and the opportunity to enjoy fine wines in a relaxed setting. The eBikes make it accessible for most fitness levels, and the combination of fresh air, countryside views, and wine makes for a memorable day. This experience is highly rated, with a perfect 5/5 from reviewers who appreciate the balance of activity and leisure.
It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities but want to combine that with wine tasting. The tour is relatively flexible and offers a blend of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers looking to enjoy Sussex’s landscapes and wines in one smooth, engaging experience.
6. From Brighton: Denbies Vineyard Wine Tour and Tasting
Finally, at number 6, the Denbies Vineyard Tour and Tasting provides a comprehensive visit to one of England’s most famous vineyards. The 6-hour tour includes insights into wine production and a tasting session that features wine and champagne.
Denbies is known for its large scale and innovative approach, offering spectacular scenic views of the countryside as you learn about the vineyard’s history and process. With a strong reputation—reflected in a perfect 5/5 review rating—this tour is suitable for those wanting a deeper understanding of English wine-making.
The trip ends with a view of Devil’s Dyke, adding to the overall experience. The focus here is on learning and tasting, making it ideal for serious wine enthusiasts or those curious about the behind-the-scenes of English wine production.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine devotees eager to explore a major vineyard operation with a professional, educational approach.
How to Choose the Right Brighton Wine Tour
When deciding among these options, think about your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. For quick panoramic views combined with bubbly, the i360 experience is ideal. If you want a romantic, peaceful outing, the sailing cruise offers unmatched scenery. For a full-day wine immersion, the vintage bus tour provides a combination of tastings, history, and countryside charm.
Active travelers may prefer the eBike tour, which blends outdoor adventure with wine tasting, while those looking for a more in-depth look at Sussex vineyards will enjoy the Denbies Vineyard tour. Consider your budget, time, and physical activity preference when booking.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer, to secure your preferred date. Many of these tours provide a mix of guided insight and independent tasting, so choose one that best fits your curiosity and pace.
Brighton offers a versatile range of wine-related experiences—whether you’re after high-altitude views, coastal serenity, or countryside exploration. Each tour delivers its own flavor, so pick the one that best suits your style and get ready for a memorable sip of Sussex’s finest wines.