By William Coleman
Food and drink is one of the things I look forward to the most when I am planning my trips away. Some would say I go away just to find new things to eat and drink. So if you’re like me then this article should get your taste buds tingling.
At first you may not think of the UK as a wine producer. Italy, Spain or France may spring to mind. The UK actually have some fantastic wine producing vineyards not too far from where you live.
From the depths of East Anglia to heart of the Midlands, the Caravan and Motorhome Club has sites located near vineyards to suit every type of wine lover. From dedicated oenophiles to those who just enjoy a tipple or two, these sites are the perfect spot to “wine” down and enjoy the fruits of the winegrower’s labours.
With membership starting from just £51 per year for two people, why not take advantage of the year round benefits and set off on a vino adventure?
Here are five of the Club’s idyllic sites to stay at located close to some of the UK’s finest vineyards:
Camel Valley Vineyard, Cornwall– Camelford Club Site
Set across 82 acres of land, Camel Valley Vineyard is one of the UK’s most celebrated vineyards and is the largest Vineyard in Cornwall. In 2008 and 2015 Camels Valleys Pinot Noir Rose Brut won gold at the International Wine Challenge, making it a very well-known supplier in the vino world. The Camelford Club Site is 11 miles away from the Camel Valley Vineyard and is an ideal location for families, beach lovers and walkers alike. The site is also close to coastal villages like Port Isaac, famous for being the backdrop to Doc Martin, and Port Gaverne. Why not enjoy a glass of Camel Valleys wine with Cornish delicacies whilst watching the sunset in one of these picturesque areas.
From £16.30 per standard pitch per night based on two adults sharing
Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, Staffordshire– Stanmore Hall Touring Park
The wine loft at Halfpenny Green offer wines from sourced directly from their vineyard. Accompanied by cheese and crackers from their on-site deli, as soon as visitors step foot on the estate there is a real sense of home. Stanmore Hall offers a great hotspot to pitch up and stumble home after a few glasses. The site is set on beautiful grounds approximately 6 miles from Halfpenny Green Wine Estate and within the peaceful grounds there is a 2 acre lake and resident peacocks. The site is a popular on the network with those seeking rest and relaxation with its secluded vibe. Nearby towns which are filled with characteristic architecture are a short drive away.
From £31.90 per standard pitch per night based on two adults sharing
Harrow and Hope, Buckinghamshire– Henley Four Oaks Club Site
Situated in the heart of the home county of Buckinghamshire, the Harrow and Hope vineyard offers tours of its winery, vineyard and wine tasting sessions. Known for its Brut Cava, the vineyard is relatively young in comparison having been running for only eight years. For the ultimate break, stay at the Henley Four Oaks Club Site which is around 9 miles from the vineyard. Set in pleasant green surroundings, the site is filled with mature trees that enhance the areas natural beauty. The quaint town of Henley is also very beautiful and wine lovers can pick up a bottle of Harrow and Hope wines at the traditional English country pubs around there.
From £18 per standard pitch per night based on two adults sharing
Sharpham Wine and Cheese, Devon– Steamer Quay Club Site
Located on the English Riviera in Devon, Sharpham Wine and Cheese is a serious producer of over a dozen wines as well as unpasteurised cheeses. Lying on an estate that was created by famous 18th century landscape architect, Capability Brown, visitors can wander on a self-directed trek and taste across the vineyard. There is also the option of a guided tour too. The Steamer Quay Club Site is situated 4 miles away from Sharpham and comes complete with stunning views. The site is only a short walk from the bustling town of Totnes, where there is a vast choice of pubs and restaurants. The stunning village of Dartington is nearby too and houses an outdoor theatre and cinema. There are also boats trips to the pretty harbour town of Dartmouth.
From £16.30 per standard pitch per night based on two adults sharing
Winbirri Vineyard, Norfolk– Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club Site
East Anglian based vineyard Winbirri, operates throughout the year offering vineyard tours and tasting experience days. Visitors are guided by head winemaker Leer Dyer around the vineyards to make the experience that little bit more personal and offering the chance to learn about the award-winning Winbirri wines from grape to bottle. For the ultimate combo, stay at Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club Site which is located 24 miles from Winbirri. The site is only a short distance from the sea making it ideal for sunbathers and beach goers. There is also a bus stop just outside the site which makes many attractions within easy reach, including the sea life centre and Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens.
