Our guide to Kent’s finest wine and food destinations
From vineyards to farm tables, we explore the culinary gems and world-renowned wineries of Kent.
“Kent, sir - everybody knows Kent - apples, cherries, hops, and women.” This quote from Charles Dickens beautifully encapsulates the essence of Kent, often heralded as the Garden of England. With its picturesque villages, rolling countryside and glorious beaches, Kent offers a scenic backdrop that is perfect for nurturing not just fruits and hops but also thriving communities.
Its proximity to London combined with excellent local schools makes it a prime location for those looking to enjoy the best of both rural and urban life. Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks are particularly popular property areas, each offering unique charm and comfort.
Kent’s reputation extends into wine, with many fondly re-branding the area as the Wine Garden of England. With over 50 vineyards, including some backed by the globally renowned champagne producers Taittinger, it won’t surprise that Kent is a central figure during the English Wine Week, which runs from June 15 – 23 this year.
This celebration of local viticulture mirrors the county’s rich contributions to the UK’s food and drink scene, including its pivotal role in the micropub craze and a host of food and drink festivals that showcase its gastronomic richness. Here, we explore some of the best food and drink on offer in Kent.
Chapel Down Winery
Located in Tenterden, Chapel Down is one of the UK’s largest wine producers, managing over 400 hectares of vineyards. Visitors to Chapel Down can tour the impressive winery, view the gleaming tanks, and explore the deli stocked with local fares. The on-site restaurant, The Swan, holds two AA rosettes and serves high-end dishes made with locally sourced produce alongside their award winning sparkling and still wines. With plans to expand and produce up to six million bottles by 2032, Chapel Down is a testament to Kent’s burgeoning wine scene.
The Pig at Bridge Place
This restaurant within the luxurious-yet-laid-back Pig outpost near Canterbury is a bastion of local and home-grown produce. With a strict 25-mile menu policy, The Pig celebrates local suppliers, ensuring that everything from the meat to the vegetables and even the fish comes from nearby sources. This practice not only supports local artisans but also guarantees the freshness and authenticity of the food, reflecting Kent’s rich agricultural landscape.
Squerryes
In Westerham, Sevenoaks, the 300-year-old Squerryes estate offers more than just wine. It features a notable restaurant, a deli, café and a Saturday market, creating a vibe that feels almost Californian. The estate’s confidence in its winemaking was bolstered by interest from a prestigious Champagne house in 2004, encouraging them to produce their now widely celebrated sparkling wines from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.
Westerham Brewery
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Westerham Brewery is a staple for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery offers a range of beers and hosts events like comedy nights and live music, providing a community hub that complements its café and taproom offerings.
Westwell
A newer addition to Kent’s wine scene, located near Ashford on the North Downs, Westwell is known for its innovative approaches to winemaking, including the trendy pét-nat style wines. The winery focuses on sustainability and minimal intervention, offering tours that conclude in their stylish tasting room, where they regularly host supper clubs and workshops.
The Sportsman
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Seasalter, The Sportsman is renowned for its exceptional quality and dedication to British produce. Its location along the coast influences its menu, which features locally sourced ingredients crafted into exquisite dishes.
The Mount Vineyard
In the idyllic village of Shoreham, The Mount Vineyard offers a quintessentially English wine experience. Visitors can enjoy tastings next to a log burner in winter or in the vineyard in summer. The vineyard is also a popular venue for live performances and boasts a courtyard restaurant that serves a range of local products.
The Small Holding
Located in Kilndown near Cranbrook, The Small Holding excels in farm-to-table dining, embodying the spirit of Kent’s agricultural richness. The restaurant, opened by brothers Will and Matt Devlin in 2018, is celebrated for its innovative use of local ingredients, offering a menu that changes with the seasons and reflects the true taste of the region.
With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes and vibrant culinary scene, Kent is a place where food, drink, and culture converge in a celebration of English tradition and innovation. For those considering making Kent their home, the region promises a lifestyle filled with flavour, community, and history, making it an ideal location for families and foodies alike.
