Unwin(e)d in Sussex with the perfect pairing of wine and wellness, taking time to explore the area’s exceptional vineyards and relaxing in sensational spas.
Visit in summer and enjoy the vines at their prime as the grapes ripen and the Sussex countryside stretches out for miles of rolling green views. Or get cosy in the cooler months with the crunch of autumn leaves on walks around the vineyards and sparkling festive events.
Day one: sip and spa your way around Mid Sussex at the Bolney Wine Estate and Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa
An introduction to Sussex wine at one of the oldest vineyards in England, followed by a delightful spa afternoon.
Begin your Sussex wine adventure with a visit to Bolney Wine Estate (closest train stations Haywards Heath or Burgess Hill, 15-minute drive). As one of England’s first vineyards, established over 50 years ago, Bolney makes for an excellent introduction to the Sussex and English wine scene. Mature yet modern, with an inviting terrace and wraparound balcony at its timber-clad restaurant – The Eighteen Acre.
Book ahead to enjoy the Bolney Wine Pairing Tour and Tasting, which includes a vineyard and winery tour followed by a tasting session featuring a selection of Bolney’s award-winning wines.
Look out for Bolney’s special seasonal events, such as Pilates and Yoga classes in the vineyard in the summer, and festive Christmas events in the winter.
After a morning of wine wandering, head to Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa in Cuckfield, a short 10-minute drive from Bolney, to relish the relaxation offered by Ockenden’s spectacular contemporary spa. Swim between the indoor and outdoor pools separated by panoramic picture windows, take the weight off with the Isopod saltwater floatation tank, and refresh with the walk-through rainforest shower fed by Ockenden's own natural underground spring.
Suitably zen, float your way to dinner for an elegant evening meal at Ockenden Manor Restaurant.
Day two: walks and wine at Ridgeview and Albourne estates
Swim into a fine day filled with trails and tastings at two outstanding boutique Sussex vineyards.
Start the day with a morning swim or Yoga class and breakfast at Ockenden Manor before heading to Ridgeview Wine Estate, located just north of the picturesque village of Ditchling.
Enjoy a classic tour and wine tasting bookable in advance or explore at your leisure with the free self-guided audio tour and woodland walk – stunning throughout the seasons – or simply ‘sip’ back and enjoy the vineyard views with some light bites on the roof terrace of Ridgeview’s contemporary vineyard restaurant – The Rows & Vine.
Head west to family-owned boutique vineyard the Albourne Estate for a welcoming and friendly visit to the tasting room (open on Saturdays and Sundays in the summer season) with stunning views from the south-facing balcony overlooking the South Downs. Pick up a map from the tasting room and follow the self-guided vineyard trail.
Having worked up an appetite, head to The Ginger Fox for some hearty local pub food enjoyed in the beer garden in fine weather or get cosy inside in the winter.
Return to Ockenden Manor for a sunset swim in the spa.
Day three: rambling and rejuvenation at Kingscote Estate and Alexander House Utopia Spa
Finish your trip with a final vineyard visit and replenish at an Edenic spa.
Begin your final day with a visit to Kingscote Estate & Vineyard near East Grinstead. Book and join the 90-minute wine tour and tasting or explore the estate’s five kilometres of woodland walks through Kingscote Valley, keeping an eye out for the historic Bluebell Railway steam train.
For some final R&R, check in for the night or book in for a spa afternoon at the Alexander House Utopia Spa, which includes a 40-minute treatment, lunch or afternoon tea, and full use of Utopia Spa facilities.
Head home relaxed and replenished, and maybe with a case of Sussex wine to savour your stay!
How to get there
Tucked between London and the South Coast of England, and just minutes from London Gatwick Airport, Mid Sussex is easily accessible yet feels like a world away.
By plane
Mid Sussex is just minutes from London Gatwick Airport by car or train, making it an ideal first or last place to explore when flying to or from England.
There are direct trains from London Gatwick to Haywards Heath (10 minutes) and Burgess Hill (15 minutes).
By train
Mid Sussex is connected directly to Central London and other major UK stations and the coast. The main train stations are:
East Grinstead (one hour from London Victoria)
Haywards Heath (45 minutes from London Victoria)
Burgess Hill (50 minutes from London Victoria)
By car
Easily accessible from London and Brighton.
From London (60 to 90 minutes): A23/M23 southbound
From Brighton (30 to 40 minutes): A23 northbound
Getting around
By train and bus
Bus services link smaller villages and areas not served by rail.
Metrobus is the largest provider in the area, connecting East Grinstead, Haywards Heath, and Burgess Hill.
Compass Travel serves rural routes and towns, including smaller village connections like Ditchling, Lindfield, and Cuckfield.
By car
Travelling around by car offers the most flexibility. Car rental is easy from London Gatwick Airport or major towns like Haywards Heath.
Electric vehicle charge points are available across the district and conveniently located in many car parks. Search EV charging locations here.
A variety of local taxi firms operate in the area.
More time to explore? Try these other Mid Sussex itineraries
