Key Takeaways:
- Cornwall and Devon are part of a fast-growing English wine region, with around 75–80 vineyards combined.
- The South West’s mild coastal climate supports high-quality cool-climate wine production.
- Key grape varieties include Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Seyval Blanc and Solaris.
- Vineyard tourism is booming, with many offering tours, tastings, dining and events.
Why Cornwall and Devon are great places for a vineyard visit
Ideal growing conditions
- Long summers
- Mild winters
- Coastal climate
…create ideal conditions for grape growing.
Award-winning English wines
Vineyards like Camel Valley and Sandridge Barton have achieved:
- International recognition
- UK and Regional Awards as flagship English vineyards
Stunning vineyard settings
Expect vineyards set within:
- River valleys
- Rolling countryside
- Near the coast
Food and wine experiences
Many vineyards now offer:
- Restaurants
- Food pairing experiences
- Seasonal menus
Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere
Unlike traditional wine regions:
- No formal knowledge needed
- Friendly, accessible experiences
Wine tasting and tours in Devon and South East Cornwall
Staying at Kernock Cottages puts you in one of the best locations for vineyard exploration in the South West, with easy access to both Cornwall and Devon.
Featured vineyards near Kernock Cottages
Vineyard | Distance | Highlights |
~10–15 mins | Closest vineyard; small, relaxed and local experience | |
~30 mins | Boutique vineyard with peaceful valley setting | |
~35 mins | Friendly vineyard with tastings near Dartmoor | |
~45–50 mins | Cornwall’s most famous vineyard; award-winning wines and tours | |
~50–55 mins | Winery, restaurant and events venue with vibrant atmosphere | |
~60 mins | Established vineyard with ROAM restaurant and scenic Dart Valley views |
Tip: Staying at Kernock means you can easily visit multiple vineyards in one trip, something not possible in many regions.
How to choose a vineyard to visit
English wines and vineyards in Devon and Corwall
Each vineyard offers a different experience:
Vineyard | Style | Best For | Key Features |
Tamar Valley Vineyard | Small & local | Quick trips | Quiet, authentic setting |
Looe Valley Vineyard | Boutique | Relaxed visits | Small-scale production |
Alder Vineyard | Informal | Friendly experience | Tastings and countryside feel |
Camel Valley | Premium | Classic vineyard trip | Tours, tastings, iconic wines |
Knightor Winery | Social & food-led | Food + events | Tours, tastings, dining, feast nights |
Sandridge Barton | Scenic & refined | Views + food | Tours, tastings, dining, shop |
Planning your trip day out
- Best explored by car (and if you are driving let the others choose a wine and buy a bottle for when you get back to Kernock)
- Book tours in advance
- Allow:
- 2–3 hours per vineyard
- Half/full day if combining experiences
- Check dining options
Create a full day out
Tamar Valley Vineyard + Cotehele
- Morning vineyard visit
- Explore National Trust estate
Camel Valley + Padstow
- Vineyard tour
- Lunch in Padstow
- Coastal walk
Knightor Winery + Eden Project
- Morning at Eden Project
- Lunch, tastings or event at Knightor
One of the best full-day combinations from Kernock Cottages
Sandridge Barton + Totnes
- Vineyard visit
- Explore Totnes
Alder Vineyard + Dartmoor
- Vineyard tasting
- Dartmoor walk
FAQs
How many vineyards are in Cornwall and Devon?
- Cornwall: ~20
- Devon: ~59
What wines are produced?
- Sparkling wine
- White, rosé and red wines
What grapes are grown?
- Bacchus
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Noir
- Seyval Blanc
- Solaris
Do vineyards offer tours?
Yes—most offer:
- Tours
- Tastings
- Food experiences
When is the best time to visit?
- Spring to autumn
- Summer for:
- Outdoor experiences
- Events
Final thoughts on an English Wine experience
A vineyard visit is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Cornwall and Devon.
From local hidden gems in the Tamar Valley to destination vineyards like Sandridge Barton, Camel Valley and Knightor Winery, you’ll find:
- Relaxed experiences
- Fantastic food and wine
- Beautiful landscapes
Staying at Kernock Cottages, you are perfectly positioned to explore them all.
