Gusbourne English Garden Party

Your Journey

Board our quintessentially British train for a visit to Gusbourne, an award-winning winery in Appledore, Kent. Be immersed in art deco splendour, exceptional gastronomy and captivating scenery on board. Alight to discover the winemaking prowess of this exceptional, visionary producer.

Your journey today takes you to Gusbourne, a Kent winery founded with one vision: to create the finest wines in the world.

Focusing on the classic grape varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, the team at Gusbourne believes that the only way to ensure the quality of their grapes is to grow them themselves. The intensely flavoursome fruit used to craft their still and sparkling wines is sourced solely from Gusbourne vineyards, which occupy over 90 hectares – 60 in Appledore and 30 near the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex. Care, craft, traditional know-how and tireless patience allow the passionate Gusbourne winemakers to make the very best of what nature provides.

Since Gusbourne’s debut wines garnered critical acclaim in 2010, the brand has gone from strength to strength. In the 2022 Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships, the Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2018 beat off stiff international competition to be crowned World Champion Classic Vintage Brut. They claimed a further prestigious award in 2023, winning Best in Show at the World Decanter Awards for their delicious 2018 Blanc de Blancs.

Your day begins as you board British Pullman at London Victoria Station and settle into your plush art deco carriage. Chilled Bellini in hand, gaze out of the window as the vintage train begins its journey through the Garden of England. Linger over a lavish three-course brunch and take the opportunity to slow down and disconnect.

At Ashford, alight from the train and board the waiting coach for the journey to Gusbourne. It won’t be long before you savour your first sip of English sparkling wine. Take it with you to the top of Boot Hill, which offers panoramic views across the Pinot Noir vines and beyond towards Romney Marsh.

A relaxing afternoon awaits. Beneath the shade of three stretch marquees, you will discover three different wines produced by Gusbourne. Each is paired with sumptuous canapés featuring local and artisan produce. As you take your time over each guided tasting, pause to enjoy the band or perhaps try your hand at one of the lawn games on offer. Guided walking tours of the vineyard will also take place throughout the day.

More bubbles greet you back on board as you sink into your seat and chat about the day’s highlights. Savour a sumptuous three-course dinner with half a bottle of wine on the way back to London. Coffee and petits fours are served shortly before you reach your journey’s end.

Please note, your vineyard tour includes time walking outdoors, occasionally on uneven terrain, so we recommend you wear suitable footwear and outerwear for the weather conditions.