Let’s not deny it, you can’t visit a vineyard without having a glass of their delicious fruity wine or visit a brewery or distillery without a tipple of their finest beer, cider or spirit. Well, you can, but let’s be honest, you’re not really getting the full experience. Saying that, there are always the alcohol free options and juices that taste just as good (believe us, we know!) So whatever you're heading there for, be sure to plan ahead and make the most of the public transport that leads to Kent’s award-wining produce.
Biddenden Vineyards
Visiting from outside the picturesque village of Biddenden? Maybe hopping on a train from London? Then you’ll be pleased to know the popular vineyard is just a 10 minute drive from Headcorn rail station. So, hop in a taxi and you’ll be on your way. Getting to Headcorn rail station is easy too! With regular trains from London and the journey taking just one hour. Pre-book your taxi when you arrive at Headcorn so you waste no time in heading straight over to the vineyards where you’ll find 23 acres of vines to explore on a self-guided tour, followed by tastings of the wines of your choice.
NorthDown Brewery
Fancy a beer brewed by the sea? Well, you can get just that at NorthDown brewery located just outside of Margate. Getting there couldn’t be easier! Why not take the bus service ‘The Loop’ or ‘8’ where you’ll arrive at your stop to take a short walk to the brewery. You could even head to your local train station and hop off at Margate, before grabbing a short 10 minute taxi ride to the brewery.
Ramsgate Brewery
If you’re in Thanet then you may as well pay a visit to another brewery whilst you’re there! Ramsgate Brewery is located just outside of Margate and Broadstairs and can also be reached by bus services ‘The Loop’ and ‘34’. Enjoy the scenic views of Ramsgate on a short walk to the brewery from the bus stop. Arrive to find Kentish style ales showcasing local hop varieties and visit their shop & taproom open Thursday to Sundays 12-5pm.
Shepherd Neame Brewery
We've all been to a cosy Shepherd Neame pub or dined alfresco-style at a Shepherd Neame beer garden, right? Good, we're glad to hear it. But, ever thought about how that traditional Kentish ale is brewed? Probably not, because you’re more focused on drinking it, but wouldn’t it be great to know! Yes? Fabulous! Now we’ve got that cleared up, you’ll be pleased to hear that the brewery is just a short walk from Faversham Station, around 5 minutes to be exact. The station also has regular trains arriving from London, so don’t worry, you Londoners won’t miss out!
Copper Rivet
Next stop, Copper Rivet Distillery. Just under an hours train ride from London or a 9 minute drive from Chatham Station and your taxi will pull up to one of the UK’s only multi-disciplinary farm to glass distilleries. Hmm, sounds, riveting, did you see what we did there? Anyway, back to it… The tours include a tasting of their crafted spirits and end with a complimentary gin or vodka based drink at the Pumproom cocktail bar and restaurant.
Curious Brewery
Craft beer brewed right on site, brewery tours, pizzas fresh from the oven and your four-legged friend right next to you - heaven, right? With a range of taproom specials and seasonal brews, a restaurant that serves the ultimate comfort food, and a friendly welcome for fur-riends, it's no wonder this iconic brewery in Ashford is one of our favourite weekend spots for dinner and drinks with the dog. Better yet, Ashford International Station is just a few minutes away, so you can ditch the designated driver hat and sample the Kentish Pilsner and Curious Brew Lager.
Simpsons Wine Estate
Wine Tasting Experience, Vineyard & Winery Tour & Tasting Experience, Sunset Sessions… Anyone else feeling thirsty? We certainly are. But, that might just be because we’ve been scrolling through their Instagram for the last hour, drawling over the sight of their sparkling wines. Seriously, check it out for yourself (click the pic). You know what else you should check out? The train times. The estate is just a short taxi ride from Canterbury West Station, where the hourly high-speed trains from London St Pancras stop.
Terlingham Vineyards
Skipping through the vines, having a good time, feeling like drinking some fine wine… Did we just make up an award-winning song? We doubt it and you probably do too, but you know what is award-winning? The wines at Terlingham Vineyard. A 9 minute taxi ride from Folkestone Central Station and you can be well on your way to singing our song (okay, maybe not singing our song), overlooking the gorgeous views of the Channel and tasting a selection of their wines of course!
Maidstone Distillery
Just a 7 minute walk from Maidstone East Station and you’ll arrive at Maidstone Distillery to find unforgettable experiences! Now’s the time to really show off your cocktail making skills in their Cocktails Masterclass & Canapés experience. FYI, we’re no cocktail making experts, are you? You’re probably not either, but that doesn’t matter, as long as you’re in the spirit you’ll be sure to have a good time! Or, you could always go for a Distillery Tour & Tasting or a Guided Gin Making Experience.
Southeastern
If you choose to hop on the train to your chosen destination, then Southeastern services is the train you’ll need. The train will stop off at multiple destinations in Kent where you can see some of our beautiful coastal beaches and landscape along the way. Plan your journey and find your local station today!
Stagecoach
You might find jumping on a bus and heading to your destination is more convenient. In which case, plan your journey by using Stagecoach’s bus journey planner to find the best bus routes to get you to your chosen destination.
Arriva
Traveling around North or West Kent? Arriva to the rescue! Their routes cover town centres and rural villages across Gravesend, Isle of Sheppey, Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Medway, offering comfortable and regular bus services, with great-value fares.
