Now called Richard Phillips at Chapel Down, this wine bar and restaurant is the serious drinker's worst nightmare - a great venue, serving delicious wine, that's completely inaccessible by public transport!
I've only ever been to the bar, but with its cask lined walls and comfy armchairs it makes for a really cosy place to relax and explore the vineyard's excellent selection of wines. Moreover, if you visit on a sunny day you also have the option of sitting outside on their adjoining terrace, which has stunning views of the Kentish countryside. It may not be the cheapest place for a drink, but I've found Chapel Down's wine to be consistently good and it's definitely well worth a visit.
Of course, if you can't find a nice, sober person to drive you there and back and you don't feel like hiking, there is a shop downstairs which sells all of their wines to take away. It also does tastings and sells a range of deli products which are perfect for a snack or a spur-of-the-moment picnic in the countryside. read more