Yorkshire vineyards unite to launch regional wine trail
A group of 10 vineyards across Yorkshire has come together to launch the Yorkshire Wine Trail, a new initiative aimed at supporting wine tourism and promoting regional wine experiences.
The trail, which officially launched on 31 March, brings together producers from across the county, spanning North, West and East Yorkshire. Participating vineyards include Bay Vineyard, Carlton Towers, Goose Beck, Helme Edge, Holmfirth, Knotfield, Laurel Vines, Leventhorpe, Towthorpe and Yorkshire Heart.
A growing regional category
Yorkshire’s wine industry has expanded steadily in recent years. The region is now home to around 16 commercial vineyards producing more than 100,000 bottles annually across nine wineries.
The first vineyard, Leventhorpe, was planted in 1985, but growth has accelerated since 2015. This has been driven by improved climatic conditions, the introduction of grape varieties better suited to Yorkshire’s weather, and a more experienced winemaking community.
By 2026, several vineyards in the region have achieved multiple awards.
The Yorkshire Wine Trail stretches from the west of the county to the east coast, offering visitors the chance to explore a range of vineyard settings and styles.
Experiences on offer include vineyard tours, tastings and hospitality, with locations ranging from views across the Pennines and the Yorkshire Wolds to walled gardens and valley sites. Each vineyard operates with its own team focused on delivering visitor experiences.
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To encourage repeat visits, the initiative also introduces a Vineyard “Passport” scheme. Visitors can collect a personalised card and receive a stamp at each vineyard. Those who visit all 10 vineyards within a year will receive a reward from the Yorkshire Wine Trail.
The trail also highlights nearby attractions, restaurants and accommodation, developed in collaboration with regional tourism bodies and Welcome to Yorkshire, with the aim of providing a more complete visitor experience.
Open day and industry backing
The official open day took place on bank holiday weekend (Saturday 4 April) with visitors encouraged to attend a vineyard in their local area, meet producers and check individual opening times in advance.
Ian Sargent, WineGB regional director and WineGB Midlands & North chair, said: “This is a fantastic day for the Yorkshire Wine Industry as it shows the growth and the success of the vineyards in our region. We have a wonderful set of unique family businesses that are coming together to show case wine experiences in Yorkshire.”
According to the 2024 WineGB Tourism Report, more than 1.5 million visitors attended UK vineyards in 2023, with over 300 vineyards now open to the public. The Yorkshire Wine Trail joins similar initiatives in regions such as the East Midlands and Kent, offering a distinct regional identity.
Many of the vineyards involved are small, family-run businesses, with a focus on quality, sustainability and rural hospitality.
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