MP backs plans to strengthen wine tourism at venue a stone's throw from Portsmouth
MP Jess Fuller Brown visited Ashling Park Estate to support plans that could further boost one of the South Coast’s most exciting wine tourism destinations.
Ashling Park, at West Ashling near Chichester, has become a standout visitor attraction combining vineyard tours, guided tastings and a restaurant with luxury on-site lodges designed by Will Hardie of Channel 4’s Amazing Spaces. The estate also offers a gin school and cocktail masterclasses, making it an ideal day trip or weekend break for Hampshire residents.
During her visit, the Chichester MP met with vineyard leaders to discuss how Chichester producers plan to adopt the successful “Rother Wine Triangle” model from East Sussex — a collaborative approach that uses mapped wine routes, shared branding and clear signage to make exploring local vineyards easy and accessible.
The proposed Chichester cluster would include Ashling Park alongside Tinwood, Stopham, Roebuck and Digby — all within close proximity — allowing visitors to enjoy multiple vineyards in one trip without long journeys between stops.
With over 140 vineyards now operating across Sussex, and West Sussex home to the largest area under vine in the UK, the region has quietly become one of England’s leading wine producers. Wine tourism now accounts for around 25% of vineyard income nationally and continues to grow.
Gail Gardner, Managing Director of Ashling Park, said: “Many people in Portsmouth don’t realise that a thriving wine region is right on their doorstep. We offer a complete experience — tours, tastings, dining and overnight stays — all within a short drive.”
Jess Fuller Brown MP added: “It was wonderful to visit Ashling Park and see the ambition behind plans to build a stronger vineyard cluster in the Chichester area. With such close proximity to Portsmouth, this is a fantastic opportunity for more people to explore Sussex wine and enjoy everything the region has to offer.”
The initiative aims to attract more visitors, increase overnight stays and support hospitality businesses across the wider South Coast region. For Portsmouth residents looking for a new local discovery, Sussex wine country may be closer than they think.