Calling all golf and wine aficionados—it's time to tee off at the Mannings Heath Golf & Wine Estate in the beautiful English countryside. Located in Horsham, West Sussex, this captivating estate is not just about elite golfing; it's a perfect blend of sport, culture, and the art of winemaking. If you’re someone who appreciates rolling greens and the rich aroma of regional wines, Mannings Heath is your paradise.
Picture this: a sunny afternoon with sweeping views of undulating golf courses, where you can spot seasoned professionals as well as enthusiastic amateurs perfecting their swings. This is what Mannings Heath is all about—an idyllic kingdom for those with a penchant for golf and an appreciation for a good vintage. It's not just a place; it's an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. This isn't one of those minimalist, soulless courses that are popping up to appease hyper-environmentalists. This estate respects tradition.
The history of Mannings Heath harks back to 1905 when it was first established as a golf club. Over time, it has evolved into an estate that not only celebrates the heritage of the sport but also the rich history of English winemaking. Its lush vineyards produce some of the finest wines in the country, embracing the resurgence of England as a new frontier in the wine industry. Liberals might love to snub English wines due to their obsession with foreign products, but they are missing out on a fine example of home-grown excellence.
At Mannings Heath, golfers can enjoy a stunning 18-hole Waterfall Course designed to challenge and delight in equal measure. The natural contours of the land add layers of complexity to every shot, making it a true test for golfing prowess. If you're thinking about getting into the sport or enhancing your skills, the estate offers excellent coaching sessions from professionals who know their way around the green.
But that's not all! The estate is also home to some picturesque walking trails that are perfect if you're accompanied by family members who somehow haven’t yet caught the golfing bug. These trails offer a marvelous opportunity to explore the English countryside, filled with native flora and fauna. What could be a more pleasant family outing than combining golf, nature trails, and a wine tasting?
Speaking of wine, the estate’s vineyards are crucial to their exceptional offering of wines. The wines aren't crafted for the kind of faux sophistication that comes with some overseas labels. Instead, they're as genuine as the English sun, which gracefully ripens their grapes. Whether you prefer a white, red, or something in between, tasting their products will leave you craving for more—and you don't have to hop on a plane to France to find something exquisite.
When it comes to dining, the Cellar Door restaurant at the estate is a must-visit. Serving up dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, the menu is as rooted in traditional British fare as it is innovative. Here, you can enjoy a meal that complements the estate’s fine selection of wines. Imagine savoring a rich, hearty dish as you sip on a glass of English wine, overlooking miles of lush greenery.
As for accommodations, the estate doesn't disappoint. It provides cozy lodgings with modern amenities that ensure comfort without sacrificing the traditional charm of the English landscape. Stay for a long weekend to fully immerse yourself in all that the estate offers.
Mannings Heath Golf & Wine Estate also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including wine tours, tastings, and golf tournaments that attract enthusiasts from all walks of life. If you're looking to learn more about English wine production, a guided tour through the vineyards where you can see the winemaking process up close is a must. Each event is a reminder that here, community and culture take the main stage.
In short, Mannings Heath Golf & Wine Estate is a cornucopia of experiences waiting to be explored. It's a place where you can escape the grind, unwind in elegance, and appreciate the finer things in life—without having to cross the Channel. A day, a weekend, or even a week in this corner of paradise is time well spent, and you'll leave with memories as rich and as vibrant as the estate's finest wines. The only regret you'll have is not discovering it sooner.