Warden Abbey Vineyard

Nestled between the picturesque villages of Old Warden and Cardington, vines were first planted on this beautiful Bedfordshire field in medieval times by monks at the Cistercian Abbey of Warden. Replanted in 1986, the four acre vineyard is now run by Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity as a community project and social enterprise.

The vineyard relies totally on its volunteers, who are involved in all aspects of its running, care, and wider development. The project works with other local charities and schools to provide a unique setting for learning and skills projects, including help for people into employment or voluntary work, social and therapeutic horticulture, wildlife and heritage projects.

Its wines have won awards at national and international level, and have even been served at royal occasions.