Harvest 2023

Get involved in your local vineyard by volunteering to help with the 2023 grape harvest! Each year we welcome small groups of volunteers to Albury Vineyard in the beautiful Surrey Hills to help pick grapes with us and learn more about English wine.

Priority is given to wine club members, but we sometimes need extra people! Dates will be confirmed nearer the time but may include the following: 19th/20th, 29th September (places now available), 3rd (places now available), 8th (full), 10th, 12th, 15th (full), 18th/20th October.

Volunteers need to be available to arrive from 8.30am in time for a briefing at 9am. 

FAQs

Q: Do I have to get there by 9am?

A: Yes, it's very important that you hear the health and safety briefing at this time. You can arrive any time from 8.30am.

Q: Where do I park?

A: Please park in the Silent Pool car park immediate off the A25. Please do not park in the vineyard car park and this space will be needed for lorries and tractors.

Q: How long will the grape picking take?

A: This depends! We are likely to be finished by lunchtime.

Q: What happens if I've signed up but can no longer attend?

A: Please email lucy@alburyvineyard.com and let us know ASAP so we can offer your place to another volunteer. 

Q: Do I need to bring my ticket?

A: No, your name will be on a guest list when you arrive.

Q: Does it matter if I haven't done this before?

A: No, we will give you a full briefing.

Q: Is this experience suitable for everyone?

A: We do not recommend that you take part in the grape harvest if you have any back issues as some bending is involved.

Q: Can I bring my dog?

A: Sorry, we love dogs but we can't allow them at the vineyard on harvest days for health and safety reasons.

Q: Can children come?

A: Our harvest experience days are not suitable for children under 16 years of age.

Q: What should I wear and bring?

A: Layers are recommended as the morning can be chilly but you will warm up throughout the day. Wellies or boots are best as the ground can be damp and muddy but remember that wellies don't keep your feet very warm - wear thick socks too. Bring gloves if you have them, alternatively we have some disposable gloves available. No need to bring secateurs as we will provide snippers.

Q: Do I need to bring food and drink?

A: We will provide tea, coffee and and a light lunch (please let us know any dietary requirements well in advance). Please bring your own water bottle and snacks if you wish.

Q: What happens if it rains?

A: The harvest will go ahead in light rain however if heavy rain is forecast then we may re-arrange the day. In this case we will notify you by email the day before.

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