A world first wine tasting in an 18th-century courtroom
a n 1 8 t h - c e n t u r y c o u r t r o o m
A world first wine tasting in an 18th-century courtroom
The Walsingham Estate has farmed this North Norfolk land for generations, and planted the vineyard in 2019. This February, we’re opening our historic Abbey Grounds for something we believe is a world first: wine tasting in an 18th-century courtroom.
Our 18th-Century Courtroom
The Shirehall Museum at Walsingham Abbey houses a courtroom built in the 1770s. For over two centuries, this space has witnessed the administration of justice, heard testimony, and stood as a reminder of our heritage. Now, it will host intimate wine tastings during Norfolk’s spectacular snowdrop season.
We’re hosting four sessions: Friday 6th, Saturday 7th, Friday 20th, and Saturday 21st February 2026. Each limited to just 11 guests.
The Tasting Experience
You’ll sample our full range of Norfolk wines, each paired with local vegetarian cheeses. Our vineyard grows three varieties in the Stiffkey Valley: Bacchus, Solaris, and Pinot Noir. Every bottle contains only our estate grown grapes.
Our Pinot Noir earned particular recognition. The Times’ wine critic Jane MacQuitty selected it as one of her top English reds. The wine has also earned Bronze at the WineGB Awards, alongside our Bacchus Reserve.
We produce both still and sparkling wines. Our Traditional Method Sparkling Bacchus is made using the same painstaking process as Champagne. The base wine travels to Halfpenny Green in Staffordshire, where it undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle. We produce two styles: Brut and Demi-Sec.
The Snowdrop Walk
After the tasting, take a glass of our sparkling Bacchus and step into the Abbey grounds. February brings thousands of snowdrops carpeting the woodland walks. The white blooms transform the medieval ruins, creating a landscape unlike any other time of year.
The Abbey itself dates back centuries. Walsingham was one of England’s most significant pilgrimage sites before the Dissolution. The ruins remain, surrounded by mature trees and seasonal plantings that change through the year. In February, the snowdrops take centre stage.
You’ll have access to the grounds until 4pm. Wander at your own pace.
Why This Matters
Opening our Abbey Grounds for wine experiences allows us to share both our wines and our heritage. The courtroom setting adds historical depth to the tasting. The snowdrop walk grounds the experience in place and season.
We’ve kept numbers small deliberately. Eleven guests per session means intimate conversation, space to appreciate the setting, and time to explore the grounds without crowds.
Practical Details
Sessions run from 1:45pm arrival to 4pm when the Abbey grounds close. The event takes place at Shirehall Museum, Walsingham Abbey, Common Place, Little Walsingham, NR22 6BP. Tickets are £35 per person. This includes tasting of our full wine range, local cheeses, a glass of sparkling wine for the walk, and access to the Abbey grounds during peak snowdrop season.
The event is adults only. Assistance dogs are welcome in the courtroom.
Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes. February in Norfolk requires preparation for both rain and sunshine. Wellies are always good to wear.
Park at Mill Car Park, approximately two minutes walk from the entrance. Book your place with Eventbrite our ticketing partner.
A World First Wine Tasting
We’ve searched. We’ve asked. We believe this is the first wine tasting held in an 18th century courtroom anywhere in the world.
Join us this February. Taste Norfolk wines in a Norfolk courtroom. Walk among snowdrops on land we’ve tended for generations. Book your place with Eventbrite our ticketing partner.