The Ultimate Wine Lover’s Weekend Is Coming Soon

There’s a certain kind of thrill in walking into a room where the air hums with the anticipation of discovery, and this is precisely what awaits at the London Wine Festival this October. Since its debut in 1980, the Laithwaites Wine Festival has been introducing Londoners to new varietals from across the globe. Fun fact: it’s where Ernie Hunter first brought New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to the UK, a single bottle that put Marlborough firmly on the map.

In Partnership With Laithwaites

This autumn, it’s back, bringing 350 exceptional wines to RHS Lawrence Hall in Westminster from Friday 31 October to Sunday 2 November, and you’re invited to taste your way through them all, with all tastings included in your ticket price.

What to expect

Start your day with a welcome glass in hand before wandering to the 85 stands across the hall. Over 100 producers from 17 countries will be pouring, from the classic vineyards of France, Spain, and Italy to family-owned estates in Argentina, Chile, South Africa, and New Zealand. There’s also a spotlight on the unexpected think wineries in Greece, Lebanon, and, closer to home, the UK’s English fizz scene (trust us, exciting things are bubbling here).

Don’t worry about overindulging, spittoons are provided, and a wealth of artisanal food stands are on hand to keep you well-fuelled. Pairings suggestions? Naturally, because a wine festival without a little guidance is like Champagne without bubbles.

Buy one ticket, get one free with code

Click code to copy

BOGOF

www.laithwaites.co.uk

book now

I can’t wait to get lost among the stands, sip my way through France, Spain, and a few unexpected corners of the world, and pretend I’m a wine critic for a day.’

Over and above the tastings, there are private masterclasses, including sessions led by TV’s Oz Clarke OBE, and if you’re feeling particularly daring, don’t miss the festival’s silent disco tasting experience. Yes, you read that right: music, wine, and dancing all in one fabulous mash-up.

Want to make your weekend extra special? Upgrade to the Fine Wine Room for exclusive access to some of the world’s most iconic wines, Bordeaux, Burgundy, and beyond, in a beautifully curated space for sipping and savouring in style.

Whether it’s with friends, colleagues, or my partner, this festival is the perfect excuse to gather, laugh, taste, and dance at the silent disco. Honestly, I can’t think of a better way to spend a weekend.

book now

Our team’s wine verdict

Ahead of Laithwaites’ Wine Festival, The Handbook team was lucky enough to sample a sneak peek of a handful of the best bottles on offer. Here’s what we thought…

On the Wyfold Vineyard English Sparkling Brut:

It’s amazing. Great flavour, it’s a sparkling white wine but tastes better than any champagne, it’s very drinkable
Elly, Founder & CEO

On the Redheads 1888 Barossa Valley Shiraz:

This shiraz is delicious – I’m shocked it’s from Australia, I wasn’t expecting that. It’s only £28 but it tastes more expensive.
Caitlin, Senior Campaign Success Manager

The ticket offer

And the cherry on top? Buy one ticket, get one free with code BOGOF. Simply select one ticket, enter BOGOF at checkout, and your second ticket is free. Friday tickets start at £50 and Sunday tickets are £45. The offer is valid until 2nd November, and tickets are selling fast.

The festival isn’t just about wine; it’s about creating moments. Picture a weekend where conversation flows as freely as the wine, where each tasting is an opportunity to connect with makers and fellow enthusiasts, and where even the briefest encounter with a rare bottle feels like a revelation.

The Laithwaites Wine Festival. 31 October – 2 November 2025, RHS Lawrence Hall, Westminster. Tickets on sale now – secure yours before they vanish. Santé!