This is a sponsored article on behalf of Laithwaites.
Know about the festival that’s been shaping London’s wine scene for well over four decades?
Since its debut edition back in 1980, the Laithwaites Wine Festival has introduced generations of Londoners to new varietals from around the globe (fun fact: it’s where Ernie Hunter introduced New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to the UK for the first time, with that single bottle putting Marlborough firmly on the map).
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 sample as many of them as you like — with all tastings included in your ticket price.
Start your day with fizz in your glass — your festival ticket includes a welcome drink —before hitting up the stands the legendary winemakers behind your favourite bottles and discover new ones.
In total, you’ll find over 100 producers from 17 countries at the Laithwaites Wine Festival. Renowned winemaking regions like France, Spain, and Italy are well-represented, and there’s a fantastic selection of New World wines from family-owned estates in Argentina, Chile, South Africa, and New Zealand to choose from. The festival also shines a spotlight on places you might not expect, showcasing emerging wineries in the likes of Greece, Lebanon and — closer to home — the UK (any oenophile worth their salt will tell you that exciting things are happening in the world of English fizz).
Across 85 stands, you’ll uncover under-the-radar vineyards and (figuratively) raid highly-coveted cellars. Tastings are available at each one — remember, these are included in your ticket price — and if you like what you sample you can pick up a bottle or two to take home.
There’s no need to worry about overimbibing — spitoons are available and there’s plenty of artisanal food available to purchase, to help you line your stomach. Speaking of which, you’ll find a ton of pairing recommendations, to help you really elevate your sipping experience.
At the time of writing, the full event programme is yet to be released, but the Laithwaites Wine Festival — London’s largest private consumer wine festival — can always be relied on to put on a sensational show.
On top of all those tastings, you’ve got private masterclasses to look forward to, including some led by TV’s Oz Clarke OBE. And if you really fancy letting loose, be sure to swing by the festival’s silent disco tasting experience… now there’s a mash up we didn’t know we needed!
Tickets to the Laithwaites Wine Festival are on sale now, and selling fast. Grab yours from £45 today — with so many incredible wines to try, a tasting guide to help you make the most of your visit, and a welcome drink included, that’s incredible value in our humble opinion.
If you’re after an extra special experience, we recommend the Fine Wine Room upgrade. This little beauty gets you access to an exclusive space where you can sip and savour iconic wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy and beyond. Santé!
The Laithwaites Wine Festival. 31 October-2 November 2025 at RHS Lawrence Hall (Westminster). Tickets on sale now.