By Lewis Bramley

A pub chain has started a new venture in the countryside.

Elite Pubs opened the Wildshark Vineyard in Harrietsham, near Maidstone, just off the A20.

Wildshark is working to ensure the sustainability of their yard, through the replanting of native species and wildflowers they encourage pollination and biodiversity to help their plants flourish.

They have also introduced beehives into the nearby woods, which produce their own honey to be used in recipes.

As well as beehives, they have constructed owl boxes to provide a place for the birds to raise their offspring.

The vineyard grows five different types of grape, including chardonnay and pinot noir.

Wildshark is celebrating the opening by offering guided tours, followed by a BBQ meal to enjoy in the meadows.

Three different guided tours by wine experts, where you learn the processes behind the bottles, are being offered.

The cheapest one, which includes a one-hour guided tour followed by a one-hour tasting and BBQ will cost £75.

The second one also includes the tour but has an extra hamper for two to be enjoyed by the lake, costing £95 in total.

A third, which includes a tour for between eight and 14 people, has a taste session at a private lake house but will set you back £400.

Wildshark is offering gift cards for the above tours via email or post, you may also book tours via the website here.

Alternatively, you can call them at 01732 920430.