Restaurant closed until further notice

After much soul-searching, it is with great sadness that we have taken the difficult decision to close The Vines restaurant until further notice. This closure will not affect weddings or private events, which will continue to cater for.

We have felt extremely privileged to be able to provide the residents of Rochester and beyond, with a high dining experience unlike anything else in the area. 

However, to cater for this, a large and highly-experienced team is needed behind the scenes.

Since COVID restrictions were officially lifted, we have done our utmost to provide an alternative wedding space at The Vines for couples who have had their special days postponed at our sister venue, Cooling Castle Barn, or other wedding venues across the South East. 

Unfortunately, a shortage of chefs and hospitality staff across the industry as a whole, has meant we are unable to continue to offer the high level of service that we pride ourselves on, across each of our venues, simultaneously.

Not only do we think it unfair to put any undue pressure on our excellent, current team, despite an intense recruitment drive, we have been unable to find the right appointments to fill many critical roles.

For this reason, we have decided to close The Vines restaurant until we feel we have the full quota of staff needed to run each venue to the standards we uphold. 

This will allow us to continue to put on our weddings and other events without disruption and can ensure every couple gets the special day they have waited so long for and thoroughly deserve.

We apologise again to any diners who have had future bookings cancelled and hope to see them again in the future.

Thank-you again for your patience, support and understanding at this difficult time for us – and many businesses in the hospitality sector.

We will endeavour to keep you updated during the months ahead and as circumstances allow.