A VINEYARD near Malmesbury is holding an open day to help educate people about the region’s viticulture.

Bow-in-the-Cloud at Noah’s Ark, Garsdon, will open its gates to visitors on Sunday, joining hundreds of other farms and vineyards across the country as part of Linking Environment and Farming’s (LEAF) national open day.

The free event will allow visitors to embark on self guided treks through the vineyard followed by tasting of the four wines they produce.

There will be a guided tour at 1pm.

Keith Willingale, proprietor of Bow-in-the-Cloud, said: “There is a lot to discover about the world of viticulture, which is a rapidly growing activity in the UK, so do come and join us to find out more.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming everyone and showing them around the vineyard.

“We enjoy working with, rather than in spite of, the resident wildlife.

“Deer graze the vineyard and rabbits live in the barn, badgers roam freely and even help to excavate Roman archaeology and we have some shards of pottery available for viewing.

“Some areas of the vineyard are left alone for the wildlife to enjoy.

“We have been growing three varieties of grape on three acres since 1993 and have won awards along the way.

“Currently we are selling a dry white blend that has won recognition in German competition for the last three years, and our first rosé wine that has proved very popular at Stroud Farmers Market.

“We are particularly known for our bubbly, both traditional and pink, which was used during the millennial visit of the Queen.”

Bow-in-the-Cloud’s free open day is taking place on Sunday from 11am- 4pm at Noah’s Ark, Garsdon, near Malmesbury, SN16 9NS.