A vineyard in Worcestershire has officially opened bookings for its new shepherd hut retreats. 

Astley Vineyard, which is owned and managed by the Haywood family, is located just ten miles north of Worcester and was established in 1971. 

The two shepherd huts have been built to order and carefully fitted out by the family to offer a luxury escape and to allow visitors to unwind on a "secluded and restful" retreat. 

There is a small kitchen and fitted bathroom with the project taking around eighteen months to get from planning to completion. 

Tim Haywood, the owner of Astley Vineyard, said: "Our plan is to attract visitors from further afield to visit the vineyard and to enjoy the unique tranquillity here amongst some of the UK's oldest vines in beautiful Worcestershire. 

"Guests will have the opportunity to escape the hustle of daily life and taste some lovely wines whilst relaxing in our luxury huts."

The business said wine tourism is growing rapidly with 1.5 million visits to vineyards in the UK in 2023. 

Mr Haywood said: "Support for businesses like our own is vital from central and local government to achieve long-term sustainable growth. 

"Viticulture is the UK's fastest growing agricultural sector."

The building of Astley Vineyard's shepherd huts was supported with a grant from the UK government's Levelling Up Fund administered through Malvern Hills District Council. 

Astley Vineyard, which is located on Hampstall Lane, was recently named Winner of Winners at Visit Worcestershire's tourism awards for its vineyard tours and its outstanding commitment to ethical and sustainable business. 

It has also won numerous national and international awards for its wine over the last few months. 

The business was bought by the Haywood family in 2017 who have been working to modernise the vineyard.

It has a visitor centre with a shop and an area for tasting and tours while the family has moved wine production in-house.

Bookings for two-night weekend stays in the shepherd huts are now open. 

To book visit the Astley Vineyard website at https://astleyvineyard.co.uk/stay/