Hull Trains is raising a toast to Yorkshire producers through a new partnership with Little Wold Vineyard, marking the arrival of locally made wine on board its services. The open-access operator unveiled the collaboration with a special tasting event at the South Cave vineyard, just a short hop from Brough station, inviting VIP guests and partners to sample the wines that will soon feature in its onboard offer.

Little Wold Vineyard, founded in 2012 and still run by the same family, has grown to become one of Yorkshire’s standout English wine producers. With more than 20,000 vines and seven wines in its portfolio, the vineyard has built a reputation for quality and character. Among its creations is the award-winning Three Cocked Hat, named after the shape of a long-lost field uncovered on an 1800s map.

Passengers will soon be able to enjoy the vineyard’s wines in recyclable cans, chosen to maintain freshness while offering convenience and supporting Hull Trains’ sustainability commitments, including the ability to operate on electric power where available. The partnership reflects the operator’s aim to showcase Yorkshire producers and champion lower-carbon choices.

Jenna Chinery, Onboard Experience Manager at Hull Trains, said: “It was a pleasure to visit the vineyard to sample the exciting new wine we’re going to be serving onboard. I’m happy to be working with such a wonderful local business and these products are a true reflection of Yorkshire’s vibrant spirit and rich heritage. We are committed to showcasing the best our region has to offer.”

Richard Salkeld, Head of Communications and Partnerships at Hull Trains, added: “It has been a privilege to welcome our customers for an exclusive experience, not only to enjoy a day out, but to gain deeper insight into the incredible work of a local family run businesses. Supporting and celebrating our region is at the heart of everything we do.”

Representing Little Wold Vineyard, Business Manager and Head Winemaker Alice Maltby said: “Partnering with Hull Trains is a fantastic opportunity to share the story and flavour of Yorkshire with customers across the country. At Little Wold, we take pride in crafting wines that reflect the character of our region, and this collaboration allows us to bring that experience to people on the move. Sustainability and quality are at the heart of everything we do and we’re thrilled that our wines are going to be enjoyed nationally.”

Guest attendee Gaynor Harkin praised the initiative, saying: “The wine tasting experience, organised by Hull Trains, has been absolutely wonderful. We were thrilled to be part of it. It’s inspiring to visit a place like Little Wold Vineyard, a beautiful, family-run business that’s right on our doorstep. We learned so much and felt truly welcomed. Hull Trains is a real asset to the region and their support for local businesses is outstanding. Honestly, I can’t think of another company that does as much for the community.”

David Hooper, External Affairs Director for the Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce, added: “It is great to see Hull Trains continuing their tradition of supporting businesses in the region by sourcing goods from local producers for their on-board menus. Local partnerships like these are fabulous adverts for the diverse range of local firms in our part of the world and showing them off to potential customers up and down the country on the routes Hull Trains serves. It will be a real treat for rail travellers to sample some fine wines grown right here on our very own Wolds, so cheers to that!”

Little Wold joins a line-up of Yorkshire suppliers already featured on board Hull Trains, including Locomotion Atom Beer from Hull and Lister’s Crisps from a family farm in Howden. These products are served through the operator’s at-seat trolley service, available to all customers.

As Hull Trains continues to expand its service offering, the operator says passengers can expect even more regional flavours as part of its mission to bring a taste of Yorkshire all the way to London.

Image: First Hull Trains