I knew Krzysztof from the Waterside Inn on the Canel, Union Wharf market harborough where he was always super friendly and the service consistenty good so when I heard on the grape wine he had opened a new place with his partner Charlotte I immediately planned to go and say hello and support their new venture.
So where is the Wine Shed exactly. Well if you know where Ginger Kate, the consignment shop is it's down the alley right next door, before you get to the Garage Bakehouse or go around the corner to Bebooted and Bagel and Griff. I think there used to be a hairdressers down there, another location for Browns.
So when we visited it was clear The Wine Shed has rapidly become a cherished local establishment, offering a unique combination of a wine bar and specialty shop. It was pretty busy for a Tuesday lunchtime. Spearheaded by local hospitality experts and partners Krzysztof and Charlotte, this venue serves as a perfect blend of a retail and social space, designed to cater to both connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts alike.
When we popped in a few tables were taken outside which considering it was quite chilly the wine list is attracting the customers.The Wine Shed operates on two levels, each dedicated to enriching your wine experience. The ground floor houses an inviting wine bar, with tables set up in the web of cosy rooms that weave away from the main area, while the upstairs area is transformed into a sophisticated wine shop. Here’s what you can expect from each space:
Downstairs Wine Bar: As we stepped inside, we were greeted with the warm, welcoming atmosphere we'd come to expect from Krzysztof. It's here that patrons can grab a table and a bottle of your favourite tipple at lunchtime or unwind after a long day, there were a few groups of ladies enjoying a meet up with friends and a bottle of proscecco mid week but I could easily see it being the perfect place for a first date. The bar offers a wide array of wines, the list is pretty extensive sourced both locally and internationally. The host is knowledgable and happy to share his wisdom and passion. The selection changes seasonally, ensuring there's always something new to taste. Small plates and tapas-style dishes are available to complement your drink, featuring local ingredients that highlight the region's flavours. That said don't expect a lunch or dinner menu. It's a cheese board, a charcuterie board, olives that kind of thing. very well done to compliment the wines on offer but if you're starving I'd suggest eating elsewhere first or coming here early before dinner.
I can see the Upstairs Wine Shop being buzzing, especially as it gets closer to Christmas: For those looking to take a piece of The Wine Shed home, the upstairs wine shop offers a modern architectural space for the enthusiast, connoiseur or someone who just enjoys a weekend bottle of plonk. Whether you're a newbie seeking guidance or a seasoned enthusiast looking to add to your collection, Krzysztof and Charlotte are on hand to provide expert advice. The shop also features wine accessories and gifts, making it a great spot to find a present for any occasion.
Opening Hours and Accessibility
The Wine Shed is open from Tuesday to Sunday, welcoming guests from 11 AM to 11 PM. The venue remains closed on Mondays, giving the team a well-deserved rest.
And The Wine Shed is not just about wine sales, it's a vibrant community hub, like I said we went on a Tuesday lunchtime and the place was quite busy, a great vibe. Krzysztof and Charlotte are passionate about creating interactive experiences and regularly host events that encourage social interaction and wine education including
Monthly wine tastings, these sessions are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about various wines, with guided tastings led by experts. Each session focuses on different themes, from regional focuses to explorations of specific grape varieties. You do have to pay but they are very reasonable and great fun judging by the videos posted online.
Live Music Nights Every Friday, The Wine Shed comes alive with the sounds of local musicians. These evenings provide a lively backdrop to your wine experience and support talented local artists.
Specialty Events Keep an eye out for seasonal events and special gatherings, such as wine pairing dinners, meet-the-maker nights, holiday-themed festivities and singles dating nights which sound like an absolute hoot.
By combining a high-quality wine offering with a strong community focus, Krzysztof and Charlotte have brought charm and variety to the local area hospitality offering and added a little style of the 1980's wine bar reinvented. . It's not just a place to buy or drink wine; it's a venue where locals can gather, share experiences, and create memories. A bit more stylishly than a night down the pub (which we alos enjoy) The commitment of Krzysztof and Charlotte to supporting local products and talents only strengthens the bond between the business and the community, making The Wine Shed a pivotal part of the local hospitality scene.
I would recommend popping this new venue on your radar whether you're looking to explore exciting wines, enjoy a night out with live music, or simply chat with fellow wine lovers, The Wine Shed promises a welcoming and enriching experience for all.
We loved it, done a wonderful job with the interior and we will be back soon for sure.