This is classed as a European introduction in spite of the history of grape cultivation which has been known in this country since at least the Norman invasion (the often quoted fact about the Romans growing grapes in Britain is probably wrong). Now the Wine industry is more significant in UK than people realise with over 400 separate vineyards predominantly in southern England. With that much under cultivation it isn't surprising that it escapes and thrives.

Vitis vinifera is found in the wild mostly in the south east of England with sites reducing as you go north and with little found in Scotland or Ireland.

Mudchute Park, London 1st july 2006

Added on 10th November 2006, modified 9th January 2007, updated 25th February 2012