Nothing beats the joy of creamy, fresh ice cream on a warm English afternoon. Whether you love classic vanilla or bold flavours like basil and honeycomb, England has plenty of amazing ice cream spots that are worth the trip. I spent time researching and tasting some of the best ice cream shops across the country, and here are my top 5 picks for 2025 — each one offering something truly special.
1. Jack’s Gelato – Cambridge
Jack’s Gelato is hands down one of the most loved spots in Cambridge. This small, independent shop makes fresh gelato every day in small batches. What makes Jack’s special is its creativity — the flavours change daily, so you never know what you’ll find next.
Some of their popular flavours include pistachio, chocolate & sea salt, and even more adventurous ones like olive oil or black sesame. Every scoop is smooth, rich, and made with natural ingredients.
Why people love it: It’s local, fresh, and full of surprises. Perfect for anyone who wants to try something unique while exploring Cambridge’s historic streets.
Location: 6 Bene’t Street, Cambridge
Website: Jack’s Gelato
2. Gelato Gusto – Brighton
Located right in Brighton’s lively North Laine area, Gelato Gusto brings a touch of Italy to the English seaside. The owner trained in Bologna, so the texture and taste are spot-on authentic.
Their gelato is creamy and full of flavour, with standouts like pistachio, hazelnut, and Sicilian lemon. They also make refreshing sorbets for those who prefer dairy-free options.
Why people love it: It’s an authentic Italian experience by the beach. The flavours are rich and perfectly balanced — ideal for cooling off after a walk along Brighton Pier.
Location: 2 Gardner Street, Brighton
Website: Gelato Gusto
3. Oddono’s Gelato – London
If you’re in London, Oddono’s Gelato is a must-visit. It’s been serving authentic Italian gelato since 2004 and has won several awards for its quality and freshness.
Everything here is made from natural ingredients — no artificial colours or flavours. The pistachio and stracciatella are crowd favourites, and they even offer rotating seasonal options like lemon vodka or basil.
Why people love it: It’s reliable, creamy, and true to Italian tradition. Oddono’s is one of those rare London spots where locals and tourists agree — the gelato is excellent.
Location: Multiple locations (South Kensington, Hampstead, etc.)
Website: Oddono’s Gelato
4. Morelli’s Gelato – Broadstairs & London
Morelli’s has been serving delicious ice cream since 1907 — making it one of England’s oldest and most iconic ice cream brands. Their original parlour in Broadstairs has a retro seaside charm, while newer branches in London give it a modern twist.
Their menu includes everything from simple cones to extravagant sundaes topped with whipped cream, nuts, and wafers. The hazelnut, coffee, and caramel flavours are especially popular.
Why people love it: It’s a perfect mix of nostalgia and indulgence. Morelli’s is where you go for a proper, old-fashioned ice cream treat.
Location: Victoria Parade, Broadstairs + various locations
Website: Morelli’s Gelato
5. Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream – Devon
Although technically in Devon, Salcombe Dairy is a beloved name across England. Their ice cream is handmade using local milk and cream, and it’s 100% natural — no artificial additives.
You can taste the freshness in every bite. Popular flavours include honeycomb, mint chocolate, and Devonshire vanilla. They also make award-winning sorbets and vegan options.
Why people love it: It’s fresh, creamy, and made with love from locally sourced ingredients. Perfect if you’re looking for a taste of the English countryside.
Location: Shadycombe Road, Salcombe, Devon
Website: Salcombe Dairy
6. The Ice Cream Farm – Cheshire
If you’re looking for a fun family day out, The Ice Cream Farm in Cheshire is one of the largest ice cream parlours in the world — yes, really! They produce over 50 flavours, from traditional favourites like vanilla and chocolate fudge to quirky ones like “Jammie Dodger” and “Bubblegum Bonanza.”
Why people love it: It’s not just about ice cream. The place is designed like an attraction — with a play area, mini-golf, and even a “Daisy’s Garden” for kids. It’s a perfect spot for families.
What to try: Try their award-winning “Salted Caramel” and “Sticky Toffee Pudding” flavours — both creamy, rich, and full of local charm.
Location: Newton Lane, Tattenhall, Cheshire
Website: The Ice Cream Farm
7. Joe Delucci’s – Nationwide (London, Birmingham, Manchester)
Joe Delucci’s has become a go-to name for authentic Italian gelato across England. They have several outlets in shopping centres and tourist areas, making it super easy to find one wherever you are.
Why people love it: Their gelato is imported straight from Italy and made with no artificial colours or flavours. It’s smooth, velvety, and tastes just like the real thing in Rome or Florence.
What to try: Mango, tiramisu, and coconut are top favourites. Their sorbets are also among the best you’ll find anywhere in the UK.
Tip: If you spot their stall in a shopping mall, don’t skip it — it’s miles better than the average chain ice cream stand.
Website: Joe Delucci’s
8. Boho Gelato – Brighton & Bournemouth
Boho Gelato is another Brighton favourite, also found in Bournemouth. They’re known for pushing the limits of creativity with flavours that sound wild but taste incredible — think “Blueberry Cheesecake,” “Mascarpone Fig & Caramel,” or even “Gin & Tonic.”
Why people love it: It’s independent, experimental, and community-focused. They even collaborate with local restaurants and breweries to create limited-edition flavours.
What to try: Go for one of their rotating specials. Their “Salted Caramel Honeycomb” is one of the most-talked-about flavours in Brighton.
Tip: Visit on weekdays if you want to avoid queues — weekends in summer get packed.
Website: Boho Gelato
9. Yorvale Ice Cream – York, North Yorkshire
Based just outside York, Yorvale is a farm-based ice cream company making small-batch ice cream using milk from their own Friesian cows. You can buy it at local shops or visit their farm for a tasting.
Why people love it: It’s genuine, traditional, and made entirely on-site — from cow to cone. The taste is rich, creamy, and unmistakably fresh.
What to try: Their “Raspberry Ripple” and “Rum & Raisin” are timeless classics. If you prefer something simple, their pure vanilla is outstanding.
Tip: Check their website for events — they sometimes open up for farm tours and tasting days.
Website: Yorvale
10. Swoon Gelato – Bristol & Bath
Swoon Gelato has quickly earned a cult following for its silky-smooth texture and intense flavours. The shop in Bristol often has a line out the door, especially on sunny days.
Why people love it: Everything is made fresh every morning using premium ingredients. It’s modern, elegant, and feels like a little taste of Italy right in the West Country.
What to try: Pistachio, hazelnut, and salted caramel are their bestsellers. They also have “seasonal sorbetti” — perfect if you want something lighter.
Tip: Visit early evening for smaller crowds and the best flavour selection of the day.
11. Didsbury Cow – Manchester
Didsbury Cow is a local favourite that takes pride in using organic milk from local farms to make their small-batch ice cream. It’s a relaxed, cosy spot where you can grab a cone, sit outside, and enjoy the community vibe.
Why people love it: Friendly staff, generous portions, and honest ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons, offering classics like honeycomb crunch in summer and spiced apple crumble in autumn.
What to try: “Chocolate Fudge Swirl” or “Biscoff Crunch” — creamy, rich, and incredibly moreish.
Tip: If you’re around Didsbury during weekends, drop in early — popular flavours sell out fast!
Location: Wilmslow Road, Didsbury Village, Manchester
12. Northern Bloc – Leeds
Northern Bloc is all about modern ice cream — bold flavours, clean ingredients, and a minimalist style. They use natural, plant-based recipes that still deliver full-on flavour.
Why people love it: It’s ice cream with attitude. No artificial nonsense, just rich, intense taste. Plus, they’re one of the few brands making vegan flavours that genuinely taste like dairy ice cream.
What to try: “Peanut Chip,” “Chocolate & Sea Salt,” and “Hazelnut & Rose.” Their vegan “Salted Caramel” is also a must.
Tip: You can find their tubs in cafés across Leeds and in supermarkets — but visiting their HQ gives you the full experience.
Location: Marshall Street, Leeds
13. Brymor Ice Cream – North Yorkshire
Brymor Ice Cream is a countryside gem, made with milk from their own Guernsey cows. The texture is extra creamy, and the flavour is unbelievably fresh.
Why people love it: Family-run, peaceful countryside setting, and full transparency about their ingredients. There’s also a tearoom and picnic area, making it a lovely family day out.
What to try: “Black Cherry Whim Wham” and “Raspberry Ripple” are long-time customer favourites.
Tip: Visit during summer for the best seasonal fruit flavours made from local produce.
Location: High Jervaulx Farm, Masham, North Yorkshire
Website: Brymor Ice Cream
14. Marshfield Farm Ice Cream – Wiltshire
Marshfield Farm is an award-winning producer making ice cream directly on their family farm. They control every step of the process — from milking the cows to freezing the mix.
Why people love it: Authentic, creamy, and ethically made. They even power their production with renewable energy from the farm.
What to try: “Honey & Stem Ginger” or “Salted Caramel Swirl.” Both perfectly balance sweetness with a bit of zing.
Tip: Their ice cream is stocked in farm shops across England — ideal if you can’t visit in person.
Location: Marshfield Farm, Marshfield, Wiltshire
Website: Marshfield Farm Ice Cream
15. The Milk Shed – Oxfordshire
This is more than an ice cream shop — it’s a café and restaurant known for top-tier, homemade ice cream. The Milk Shed makes everything from scratch using local ingredients, and their flavours are simple but absolutely delicious.
Why people love it: It feels like home. Great service, rustic charm, and creamy ice cream made with care. Perfect for a weekend outing.
What to try: “Honeycomb Crunch,” “Vanilla Bean,” and “Chocolate Orange.” They’re classics done to perfection.
Tip: Pair your ice cream with their famous brownies or waffles — trust me, you won’t regret it!
Location: Weston-on-the-Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire
Final Thoughts
England’s ice cream scene is more diverse than ever — from Manchester to Wiltshire, every region has its own flavour of creativity and comfort. These 15 ice cream shops together show just how much the country has to offer, whether you prefer classic cones or daring new flavours.
If you’re planning your summer trips in 2025, make sure at least one of these parlours is on your map — because life’s too short to skip dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the best countryside ice cream experience?
Brymor or Marshfield Farm — both serve ice cream made directly on-site.
Q2: Are there vegan-friendly options?
Yes! Northern Bloc in Leeds leads the way with premium plant-based flavours.
Q3: Where can I get the most unique flavours?
The Milk Shed and Didsbury Cow often rotate seasonal specials that are hard to find anywhere else.
Q4: Which one’s best for families?
The Ice Cream Farm (Cheshire) and Brymor (North Yorkshire) — both have outdoor seating and play areas for kids.
