The Cotswolds, a region of rolling hills and quaint villages in south-central England, is home to a wealth of high-quality local produce, including some of the country’s finest cheeses. Cheese, a cornerstone of British gastronomy, has been crafted here for centuries. From creamy Brie to sharp Cheddar, the Cotswold cheese-makers are dedicated to creating cheeses with unique and exciting flavours.
Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or an aficionado seeking out the best dairy delights, we have shared the secrets to help you find the most exceptional cheesemakers in the Cotswolds. Reading this post will provide you with in-depth details of each farm, shop, and cheese variety, based on reviews and personal visits.
1. The Organic Cheese Farm: Cotswold Organic Dairy
Founded on the principles of sustainability and respect for nature, the Cotswold Organic Dairy is a haven for cheese lovers who value ethical farming practices. This farm, located just outside Gloucester, produces a range of organic cheeses from the milk of their grass-fed cows.
Their organic production process ensures that the cheeses have a fresh, pure taste that is reflective of the local terroir. You can visit their farm shop to buy these cheeses directly and get a first-hand view of their operations. The farm regularly shares details about their cheese-making process on their website, offering an insight into the art of organic cheese-making.
2. The Specialist Cheese Shop: The Cotswold Cheese Company
With three shops spread across the Cotswolds in Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Moreton-in-Marsh, The Cotswold Cheese Company offers a wide range of local, British, and international cheeses. Their shops are a gourmet haven, boasting over 80 varieties of artisan cheeses, including those made locally in the Cotswolds.
They source their dairy produce directly from local farms, thereby supporting the local economy and ensuring the freshest, most flavourful cheeses. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff can guide you to choose the cheese that suits your palate. Their stores also have excellent reviews on various platforms, cementing them as one of the best cheese shops in the region.
3. The Artisan Cheese Maker: The Cotswold Dairy
For a taste of handmade artisanal cheese, head to the Cotswold Dairy. Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, this dairy is heralded for its traditional cheese-making techniques. They use fresh milk directly from their own herd of cows to craft a variety of cheeses including a robust blue cheese, a tangy cheddar, and a delicate brie.
You can also visit their quaint farm shop nestled in the picturesque Cotswold countryside. Here, you can find their entire range of cheeses, along with other local products. The shop is also renowned for its friendly service and the chance to see the cheese-making process in action.
4. The Traditional Gloucester Cheese Farm: Smart’s Gloucester Cheese
When thinking about cheese in Gloucester, one cannot overlook Smart’s Gloucester Cheese. With a history spanning over five generations, this farm has been producing Single and Double Gloucester cheese for more than a century.
They maintain the tradition of using unpasteurised milk from their own herd of Old Gloucester cows, resulting in a cheese with a distinctively smooth and nutty flavour. The cheese is also known for its P.D.O. (Protected Designation of Origin) status, which signifies that it’s made using traditional methods and ingredients, and only in its specific area of origin.
5. The Cheese Market: Stroud Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday, Stroud Farmers’ Market hosts a plethora of local cheese stalls showcasing the best the Cotswolds has to offer. From goat’s cheese to sheep cheese, hard to soft, mild to strong, the variety is astonishing.
Frequented by locals and tourists alike, this market is not only a great place to sample a wide array of cheeses but also to meet the passionate cheese-makers behind them. The direct interaction with the cheese-makers gives you a chance to learn more about the cheeses, their production process, and even some serving suggestions.
The magic of Cotswold cheese lies in its quality, authenticity, and the passion of its creators. These farms, shops, and markets offer the best of the region’s cheese, each with its unique style and flavour profile. If you are a cheese enthusiast, make it a point to visit these places and immerse yourself in the delightful world of Cotswold cheese.
6. The Instagrammable Farm: Jolly Nice Farm Shop
Jolly Nice, located between Cirencester and Stroud, is more than just a farm shop. It’s a popular destination where people can enjoy the best of Cotswold cheese while also immersing themselves in a delightful farm setting. The shop is nestled within an old renovated cattle shed and is renowned for its impressive cheese counter, filled with an array of local and international cheeses.
Their Instagram post often showcases their impressive cheese selection, including their own farm-made traditional cheeses and those sourced from other farms across the Cotswolds. This gives you a sneak peek into what you can expect during your visit. The farm shop also prides itself on promoting sustainable farming and offering fresh, high-quality produce.
Jolly Nice is also famous for its atmosphere and picturesque setting. The surrounding farmland and the shop’s rustic charm make it a perfect spot for a post Instagram cheese tasting session. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff add to the overall experience, making it a must-visit for any cheese lover.
7. The Renowned Cheese Retailer: Paxton & Whitfield
Paxton & Whitfield, Britain’s oldest cheesemonger, has a store in the quaint town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Established over two centuries ago, it continues to be a go-to spot for cheese enthusiasts. With a vast array of cheeses, including Cotswold varieties, it is a perfect place to explore an assortment of British and international cheeses.
Their wide range includes single and double Gloucester cheese, along with organic cheese from various Cotswold farms. In addition to their quality cheese, the shop is renowned for its high-quality condiments that perfectly complement their cheese range. You can also find a hand-picked selection of kitchenware items, ideal for any cheese enthusiast.
Their experts are always on hand to guide you through their selection, ensuring you find the cheese that suits your palate. Paxton & Whitfield is indeed a must-visit shop for anyone who appreciates quality cheese.
The Cotswolds is a treasure trove of cheese, with a myriad of options ranging from traditional Gloucester cheese to organic farm-made delights. The local cheese makers’ dedication to quality and authenticity sets Cotswold cheese apart, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Whether it’s visiting the quintessential Cotswold dairy for a taste of artisan cheese, exploring the cheese counter at Jolly Nice farm shop, or sampling the wide variety at Paxton & Whitfield, there’s something for every cheese enthusiast in the Cotswolds.
This post shared detailed insights into some of the best places to find Cotswold cheese, but the region has much more to offer. So why wait? Plan a cheese-tasting tour of the Cotswolds and immerse yourself in the flavorful world of local cheese.
