The UK is a country of cheese lovers, happily consuming around 700,000 tons of it every year according to the British Cheese Board. We also produce several irresistible and unique kinds of cheese that are loved all over the world. So, if you’re crazy for cheese, take your palate on the journey of a lifetime with these top cheese destinations in the UK!
Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, Somerset
Cheddar is a national favourite and is the most exported cheese by a long way. Head to Somerset to discover the origins of this hard rich cheese that really packs a punch. At Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, you can watch the cheese being made along with a video showing the whole process from start to finish. The best part, of course, is that you will get the opportunity to try all the different varieties of cheddar they produce such as Oak Smoked Cheddar, Cheddar with Onions and Tomatoes and cheddar that is matured for 30 months. While you’re here make sure you visit the nearby caves at Cheddar Gorge where the cheese used to be matured – a tradition which has been revived in recent years.
Cheese production at The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company
Wensleydale Creamery, Yorkshire
Known for its crumbly texture, Wensleydale is hugely popular and a staple at summer picnics, especially the variety with cranberries. We owe this delicious cheese to French Cistercian monks, who settled in the town of Wensleydale in Yorkshire during the 12th century. The first creamery in the area opened in 1897, so this area is steeped in cheese heritage. Today, Wensleydale Creamery is like a wonderland for cheese lovers, complete with cheese-making demonstrations and interactive games for kids. To top things off, you can try all the best varieties of Yorkshire Wensleydale paired with specially selected local produce.
Visit Wensleydale Creamery to try some of the UK’s finest Wensleydale cheeses
