The UK is a dream destination for cheese enthusiasts, with an array of artisan cheeses rooted in centuries of tradition. From the birthplace of Cheddar in Somerset to the remote dairies of Scotland, this guide answers the key questions for anyone planning a cheese-fuelled trip. We’ve grouped top locations by region, including when to visit, what to expect, and how to make the most of your journey.

Best Cheese Destinations by Region

Why Visit the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company in Somerset?

• Location: The Cliffs, Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, BS27 3QA
• Best Time to Visit: August to September
• Entrance: Free shop access; tour tickets available

As the only cheesemaker still based in the village of Cheddar, this artisan company preserves traditional cheese-making techniques. Tour the factory, see the cheese aging process, and enjoy a guided tasting of authentic Cheddar.

What Makes Melton Mowbray the Heart of Stilton Country?

• Location: Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1AE
• Best Time to Visit: September to October during the Stilton Cheese Fair
• Entrance: Free; ticketed festival events

Home to several dairies producing Blue Stilton, Melton Mowbray hosts the annual Stilton Cheese Fair, where guests can sample a wide variety of regional cheeses, meet producers, and learn about the PDO-protected cheese.

Why is Wensleydale Creamery a Must-See in Yorkshire?

• Location: Gayle Lane, Hawes, North Yorkshire, DL8 3RN
• Best Time to Visit: April to May (Food & Drink Festival)
• Entrance: Shop and café are free; museum ticket required

This scenic destination in the Yorkshire Dales offers live cheese-making demonstrations, a cheese museum, and a café with local dishes and views. Don’t miss the spring festival for local food pairings.

What’s Special About Isle of Mull Cheese in Scotland?

• Location: Sgriob-ruadh Farm, Tobermory, PA75 6QD
• Best Time to Visit: June to August
• Entrance: Free shop access; book tours in advance

This family-run dairy produces award-winning cheese using milk from pasture-raised cows. The farm’s sustainable practices and sea-salted cheddar offer a truly local taste of the Inner Hebrides.

Where Can You Try Traditional Caerphilly in Wales?

• Location: Llanddewi Brefi, Tregaron, SY25 6RP
• Best Time to Visit: Spring
• Entrance: Tours by request

Gorwydd Caerphilly is handcrafted using raw milk and has a soft, creamy rind surrounding a crumbly core. Run by the Trethowan family, this rural cheesemaker offers educational tours and generous tastings.

What Can You Experience at Quicke’s Farm in Devon?

• Location: Newton St Cyres, Exeter, EX5 5AY
• Best Time to Visit: June to August
• Entrance: Free shop; paid workshops

Famous for clothbound Cheddar matured up to two years, Quicke’s Farm allows you to watch the cheese-making process, meet the cows, shop the full cheese range, and even take part in a workshop.

Why Is The Courtyard Dairy a Top Spot for Cheese Lovers?

• Location: Settle, North Yorkshire, BD24 9JY
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round
• Entrance: Free shop access; museum and tasting tours available

Known for sourcing rare farmhouse cheeses, The Courtyard Dairy is part shop, part museum. Join a tasting tour or explore their curated collection of regional cheeses.

What Makes Lincolnshire Poacher Cheese Unique?

• Location: Ulceby Grange Farm, LN13 0HH
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Entrance: Tours by arrangement

Combining Cheddar-style depth with Alpine nuttiness, this hard cheese is made from raw cow’s milk and matured on-site. The farm offers intimate tours for those who want to see the process up close.

Why Visit Bath Soft Cheese Company in Somerset?

• Location: Park Farm, Kelston, BA1 9AQ
• Best Time to Visit: September to October
• Entrance: Free shop; tasting events ticketed

Their creamy, bloomy-rind cheeses like Bath Soft and Wyfe of Bath are beloved nationwide. Visit the organic farm for a tour, try tasting flights, and shop from a wide cheese range.

Is Neal’s Yard Dairy in London Worth the Stop?

• Location: 6 Park Street, Borough Market, London, SE1 9AB
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round
• Entrance: Free

Though not a producer, this shop sources the UK’s best artisan cheeses. Staff offer tastings and pairings, making it an ideal stop in the capital for discovering regional favourites.

When Is the Best Time for a Cheese Tour in the UK?

Spring and Summer (March–August): Best for farm tours, outdoor events, and seeing cows in pasture
Autumn (September–October): Ideal for cheese fairs and harvest season flavours
Winter: Great for cosier tasting events and stocking up for festive cheese boards

Planning Your Stay

To make the most of your cheese-focused journey, consider staying with Pass the Keys. As a leading short-let management company, we offer:

• Fully serviced holiday homes near key rural and city cheese destinations
• Flexible bookings with 24/7 guest support
• Stylish, clean properties perfect for food-lovers on tour

Whether you’re indulging in Stilton at a local festival or learning how Cheddar is made in Somerset, Pass the Keys helps you unwind in comfort after a day of culinary discovery.

FAQs

How many days should I spend on a cheese tour?

A long weekend (3–4 days) is great for 2–3 regions. For a deeper experience, 1–2 weeks allows visits across England, Wales, and Scotland.

Can I buy cheese directly at these locations?

Yes, all destinations listed have shops, and many offer exclusive varieties you won’t find in supermarkets.

Are these tours family-friendly?

Most are, especially those with farm tours. Always check age suitability when booking workshops or tastings.

Ready to taste the best of Britain? Your cheese adventure awaits—and so does your perfect stay with Pass the Keys.