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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
To make the most of your cheese-focused journey, consider staying with Pass the Keys. As a leading short-let management company, we offer:
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.
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.
Yes, all destinations listed have shops, and many offer exclusive varieties you won’t find in supermarkets.
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.