From the metropolitan hustle of London to the tranquil, rolling hills of Somerset, Britain boasts a myriad of sights for the discerning traveler. But for those with an appetite for dairy, there exists a lesser-known but equally delightful culinary journey. This is the exploration of British cheese and its storied history. There is an abundance of farms, tours, and cheesemakers scattered across the country, each offering a slice of Britain’s dairy past. Let’s delve into the rich history of British cheese, exploring top destinations that offer an authentic dairy experience.
1. A Taste of Tradition in Somerset
Somerset in South West England is a destination of prime importance for any cheese enthusiast. This charming county is home to the popular Cheddar cheese, which originated in the town of Cheddar in the Mendip Hills. Here, you will find a number of cheesemakers who still adhere to the traditional methods of producing this famous British cheese.
Within the heart of Somerset, the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company is a must-visit. It is the only producer of Cheddar left in the town of Cheddar, and their cheese is made using unpasteurised milk, handcrafted in open vats. The tour of their dairy offers an in-depth insight into the cheesemaking process, from milking the cows to the final maturation of the cheese.
2. London’s Hidden Cheese History
London, the capital city of England, may be renowned for its historical landmarks and diverse culture, but it is also a hub for cheese connoisseurs. The city’s historic borough market is a treasure trove of British and international cheeses. Here, you’ll find Neal’s Yard Dairy, which has been championing British cheese since the 1980s. This renowned shop showcases the best of British cheese, with an emphasis on farmhouse cheeses sourced from across the country.
In addition to exploring the cheese stalls and shops, London also offers guided cheese tours. These tours take you on a journey through the city’s cheese history, stopping at various spots for tastings and insights into the art of cheesemaking.
3. Stilton: The King of English Cheese
To truly understand the history of British cheese, one must travel to the three counties of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Nottinghamshire. This is the only area in Britain where Stilton, often referred to as the ‘King of English Cheese’, can legally be produced.
The village of Stilton itself doesn’t produce the cheese it is named after, however, visiting the area will certainly give you a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. You can tour local dairies, such as the Colston Bassett Dairy in Nottinghamshire, where the cheese is handcrafted using traditional methods.
4. Cheshire Cheese: Britain’s Oldest Known Cheese
Cheshire cheese is believed to be the oldest known cheese in Britain, with its origins dating back to Roman times. A visit to the county of Cheshire in Northwest England will not only indulge your cheese cravings but will also enlighten you about this age-old dairy tradition.
Here, you can visit the Appleby’s Farm, one of the last remaining producers of traditional Cheshire cheese. With its milky, mild flavour and crumbly texture, Cheshire cheese is a classic example of the British cheese tradition. The farm offers tours where visitors can see the cheese being made and learn about its history.
5. Discovering the Art of Cheesemaking on the BBC Good Food Show
Finally, to further enrich your understanding of British cheese, consider attending the BBC Good Food Show. This event, held annually, features a plethora of food artisans, including some of the best cheesemakers from Britain and around the world.
At the show, you can participate in cheese tastings, watch live cooking demonstrations, and attend informative sessions about the history and process of cheesemaking. The event is not limited to a single location, it travels across different British cities, bringing cheese education and enjoyment to a wider audience.
Exploring the history of cheese making in the UK is not just a journey of gastronomic delight, but also a fascinating insight into the country’s cultural heritage and traditions. The destinations listed in this article only scratch the surface of the rich dairy history that Britain has to offer. So why not embark on this delicious journey and delve into the rich, cheesy heart of Britain? In every bite, you’ll taste the milk, the process, the patience and the history that makes British cheese so unique. Bon voyage and bon appétit!
6. The Revelation of Raw Milk at Courtyard Dairy
For those who deeply admire and appreciate the authentic taste of British cheese, the historic Courtyard Dairy in North Yorkshire offers an immersive cheese experience. This establishment, run by cheese experts Andy and Kathy Swinscoe, serves as a cheese shop, museum, and maturing room.
At the Courtyard Dairy, the focus is firmly on artisan cheese, paying tribute to the traditional and time-honoured methods of cheese production. A highlight of the visit is the opportunity to explore the range of raw milk cheeses. Raw milk, which is unpasteurised, offers a depth and complexity of flavour that is sadly lost in many commercial cheeses. The cheese produced here is hand-sourced from individual farms, championing the best farmhouse cheese in the UK.
A guided tour of the Courtyard Dairy not only allows visitors to sample these exceptional cheeses but also provides an understanding of the history and nuances of cheese making. From the impact of climate change on dairy farming to the specifics of the ageing process, the tour is a comprehensive insight into the world of cheese.
The Courtyard Dairy stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of its owners, as well as the rich cheese history and culture of Britain. Here, each cheese has its own story to tell, and every bite is a journey into Britain’s dairy past.
7. Cheese Journeys: A Gourmet Adventure with Chef Sylvain
For a more personalised and intimate exploration of the British cheese landscape, Cheese Journeys offers a unique experience. Founded by Anna Juhl, Cheese Journeys organises multi-day cheese-themed tours that take visitors beyond the typical tourist path, led by noted chef Sylvain Jamois.
These tours give cheese enthusiasts a chance to delve into the world of British cheese, exploring the process from pasture to plate. Visitors get to meet the cheesemakers, visit the farms, and understand the art and science behind the production of their favourite dairy delight.
One such journey takes you to Cadbury Court in North Cadbury, home to the Montgomery family, who are the producers of one of the last traditional, clothbound Cheddars. This visit not only allows you to taste the famous Montgomery’s Cheddar but also provides an insight into the history of Cheddar Gorge, the birthplace of this iconic British cheese.
With Cheese Journeys, you are not just tasting cheese; you are immersing yourself in the rich history, culture, and landscapes that give birth to these cheesy delights. Every tour is a testament to the depth and complexity of the British cheese heritage, making it an unforgettable experience for any cheese lover.
The British landscape of cheese making is as varied and rich as the cheeses it produces. From the Cheddar Gorge in Somerset to the bustling Borough Market in London, from the artisan cheese of the Courtyard Dairy to the immersive tours of Cheese Journeys, the opportunities for exploring the history of British cheese are endless.
The true charm of British cheese lies in its connection to the land, its people, and its history. Each cheese tells a story of tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship. It is an art form deeply rooted in the culture and heritage of the country, with each region offering its own unique flavours and techniques.
Cheese is more than just a culinary delight. It is a testament to Britain’s agricultural past, a symbol of its gastronomic prowess, and a beacon for its sustainable and artisanal future. As you explore the cheese making destinations across the UK, you will inevitably learn about Britain’s history and culture, one delicious bite at a time.
So, pack your bags and embark on this cheesy adventure. There’s a whole world of British cheeses waiting to be discovered. Happy cheese hunting!
