A Cheese Lover’s Journey: Exploring Britain’s Iconic Cheeses

Ah, Britain. The land of tea, castles, and unpredictable weather. But let’s not forget one highly crucial aspect of this wonderful nation: its magnificent cheeses. If you’re anything like me, the thought of experiencing a full-fledged cheese tour across the UK will fill your heart with glee and your stomach with anticipatory grumbles. Buckle up your cheddar belts, dear reader, for we are about to embark on a delightful journey through Britain’s iconic cheeses.

Introduction

Britain may be renowned for its historical landmarks and cultural heritage, but the realm of British cheese is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Britain boasts over 700 varieties of cheese—a figure that rivals even that of France. From creamy Stilton to crumbly Caerphilly, British cheese offers a diverse palette sure to satisfy any connoisseur’s cravings.

So why not travel around, meet some cheese makers, explore scenic landscapes, and—most importantly—sample some exquisite cheeses? Here, I’ll take you through some of Britain’s must-visit cheese spots.

The Legendary Cheddar Gorge

Your cheese adventure must kick off in Cheddar, Somerset, the birthplace of the world-famous Cheddar cheese. The very name "Cheddar" is synonymous with cheese.

• Cheddar Gorge: Not only is it an awe-inspiring natural wonder, but it’s also home to the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company. Here, you can witness the traditional cheese-making process that dates back to the 12th century. Fancy a tour? Find out more here.

• Fun Fact: According to the British Cheese Board, the average Brit consumes around 30lbs of cheese annually, and Cheddar undoubtedly commands a substantial chunk of that consumption.

Recommendations:

• Don’t leave without tasting the cave-aged Cheddar which is matured in the very caves of the gorge.
• Pair it with a locally brewed cider for a traditional experience.

Stilton: The King of English Cheeses

Heading up north, we venture into the counties of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire— the only places legally allowed to produce Stilton cheese. This blue-veined delight is often crowned as the ‘King of English Cheeses.’

• The Stilton Cheese Inn: Located in the village of Stilton in Cambridgeshire, although historically significant, Stilton production has moved out of this village. However, you can still immerse yourself in the Stilton legacy here.

• Statistics: Stilton cheese production employs over 2,500 people and generates around £50 million in sales annually.

Recommendations:

• Serve Stilton the traditional way with a slice of pear and some Port wine.
• Try white Stilton too! It’s milder but equally delightful.

The Unique Blue: Shropshire Blue

Just when you thought blue cheeses couldn’t get any better, Shropshire Blue comes along. Distinctive with its rich orange hue, this cheese is produced in Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire but was introduced by a Scot in the 70s.

• Hawkshead Relish Company: Visit their shop in the Lake District for some delightful chutneys to pair with Shropshire Blue. Learn more here.

Recommendations:

• Add a drizzle of honey and some walnut pieces for an exceptional taste sensation.
• Perfect for melting into a sauce for gnocchi or as a salad crumble.

Tradition Meets Modernity: Cornish Yarg

Cornish Yarg is a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese that’s wrapped in nettle leaves. Yes, you read that right—nettle leaves.

• Cornwall’s Lynher Dairies: Located near Truro, this dairy offers an insight into how Cornish Yarg is made. Read more here.

Recommendations:

• Cornish Yarg’s delicate flavour makes it perfect for a posh ploughman’s lunch.
• Try the wild garlic variant if you’re adventurous!

The Softer Side: Tunworth and Baron Bigod

For the lovers of soft, creamy cheeses, it would be a sin to overlook Tunworth and Baron Bigod.

• Tunworth: This Hampshire-based gem has won ‘British Cheese Awards Supreme Champion’ twice. It’s often compared to Camembert. Get more details from their site.

• Baron Bigod: This Suffolk cheese is named after a local 12th-century baron and is renowned for its similarity to French Brie. Read more here.

Recommendations:

• Bake Tunworth in the oven for a delightful oozy treat.
• Pair Baron Bigod with a fresh baguette and perhaps a glass of English sparkling wine.

Cheesy Events and Festivals

What’s cheese without a proper festival? Britain hosts several cheese festivals that can elevate your love for the dairy delight.

• The Great British Cheese Festival: This itinerant festival is a haven for cheese lovers, offering tastings, workshops, and… cheese rolling contests! Find the latest information here.

Recommendations:

• Don a cheese-themed outfit to fit in with the enthusiastic crowd.
• Attend workshops to learn cheese pairing and DIY cheese-making tricks!

Conclusion

From the rolling hills of Somerset to the bustling markets of London, Britain’s cheese landscape is rich and varied. These iconic cheeses not only represent the diverse terroirs of the UK but also embody centuries of tradition and craftsmanship.

So, whether you’re a dyed-in-the-wool turophile or just someone who appreciates a good cheese toastie, a journey through Britain’s iconic cheeses is a trip worth taking.

Engage with Us!

Have you tried any of these cheeses? What’s your favourite British cheese and why? Share your cheesy adventures in the comments below!

I hope this article gives you a deliciously compelling reason to explore Britain’s iconic cheeses. Happy cheese hunting! 🧀✨