When you think of British food, fashion might get the spotlight, but let’s give a shout out to something that makes our taste buds dance: British cheese. Yes, my friends, I’m talking about that glorious stuff that can turn a standard cracker into a gourmet experience. After a few trips spanning the charming landscapes of the UK, I’ve come to appreciate all the glorious cows, sheep, and goats who give their milking models a run for their money —and I’m definitely not milking this for a laugh!
Now, if you’ve ever been on a quest for local British cheeses, you know it’s like hunting for treasure, but the prize is sharp, creamy, and wonderfully funky. I’ve had my fair share of cheesy adventures, some straightforward and others more like blind dates gone wrong (hello, unexpected blue veins in what I thought was plain cheddar). But hey, a tale is only as good as the mishaps, right? So, grab a glass of your favourite red, settle in, and join me as I reminisce and dish out the best cheese finds from my travels.
First stop, Somerset! As the birthplace of Cheddar cheese, this region is the equivalent of going to Paris for croissants. With rolling hills strewn with grazing cattle, you can feel the cheese magic in the air. I visit Cheddar Gorge, a stunning limestone gorge where the cheese-making tradition is as rich as the dairy. It’s beautiful and, trust me, your iPhone will be crying for attention.
Do not skip a tour at one of the local cheese-makers. They’ll let you see how the cheese is crafted and, even better, provide samples. God bless those generous souls, because a pinch of cheddar on a cracker is just a starter; you’ll want to try a hefty slice, too.
Next up, let’s head over to Leicestershire and Derbyshire for another British classic: Stilton. This blue cheese is famous for its mouldy streaks, and as someone whose culinary adventures have occasionally led me astray, I can tell you it’s truly a masterpiece. The first time I tried it, I was apprehensive. “What’s all this spottiness?” I thought. But oh, once I took the plunge, my palate had an existential epiphany.
If you fancy yourself a cheese aficionado, you’ll appreciate a visit to the Derby Museum and Art Gallery. They occasionally run cheese-making demonstrations alongside exhibitions about the local area. Plus, you get to sample different styles, so you can play a fun game of “Which One Makes You Feel Like a Cheese Snob?”
T’was a frosty weekend when I found myself in Wensleydale. You know, the place where the cheese is so famous it gets name-checked by Wallace? Yep, that Wensleydale. It’s milky and creamy, with delightful hints of sweet cranberries that dance around on your tongue. The Yorkshire Dales are absolutely gorgeous too—the scenery sort of makes you forget all your nagging worries (like how you’ve run out of room in your fridge for more cheese).
I popped into the Wensleydale Creamery. I watched the cheesemakers spin their magic, and my cheese-loving heart nearly skipped a beat at the tasting bar. If you’re into something smooth and fruity, this is the cheese for you. Don’t forget to grab a wedge for the road; it’ll save you from those pesky cheese cravings later.
You thought I was done, didn’t you? No chance! Wales is home to some of the most underrated cheese gems. Have you met Caerphilly? It’s like the laid-back surfer of the cheese world — light, slightly crumbly, and very approachable (unlike that one cheese in your fridge that looks like it’s judging you).
Take a trip to Wales, and make sure to pop into a local market. You’ll find all sorts of handmade cheeses sold by ever-so-friendly cheese enthusiasts who love to talk about their craft. Every bite of Caerphilly is like a small, cheesy hug. Just be careful—if you munch too much, the cheese sweating may commence, and no one wants to be that person.
Now, if you’re on a cheese hunt, consider timing your visit with a cheese festival. Yes, friends, cheese festivals are a thing, and they are brilliant. There are stalls with tastings, cheese and wine pairing advice (or lack thereof), and the bizarre but hilarious ‘cheese rolling’ competition—like watching people roll down a hill for a wheel of cheese (it hurts just to think about).
Check out the Great British Cheese Festival in Gloucestershire or pop into a local cheese fair. You’ll meet fellow cheese lovers and revel in cheesy conversations (pun intended!)
What’s the point of all this tasting if you’re not going to take the cheese home? On my last trip, I managed to collect a little stash that turned into the most glorious cheese platter at home. Pro tip: the secret to a great cheese platter is variety.
Plop them all on a wooden board and don’t forget the crackers, chutney, and even a few grapes for a fancy touch. It’s the kind of ‘look what I’ve created’ moment that will win over both casual guests and more discerning cheese enthusiasts.
So, as I reminisce about my cheesy escapades, I’m filled with gratitude for the local artisans who pour their heart into every cheese wheel. Each bite carries a bit of the land, history, and stories, and let’s be honest – what’s better than sharing some glorious cheese over a good chat with friends or family? Besides, it makes for excellent small talk when someone brings up the weather, which, let’s be honest, is oftentimes very normal for the UK.
Next time you find yourself on the roads of the UK, keep your eyes peeled for those cheesy hotspots. And, please, if you try something that looks absolutely dodgy but tastes divine, let me know – I’m all in for that kind of adventure.
Now, have you ever gone on a food adventure of your own? Got any cheesy tales, or should I say – "tales of cheese"? Share your experiences in the comments!
