Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Adur

A Seaside District With a Sweet Tooth

Few things say summer on the Sussex coast like an ice cream on the seafront. In Adur, families stroll along Shoreham Beach, Widewater Lagoon and Lancing Beach Green with cones in hand, while kiosks, cafés and convenience stores keep freezers stocked year round. The district enjoys a lively mix of artisan Sussex producers, nearby Brighton and Hove gelaterias, and national brands found in every supermarket. This guide ranks the ten best ice cream brands you are likely to find in and around Adur, looking at flavour, ingredient quality, value and how each brand fits into local life.

How We Assessed Each Brand

We considered taste and texture first, followed by ingredient quality, use of natural flavourings and dairy sourcing. Availability across Adur shops and cafés mattered too, along with dietary options such as vegan, low-sugar and gluten-free ranges. Brand reputation, innovation in flavours and commitments to sustainable packaging rounded out the picture.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in Adur

1. Marrocco's

A legendary name on the Hove seafront for generations, Marrocco's is a short trip from Southwick and Fishersgate and draws Adur residents for its enormous range of Italian-style flavours. Its rich, creamy textures and nostalgic seaside setting make it an essential stop on any summer day.

2. Boho Gelato

Boho Gelato has earned a cult following for inventive flavours that change with the seasons, from salted caramel and pistachio to adventurous combinations featuring herbs, spices and local fruit. Its small-batch approach and vibrant presentation appeal to a younger, flavour-curious crowd.

3. Gelato Gusto

Another Brighton favourite enjoyed by many Adur locals, Gelato Gusto is known for authentic Italian methods and fresh ingredients made on site every day. Its fruit sorbets are particularly refreshing, and it offers dairy-free options that do not compromise on flavour.

4. Northiam Dairy

A proud Sussex producer, Northiam Dairy makes ice cream using milk and cream from its own herd. Its traditional flavours, such as strawberry, vanilla and rum and raisin, are stocked by farm shops and delis across the county, making it a top choice for those who value provenance.

5. Jude's

Hailing from neighbouring Hampshire, Jude's has become a staple of supermarket freezers in Shoreham and Lancing. The brand is recognised for its creamy texture, carbon-conscious approach and strong vegan range, with flavours like salted caramel and vanilla bean regularly topping customer favourites.

6. Ben & Jerry's

Instantly recognisable, Ben & Jerry's remains a top seller in Adur's supermarkets and convenience stores thanks to chunky mix-ins and playful flavour names. Its non-dairy line has helped it stay relevant as more shoppers explore plant-based desserts.

7. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is the go-to premium pint for many households, prized for its dense, velvety texture and short ingredient lists. Classic flavours like Belgian chocolate and cookies and cream are reliably excellent and widely available locally.

8. Kelly's of Cornwall

Although rooted in the West Country, Kelly's of Cornwall is a familiar sight in Adur's seafront kiosks and supermarkets. Its clotted cream flavour captures the essence of a traditional British seaside treat, which suits Adur's coastal setting perfectly.

9. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's uses whole milk and cream from its family farm and is known for a refreshingly simple, real dairy taste. It is a dependable choice for families looking for quality at a reasonable price.

10. Magnum

For on-the-go treats from beach kiosks and newsagents, Magnum dominates the ice cream bar category. Its thick chocolate shell and ever-changing limited editions keep it popular with both children and adults enjoying a day on the coast.

Local Ice Cream Trends

The Adur ice cream market reflects wider shifts in British dessert habits. Plant-based options have moved from niche to mainstream, with oat, coconut and almond bases now common in both artisan parlours and supermarket ranges. Shoppers increasingly seek out regional producers with traceable dairy, which benefits Sussex makers. Seasonal and limited-edition flavours generate excitement on social media, and gelato continues to grow in popularity thanks to its lower fat content and intense flavour. Sustainability is also gaining traction, with paper-based tubs, compostable spoons and refill-friendly packaging becoming selling points.

Best Places to Enjoy Ice Cream in Adur

Shoreham Beach offers a relaxed setting for a cone with views of the harbour mouth, while Widewater Lagoon in Lancing provides peaceful walks among wildlife. Southwick Green and Buckingham Park are ideal for family picnics, and the riverside path along the Adur estuary pairs beautifully with a scoop on a warm afternoon. On cooler days, many cafés in Shoreham town centre serve affogato and sundaes indoors.

Choosing the Right Brand for You

If you value provenance, start with Sussex and regional producers. For adventurous flavours, the artisan gelaterias near the Adur border are hard to beat. For convenience and consistency, national brands found in local supermarkets deliver dependable quality. Those with dietary needs should check labels carefully, as most brands now publish detailed allergen information and offer dedicated vegan or reduced-sugar lines.

Final Scoop

Adur's coastline and community spirit make it a wonderful place to enjoy ice cream in every season. Whether you prefer a classic vanilla cone on the beach, a scoop of artisanal gelato or a premium tub on the sofa, the brands above represent the very best of what is available locally. Treat yourself, explore new flavours and support local producers whenever you can.