Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in East Renfrewshire

Scotland's Sweet Love Affair with Ice Cream

It may surprise visitors, but Scotland has one of the richest ice cream traditions in Europe. Italian families who settled in Scotland in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries opened cafés and ice cream parlours in towns across the country, creating recipes that are still cherished today. In East Renfrewshire, a sunny afternoon at Rouken Glen Park, a walk around Eaglesham's Orry or a family trip to the coast is often accompanied by a cone or a tub of something delicious.

Today, the area's residents can choose from historic Italian-Scottish brands, farm-produced ice creams made with Scottish milk and cream, and popular international names available in local supermarkets. This guide highlights the ice cream brands that East Renfrewshire families love most.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands

1. Nardini's

Nardini's in Largs is one of Scotland's most famous ice cream parlours, established by an Italian family in the early twentieth century. Its art deco café and wide selection of flavours make it a beloved day-trip destination for East Renfrewshire families heading to the Ayrshire coast. Nardini's ice cream is also available in tubs for enjoying at home.

2. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's is a family-run farm business in Aberdeenshire that produces rich, creamy ice cream using milk from its own herd. Its traditional vanilla is a national favourite, and its products are widely stocked in East Renfrewshire supermarkets and convenience stores. Mackie's also generates much of its energy from renewable sources.

3. Equi's

Equi's is a historic Italian-Scottish ice cream maker based in Hamilton, with a heritage dating back over a century. Known for smooth, traditional recipes and a range of inventive flavours, Equi's supplies cafés and shops across the west of Scotland and remains a favourite of generations of Lanarkshire and Glasgow families.

4. Colpi's

Colpi's in Milngavie has been making ice cream to a family recipe for decades. Its classic vanilla is famously simple and delicious, and loyal customers from across the Glasgow area, including East Renfrewshire, are happy to travel for a cone. It is a true example of Italian-Scottish craftsmanship.

5. S. Luca

S. Luca of Musselburgh is one of Scotland's oldest ice cream makers, founded by an Italian immigrant in the early 1900s. Its rich, creamy ice cream and traditional sundaes have earned a devoted following, and its tubs can be found in select shops across the country.

6. Janetta's Gelateria

Janetta's in St Andrews is celebrated for its enormous range of flavours, from classics to adventurous seasonal creations. The family business has been serving ice cream for generations and is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Fife. Its creativity has earned it national recognition.

7. Arran Dairies

Arran Dairies produces premium ice cream on the Isle of Arran, a popular getaway for East Renfrewshire residents via the Ardrossan ferry. Its luxurious flavours use Scottish cream and are available in delis and shops on the mainland, bringing a taste of island life to local freezers.

8. Cream o' Galloway

Cream o' Galloway is an organic farm in Dumfries and Galloway producing ice cream with a strong focus on sustainability and animal welfare. Its visitor centre is a popular family attraction, and its ice cream is appreciated for its natural ingredients and ethical production.

9. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is known worldwide for chunky, inventive flavours and a strong social mission. Its pints are widely available in East Renfrewshire supermarkets and are a popular choice for movie nights and treats at home. Its growing range of non-dairy flavours appeals to plant-based customers.

10. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs offers premium, dense ice cream made with a short list of quality ingredients. Its classic flavours, such as vanilla, salted caramel and strawberries and cream, are staples in local supermarkets. It is a go-to choice for indulgent desserts and dinner parties.

Local Parlours and Cafés

Across East Renfrewshire, independent cafés, delis and dessert parlours in areas such as Giffnock, Clarkston, Newton Mearns and Barrhead serve a mix of locally made gelato and Scottish brands. Park cafés and garden centres are also popular stops for families on sunny days. Many of these outlets proudly stock Scottish brands, supporting local dairy farmers and producers.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

Plant-based and dairy-free ice creams have improved dramatically in taste and texture. Artisan gelato with seasonal Scottish ingredients, such as raspberries, whisky and tablet, is increasingly popular. Consumers are paying more attention to provenance, sustainability and packaging, and many producers are reducing sugar or offering smaller portion formats. Dessert parlours offering waffles, crêpes and sundaes also continue to grow in popularity.

Choosing Your Favourite

The best ice cream is ultimately a matter of personal taste. Traditional vanilla lovers may favour Mackie's, Colpi's or Nardini's, while adventurous eaters might prefer Janetta's creative flavours. For ethical and organic options, Cream o' Galloway stands out, while Ben and Jerry's and Häagen-Dazs offer indulgent convenience from the supermarket freezer.

Conclusion

Scotland's ice cream heritage is something to celebrate, and East Renfrewshire residents are fortunate to have access to so many excellent brands. From the Italian-Scottish traditions of Nardini's, Equi's and Colpi's to the farm-fresh quality of Mackie's and Arran Dairies, there is a perfect scoop for every occasion, whatever the Scottish weather decides to do.