Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Forest of Dean

Ice Cream and the Forest of Dean

Few things say summer in the Forest of Dean quite like an ice cream after a woodland walk, a cycle along the family trail or an afternoon canoeing on the River Wye. The area has a growing number of local ice cream makers who use fresh milk from Gloucestershire farms, alongside well-loved British and international brands stocked in shops, cafés and attractions across the district.

This guide celebrates ten of the best ice cream brands available in and around the Forest of Dean. They were chosen for flavour, quality of ingredients, local connection, reputation and the sheer joy they bring to visitors and residents alike.

1. The Ice Cream Shed

The Ice Cream Shed in Cinderford is a highly rated ice cream parlour that has quickly become a local favourite. With a wide range of flavours and a friendly atmosphere, it is a perfect stop for families exploring the Forest and residents looking for a sweet treat.

2. Cinderhill Farm

Cinderhill Farm in Cinderford produces ice cream locally, bringing a true farm-to-cone experience to the Forest of Dean. Its connection to local farming and commitment to fresh ingredients make it a wonderful example of Forest food production.

3. Wholly Gelato & Milk

Wholly Gelato & Milk is an artisan Gloucestershire producer making farm ice cream and gelato from its own family-farmed cows. Its creamy texture and inventive flavours have earned a loyal following, and its gelato is popular at events and farm shops across the county.

4. Winstones Ice Cream

Winstones Ice Cream has been made on Rodborough Common near Stroud for generations. This family business is a Gloucestershire institution, known for its traditional recipes and rich, creamy flavours. A visit to its parlour is a treat for anyone exploring the county.

5. C.J.G. Event Catering & Ice Creams

Serving the Forest of Dean area from near Ross-on-Wye, C.J.G. Event Catering & Ice Creams brings ice cream to weddings, fetes and events. Its mobile service adds a nostalgic and delicious element to celebrations throughout the region.

6. Jude's

Jude's is an award-winning British ice cream brand founded in Hampshire, known for natural ingredients and sustainability. Its tubs are widely available in supermarkets and independent shops, offering a high-quality option for enjoying at home.

7. Purbeck Ice Cream

Dorset-based Purbeck Ice Cream is celebrated for its natural, allergen-conscious recipes made with local milk. Many cafés and attractions stock it because it caters well to customers with dietary requirements without compromising on taste.

8. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's is a family-run farm business from Aberdeenshire famous for its creamy traditional ice cream made with milk from its own herd. Its renewable energy commitment and farm heritage resonate with environmentally conscious consumers in the Forest.

9. Ben & Jerry's

Ben & Jerry's is one of the world's most recognisable ice cream brands, famous for chunky mix-ins, playful flavour names and social activism. It is widely available across Forest of Dean supermarkets and convenience stores.

10. Carte d'Or

Carte d'Or is a popular choice for family desserts, offering a wide range of classic flavours at accessible prices. Its large tubs are a staple in many Forest households for summer gatherings and Sunday puddings.

What Makes Great Ice Cream

The best ice cream starts with excellent milk and cream. Local producers often have a significant advantage, using fresh milk from nearby herds with minimal travel time. The balance of sugar, fat and air also matters, affecting texture and flavour intensity. Artisan makers frequently use real fruit, quality chocolate and natural flavourings, creating richer, more authentic tastes than mass-produced alternatives.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

Plant-based ice cream continues to grow, with oat, coconut and almond bases improving rapidly in quality. Seasonal and locally inspired flavours, such as hedgerow berries, honey and local cider sorbets, are increasingly popular. Gelato-style ice cream with denser textures is becoming more common in the UK, and many producers are reducing sugar while maintaining indulgence. Sustainability is also a focus, with brands adopting recyclable packaging and renewable energy.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in the Forest

Ice cream is the perfect reward after exploring popular spots such as Symonds Yat Rock, Puzzlewood, Beechenhurst and the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, or after cycling the family trail. Many cafés, farm shops and attractions across the district stock local brands, so it is worth asking what is made nearby. Summer events and village fetes often feature ice cream vans and mobile parlours too.

Frequently Asked Questions About Local Ice Cream

Is locally made ice cream better? Local producers often use fresher milk and smaller batches, which can create richer flavour and texture. Buying local also supports Gloucestershire farmers.

Can I hire an ice cream van or cart for an event? Yes. Several regional businesses offer mobile ice cream services for weddings, parties and fetes, so book early for summer dates.

Are dairy-free options available? Many producers now offer sorbets and plant-based ice creams, so ask at parlours and farm shops.

Conclusion

From farm-fresh scoops made in Cinderford to beloved Gloucestershire institutions and famous national brands, the Forest of Dean offers plenty of ways to enjoy ice cream. Supporting local producers is a delicious way to experience the flavours of the region while helping sustain its rural economy.