Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Gravesham

Ice Cream and the Gravesham Summer

When the sun shines over the Thames, there is nothing quite like an ice cream on the Gravesend promenade, watching ships glide past the historic town pier. From family days out at local parks to country walks near Shorne Woods, ice cream is woven into the fabric of summer in Gravesham. And thanks to supermarkets, convenience stores and specialist parlours, residents can enjoy it all year round.

Kent is sometimes called the Garden of England, and its rich farmland produces excellent milk and cream. That heritage has given rise to several outstanding regional ice cream makers that sit alongside world-famous brands in local freezers. This guide looks at ten of the best ice cream brands available to Gravesham residents.

What Makes a Great Ice Cream?

Quality ice cream starts with quality ingredients: fresh milk and cream, real fruit, good chocolate and natural flavourings. Texture matters too, with the best ice creams offering a smooth, creamy mouthfeel without being overly airy. Many shoppers now also consider provenance, sustainability and the availability of dairy-free options.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in Gravesham

1. Solley's Ice Cream

Solley's is a much-loved Kentish ice cream maker that produces its ice cream using milk from its own dairy herd. Its rich, creamy flavours showcase the quality of Kent dairy, and the brand is a firm favourite at farm shops, cafés and events across the county.

2. Taywell Ice Cream

Based in the Kent countryside, Taywell produces award-winning ice creams and sorbets with a focus on natural ingredients. Its flavours are popular with restaurants and delicatessens, and its fruit sorbets are a refreshing option for those seeking a lighter treat.

3. Morelli's

Morelli's is a legendary name in Kent ice cream, with roots in a traditional Italian gelato heritage that stretches back generations. Its classic parlour in Broadstairs has become an institution, and its gelato-style flavours are admired for their authenticity and richness.

4. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's has been making Cornish ice cream for over a century. Its clotted cream-inspired recipes deliver a distinctively rich flavour, and its tubs are widely stocked in supermarkets across Gravesham, making it an easy everyday indulgence.

5. Jude's

Jude's began as a family business in Hampshire and has grown into one of the UK's most respected premium ice cream brands. Known for inventive flavours, carbon-conscious production and excellent vegan options, Jude's appeals to shoppers who care about both taste and sustainability.

6. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's uses milk from its own farm and is renowned for its famously creamy traditional flavour. The brand also emphasises renewable energy on its farm, adding a sustainability story to its reputation for quality.

7. Ben & Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's needs little introduction. Its chunky mix-ins, playful flavour names and strong social values have made it one of the best-selling premium brands in the UK. Its non-dairy range is also among the most popular plant-based ice creams available.

8. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is synonymous with luxury ice cream. Its dense, velvety texture comes from a low-air recipe and simple ingredients, and flavours such as salted caramel and cookies and cream remain perennial favourites.

9. Magnum

Magnum revolutionised the ice cream bar with its thick Belgian chocolate shell and creamy vanilla centre. Its wide range of variants and seasonal limited editions ensures it remains a go-to choice for a quick treat from local newsagents and supermarkets.

10. Carte D'Or

Carte D'Or is a family favourite for dessert time, offering large tubs of smooth, affordable ice cream in classic flavours. It is ideal for serving alongside puddings, crumbles and fruit at family gatherings and Sunday lunches.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in Gravesham

The Gravesend riverside and town pier offer one of the most scenic spots for an ice cream, especially on summer evenings. Parks such as Windmill Hill and the open spaces around Cyclopark are also popular with families. Nearby farm shops and country pubs often stock Kentish brands, while Bluewater provides a wide choice of dessert parlours and cafés for shoppers.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

The ice cream market continues to evolve. Plant-based ice creams made from oat, coconut and almond milk are now mainstream and increasingly match dairy for creaminess. Shoppers are paying more attention to provenance, with local and farm-made brands enjoying strong growth. Lower-sugar and higher-protein varieties are gaining traction among health-conscious consumers, and adventurous flavours inspired by global desserts are becoming more common. Sustainability, from recyclable packaging to lower-carbon production, is also influencing buying decisions.

How to Choose Your Perfect Ice Cream

Consider the occasion. For a special dessert, a premium or farm-made brand will deliver the richest flavour. For family gatherings, large value tubs are practical and economical. If you have dietary requirements, check labels carefully for allergens and look for certified vegan or gluten-free options. And do not be afraid to try local brands, as supporting Kentish producers helps sustain the county's farming heritage.

Final Thoughts

Gravesham's freezers are filled with a wonderful mix of Kentish craftsmanship and international favourites. Whether you prefer the farm-fresh creaminess of a local producer or the indulgent reliability of a global brand, there is an ice cream to suit every taste. Grab a scoop, head to the riverside and enjoy one of the simplest joys of life in North Kent.