Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in High Peak

Ice Cream and the Peak District Day Out

Whether you have just climbed Mam Tor, explored the caverns of Castleton, strolled around Buxton's Pavilion Gardens or paddled in the reservoirs of the Goyt Valley, an ice cream is the perfect reward. High Peak's cafés, farm shops, kiosks and village stores offer a tempting array of brands, from farm-made local favourites to nationally loved names. On sunny weekends, queues at ice cream counters are as much a part of the Peak District scene as walkers with rucksacks.

The region's dairy farming heritage means that fresh milk and cream have long been central to local food. Today, a new generation of farm-based producers and premium brands keeps that tradition alive with inventive flavours and high-quality ingredients.

How We Selected These Brands

We considered taste, ingredient quality, availability in High Peak and the surrounding area, reputation and variety of flavours. Our list includes local and regional farm producers, respected British dairies and premium international brands commonly found in local shops and supermarkets.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands Enjoyed in High Peak

1. Hope Valley Ice Cream

Hope Valley Ice Cream is made at Thorpe Farm in the Hope Valley using milk from the farm's own cows. Its on-site parlour is a favourite destination for walkers and families exploring the eastern edge of the borough. Farm-fresh ingredients and a wide choice of flavours make it a genuine local gem.

2. Cheshire Farm Ice Cream

Cheshire Farm Ice Cream is a family-run dairy producer just across the county border, known for its extensive flavour range and farm-based visitor experience. Its products are popular across the North West, and its commitment to dairy quality resonates with Peak District visitors.

3. Snugbury's

Snugbury's is a Cheshire farm ice cream maker famous for its creamy textures and adventurous flavours. Its reputation for quality has spread well beyond its home farm. It is a great example of the thriving farm ice cream tradition in the region.

4. Frederick's Ice Cream

Frederick's is a long-established Lancashire dairy ice cream maker supplying cafés, restaurants and kiosks across the North of England. Its traditional recipes and consistent quality make it a familiar sight in tea rooms and visitor attractions.

5. Jude's

Jude's is a British ice cream brand known for its natural ingredients and inventive flavours, including popular vegan options. Available in many supermarkets and independent shops, it offers a premium take-home choice for families in High Peak.

6. Mackie's

Mackie's of Scotland produces ice cream on its family farm using milk from its own herd and renewable energy. Its classic flavour, often described as real dairy ice cream, has a loyal following. Its sustainability credentials appeal to environmentally conscious customers.

7. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's of Cornwall is famous for its rich clotted cream ice cream. Widely available in supermarkets across the UK, it brings a taste of the West Country to Derbyshire freezers. It is a reliable choice for desserts and summer barbecues.

8. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is one of the world's best-known ice cream brands, celebrated for chunky mix-ins and playful flavour names. Its tubs are a staple in High Peak supermarkets and convenience stores. The brand also offers a growing range of non-dairy options.

9. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is a premium international brand known for its dense, creamy texture and classic flavours. It is a popular indulgence for evenings in, whether in a Buxton apartment or a holiday cottage in Edale. Its consistent quality has made it a household name.

10. Magnum

Magnum is one of the most popular ice cream bars in the UK, combining smooth vanilla ice cream with a crisp chocolate coating. Found in kiosks, petrol stations and village shops across High Peak, it is an easy, satisfying treat on a warm day out.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

Farm-to-cone experiences, where visitors can see cows and enjoy ice cream made on site, continue to attract families. Vegan and dairy-free ice creams have improved dramatically, with oat, coconut and nut-based options now widely available. Adventurous flavours inspired by desserts, botanicals and regional produce are increasingly common. Sustainability is also influencing choices, with brands highlighting renewable energy, recyclable packaging and local sourcing.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in High Peak

Look for ice cream at farm parlours, village tea rooms and kiosks near popular walking routes. Castleton, Edale, Hayfield and Buxton all have cafés offering a good selection. Many local delis and farm shops stock premium tubs from regional dairies, and supermarkets across the borough carry the major national and international brands. On busy summer weekends, arriving earlier in the day can help you avoid long queues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find farm-made ice cream near High Peak? Farm parlours in the Hope Valley and across neighbouring Cheshire are popular choices, and many village cafés and farm shops stock tubs from regional dairies.

Are there good dairy-free options? Yes. Brands such as Jude's, Ben and Jerry's and many regional producers now offer vegan ice creams made with oat, coconut or nut bases, and quality has improved considerably in recent years.

What makes farm ice cream taste different? Farm producers often use fresh milk from their own herds, smaller batches and higher cream content, which can create a richer flavour and smoother texture than mass-produced alternatives.

Conclusion

High Peak offers a delicious choice of ice cream, from the farm-fresh flavours of Hope Valley Ice Cream to well-loved national favourites like Jude's and Kelly's of Cornwall. Whether you prefer a cone after a hilltop walk or a tub on a cosy evening, there is a perfect scoop waiting. Support local producers when you can and enjoy one of life's simplest pleasures amid stunning scenery.