Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Malvern Hills

A Sweet Tradition in the Malvern Hills

After a bracing walk to the Worcestershire Beacon or a stroll along the riverside in Upton-upon-Severn, few treats are as satisfying as a scoop of ice cream. The Malvern Hills district enjoys a strong ice cream culture, supported by rich dairy farmland, seasonal orchard fruit and a constant flow of visitors looking for a sweet reward. Whether you prefer creamy farmhouse scoops, indulgent premium tubs or refreshing sorbets, there is plenty to enjoy.

Here are ten of the best ice cream brands and styles available to residents and visitors across the district, including both nationally loved names and the local farm-made traditions that make the area special.

1. Local Farmhouse Ice Cream Makers

Dairy farms across Worcestershire and Herefordshire produce farmhouse ice cream using milk and cream from their own herds. With short supply chains and small batches, these ice creams offer exceptional freshness and flavours that reflect the seasons, such as strawberry, damson and apple crumble.

2. Jude's

Jude's is a British ice cream brand known for its creamy texture, natural ingredients and commitment to sustainability. Flavours such as salted caramel and Madagascan vanilla are widely available in supermarkets and independent shops in the district.

3. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's produces ice cream on its family farm in Aberdeenshire using milk from its own herd. Its traditional dairy ice cream is celebrated for its simple, wholesome taste and is a popular choice in shops across the UK.

4. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's brings the taste of Cornish clotted cream ice cream to freezers nationwide. Its rich, indulgent flavour makes it a favourite for family desserts and summer treats.

5. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is famous for chunky, imaginative flavours and its long-standing social mission. Its tubs are a staple in local supermarkets and convenience stores, and its bold flavours are especially popular with younger customers.

6. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is synonymous with premium, dense and creamy ice cream. Its classic flavours, such as vanilla, strawberry and Belgian chocolate, are an elegant choice for dinner parties and special occasions.

7. Yorvale

Yorvale produces award-winning ice cream on a Yorkshire dairy farm and supplies cafés, restaurants and visitor attractions across the country. Its wide range of flavours and scoopable formats make it popular with independent cafés.

8. Magnum and Wall's

For classic ice lollies and cones, Wall's and its premium Magnum range are found in nearly every corner shop and petrol station. Their familiar treats are a convenient option on a hot day in the hills.

9. Artisan Gelato Parlours

Italian-style gelato is increasingly popular in the district. Artisan gelato makers churn smaller batches with less air, producing dense, intensely flavoured gelato and fruit-based sorbetto that showcase seasonal ingredients.

10. Vegan and Dairy-Free Brands

Dairy-free ice cream has improved dramatically, with brands offering oat, coconut, almond and soya bases that rival traditional ice cream for creaminess. Many local cafés now stock at least one vegan option to ensure everyone can enjoy a treat.

What Makes Great Ice Cream?

Quality dairy: Fresh milk and cream provide the rich, smooth base that defines excellent ice cream.

Natural ingredients: The best brands use real fruit, quality chocolate and natural vanilla rather than artificial flavourings.

Texture: Air content, known as overrun, affects how creamy and dense ice cream feels. Premium ice creams usually have lower overrun.

Balance: Sweetness should complement rather than overpower flavours, allowing each ingredient to shine.

Freshness: Ice cream stored correctly and served at the right temperature tastes far better than ice cream that has been repeatedly thawed and refrozen.

Local Flavours Inspired by the District

The Malvern Hills sit at the heart of a region famous for orchards and soft fruit. Local ice cream makers often draw inspiration from this abundance, creating flavours based on apples, pears, plums, damsons, strawberries and blackcurrants. Some even experiment with cider and perry sorbets, celebrating the Three Counties' famous drinks heritage. Seasonal specials are a great reason to revisit favourite parlours throughout the year.

Ice Cream Trends

Consumers are increasingly seeking lower-sugar and higher-protein ice creams, as well as smaller portion sizes. Sustainable packaging, such as paper tubs and compostable spoons, is becoming the norm. Unusual and savoury flavours, from miso caramel to olive oil, are attracting adventurous eaters, while nostalgic classics such as rum and raisin and mint choc chip continue to enjoy strong loyalty.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in the District

Popular spots include cafés near the hills' main walking routes, tearooms in Great Malvern, riverside kiosks in Upton-upon-Severn and farm shops throughout the countryside. Many farm shops offer ice cream alongside play areas and farm animals, making them ideal for family days out. During major events such as the Royal Three Counties Show, ice cream vans and stalls are a cherished part of the experience.

Supporting Local Producers

Choosing locally made ice cream supports dairy farmers, reduces food miles and helps sustain the rural economy. Many local producers also supply restaurants and cafés, so asking where an ice cream is made can lead you to some delicious discoveries.

Conclusion

From farmhouse scoops made with milk from nearby herds to beloved national brands and artisan gelato, the Malvern Hills district offers a wonderful variety of ice cream. Whether you are cooling down after a summer hike or treating the family on a day out, there is a perfect flavour waiting for you. Explore local producers, try seasonal specials and enjoy one of life's simplest pleasures in one of England's most beautiful landscapes.