Three south Wales ice cream parlours have been named among the best in the UK.
From Brighton to Snowdonia, and everywhere in between, BBC Good Food has scoured the country to come up with a list of the UK’s best ice cream parlours.
Introducing the list, the experts said: “Looking for the ultimate scoop?
“The UK is home to a host of artisan ice cream parlours and historic gelaterias, each offering unique flavours and experiences.
“Whether you’re after bold, contemporary flavours or nostalgic classics, we’ve rounded up the ice cream shops that showcase the best of British ice cream craft, perfect for indulging your sweet tooth.”
Best ice cream parlours in the UK
The best ice cream parlours in the UK, according to BBC Good Food, are:
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Jack’s Gelato, Cambridge
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Gelato Gusto, Brighton
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Moomaid of Zennor, St Ives
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Morelli’s, Broadstairs
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Swoon, Cardiff
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Alandas Gelato, Edinburgh
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Morelli’s, Belfast
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Caliendo’s Gelato, London
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Darlish, St Albans and Hatfield
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Ginger’s Comfort Emporium, Manchester
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Joe’s Ice cream, Swansea (and other locations)
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Snugburys, Cheshire
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Jolly Nice, Gloucestershire
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Cadwaladers, Cardiff (and other locations)
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Ruby Violet, London
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Harbour Bar, Scarborough
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Gelupo, London
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Krum Gelato, Chester
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The Little Ice Cream Shop, Cumbria
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Romeo & Giulietta, London
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Heavenly Chocolate Emporium, Carmarthenshire
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La Gelatiera, London
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Glaslyn, Snowdonia
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Minus 12° Craft Ice Cream, London
The 3 South Wales ice cream parlours among the UK’s bestSwoon
Swoon is described as a “south-west” favourite when it comes to Gelato, according to Good Food.
It offers all kinds of flavours from strawberry to vanilla, as well as Italian-influenced flavours like Neapolitan coffee and bacio (chocolate and hazelnut).
Good Food added: “Seasonal specials lure regulars back in, from stand-out panettone and hot cross bun, to peanut butter & chocolate and ricotta & blueberry.
“You can even order a swoon on a stick (think posh Magnum).”
Swoon is also highly recommended by customers, boasting a near-perfect 4.8 (out of 5) rating on Tripadvisor from 23 reviews.
One visitor commented: “Super spot to pause a minute and eat some super ice cream over the road from the castle … friendly staff and some nice outdoor seating.”
Another added: “Fantastic spot for ice cream!! Especially for an after dinner treat. Will go back time and time again. Would definitely recommend.”
Joe’s Ice Cream
Joe’s Ice Cream is a “Welsh institution” founded more than 100 years ago, back in 1922.
It now boasts five sites in the south Wales area:
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Swansea
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Mumbles
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Cardiff
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Llanelli
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Llansamlet
Good Food said: “This blue-hued parlour’s must-try is its vanilla flavour, which is designed to be eaten fresh at the parlour.
“It also makes eye-catching ice cream cakes to collect from store, with fun flavours like raspberry pavlova, caramel fudge and strawberries & cream.”
Joe’s Ice Cream (Swansea) has a 4.6 rating on Tripadvisor from 291 reviews and has been said to have the “best ice cream around” by visitors.
One customer said: “Still the best (and I have been a fan since 1965). What you really need to understand is that Joe’s is about the vanilla ice cream.
“If you want tons of flavours then go elsewhere.”
They added: “A pure Joe’s vanilla is the best. There are a few comparisons (Tamar Bridge, Goodalls and Tagg Lane) but I’m still a Joe’s fan. Try it pure.”
Cadwaladers
Cadwaladers, founded in 1927 in Criccieth, is a family-run business offering “traditional” ice cream across six locations in Wales and England.
Cadwaladers not only sells ice cream but toasties, sarnies and coffee too. (Image: Tripadvisor) Its menu also features toasties, sarnies, light bites and freshly brewed coffee.
Good Food said: “The Cardiff Bay location is a particularly popular spot for visitors, situated in a bustling location by the waterfront with views over the marina.”
Cadwaladers, located in Mermaid Quay, has also received rave reviews on Tripadvisor, where it has a 3.8 rating from 327 reviews.
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One visitor posted: “The excellence of its Cricieth origins is upheld and even exceeded here!
“It was every bit as good as I remember, and further enhanced by exceptionally welcoming and pleasant staff.
“The ice-cream portion was generous, and a nut topping was provided without obstruction, as had been experienced in the past.
“A lovely setting and atmosphere – not to be missed!”