Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Burnley

Burnley's Love Affair with Ice Cream

Burnley may be known for its Pennine weather, but that has never stopped locals from enjoying a good ice cream. On sunny afternoons, families head to Towneley Park, Queen's Park and Thompson Park with cones in hand, while walkers reward themselves after climbing Pendle Hill or exploring the countryside around Hurstwood. Ice cream vans still make their familiar rounds through the terraced streets, and supermarket freezers are stocked with an impressive range of tubs.

Lancashire also has a proud tradition of dairy farming, and several of the county's farm-based ice cream makers have built loyal followings. This guide highlights ten of the best ice cream brands enjoyed in Burnley, from local heroes to international favourites.

What Makes a Great Ice Cream

Quality ice cream starts with fresh milk and cream, balanced sweetness and natural flavourings. Texture is equally important: the best ice creams are smooth and creamy, without icy crystals. Many premium brands use less air, creating a denser, richer product. Increasingly, customers also look for dairy-free options, reduced-sugar recipes and responsibly sourced ingredients.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in Burnley

1. Frederick's Ice Cream

Frederick's is a family-run Lancashire ice cream maker based in Chorley, with roots going back to the late nineteenth century. It is famous for traditional dairy ice cream in a wide range of flavours, from classic vanilla to indulgent sundae-inspired creations. Frederick's is served in cafes, restaurants and parlours across the county, making it a true Lancashire favourite.

2. Mrs Dowson's Ice Cream

Mrs Dowson's is another much-loved Lancashire brand, produced on a working dairy farm near Chorley. Made using milk from the farm's own herd, its ice cream is rich and creamy, and its farm parlour has become a popular day out. Many Lancashire delis, farm shops and cafes stock its tubs.

3. Wallings Farm Ice Cream

Wallings, based at Cockerham in North Lancashire, produces farmhouse ice cream in an impressive variety of flavours. Its reputation for creativity and quality has made it a destination for ice cream lovers across the region, and its products capture the flavour of Lancashire's dairy country.

4. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is one of the world's most recognisable ice cream brands, known for chunky mix-ins, playful flavour names and a commitment to social causes. Its tubs are available in supermarkets and convenience stores across Burnley, and its growing non-dairy range caters to plant-based customers.

5. Magnum

Magnum is synonymous with indulgence, offering thick Belgian chocolate coatings around creamy ice cream. Available in classic, white and almond varieties along with limited editions, Magnum is a popular choice for a premium treat on the go.

6. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is renowned for its dense, ultra-creamy texture and simple, high-quality ingredients. Flavours such as salted caramel, cookies and cream and strawberry cheesecake make it a firm favourite for those seeking a luxurious dessert at home.

7. Carte D'Or

Carte D'Or is a go-to brand for family desserts, offering large tubs of smooth ice cream in classic flavours. Its gelato-inspired range and versatility make it ideal for serving alongside puddings, pies and crumbles, a perfect match for traditional Lancashire desserts.

8. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's of Cornwall brings the taste of the West Country to Burnley's supermarket freezers. Made with Cornish clotted cream, its ice cream is rich and indulgent, and its Cornish vanilla is a classic choice for those who appreciate traditional quality.

9. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's is a family farm business from Aberdeenshire, known for using milk and cream from its own herd and generating renewable energy on the farm. Its traditional ice cream offers excellent quality and is widely stocked in UK supermarkets.

10. Wall's

Wall's has been part of British summers for generations. From Cornetto and Solero to Twister and Feast, its classic lollies and cones are sold by corner shops and ice cream vans throughout Burnley. The soft-serve Mr Whippy style from local vans remains a nostalgic treat for all ages.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in and Around Burnley

Burnley's parks are perfect spots for an ice cream on a sunny day. Towneley Park, with its historic hall and expansive grounds, is a particular favourite for families. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath through the Weavers' Triangle offers a pleasant stroll with a cone in hand. Nearby countryside destinations, including Wycoller, Barley and the Forest of Bowland, feature farm shops and tearooms serving Lancashire-made ice cream.

The town centre also has dessert parlours and cafes offering sundaes, waffles and milkshakes, which have become popular evening destinations for friends and families.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

Plant-based ice cream continues to grow, with oat, coconut and almond bases now offering excellent taste and texture. Artisan gelato and small-batch producers are gaining ground as customers seek authenticity and unique flavours. Reduced-sugar and high-protein options appeal to health-conscious consumers, while dessert parlours are turning ice cream into a social experience. Sustainability, including recyclable packaging and responsibly sourced ingredients, is increasingly important to shoppers.

Supporting Local Producers

Choosing Lancashire-made ice cream supports local dairy farmers and small businesses, helping to sustain the county's rural economy. Look out for local brands in farm shops, delis and independent cafes around Burnley and Pendle. Many producers also offer seasonal flavours using regional ingredients, giving customers a genuine taste of the area.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a farmhouse scoop from a Lancashire dairy or an indulgent tub from a global brand, Burnley offers plenty of choice. The ten brands above represent the best of local tradition and international innovation. So next time the sun appears over the Pennines, treat yourself to one of these delicious ice creams and enjoy a true taste of summer.