Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in East Cambridgeshire

Ice Cream Culture in East Cambridgeshire

There are few better ways to spend a sunny afternoon in East Cambridgeshire than with an ice cream in hand. Visitors wander along Ely's Waterside, families explore the open spaces of Wicken Fen, and villages across the district host summer fêtes where a cold treat is essential. The region's strong dairy and fruit-growing traditions in neighbouring Suffolk and Norfolk have also produced some fantastic artisan brands.

This guide brings together ten ice cream brands that East Cambridgeshire residents can enjoy, whether from local delis, farm shops, supermarkets or specialist parlours. We have included East Anglian producers alongside respected British brands that are widely stocked in the area.

What Makes a Great Ice Cream Brand

We assessed flavour, texture, ingredient quality, creativity, availability and ethical credentials. The best brands use real dairy or high-quality plant-based alternatives, natural flavours and minimal artificial additives. Local provenance and sustainable practices also earned extra recognition.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands Enjoyed in East Cambridgeshire

1. Jack's Gelato

Jack's Gelato in Cambridge has built a cult following for its inventive, ever-changing flavours. Made fresh in small batches with seasonal ingredients, its gelato features unusual combinations inspired by herbs, spices and local produce. Many East Cambridgeshire residents consider a visit to Jack's an essential part of any summer trip to Cambridge.

2. Alder Tree

Alder Tree is a Suffolk producer renowned for its fruit cream ices, which are packed with real fruit grown on its farm. The intensely flavoured, naturally coloured ices have won numerous awards and are stocked by farm shops and delis across East Anglia, making them easy to find near Ely and Newmarket.

3. Booja-Booja

Booja-Booja, based in Norfolk, makes indulgent dairy-free ice cream and chocolate truffles using organic ingredients. Its cashew-based ice creams are smooth and rich, proving that plant-based desserts can be every bit as luxurious as traditional dairy. It is a favourite among vegan and allergy-conscious shoppers.

4. Aromi Gelato

Alongside its Sicilian bakery, Aromi in Cambridge serves authentic Italian gelato with classic flavours such as pistachio, hazelnut and stracciatella. Its commitment to traditional techniques and quality ingredients makes it a top destination for gelato lovers in the region.

5. Jude's

Jude's is a British ice cream brand known for its creamy texture, natural ingredients and commitment to sustainability, having achieved carbon-neutral and B Corp credentials. Its flavours, from salted caramel to vanilla bean, are widely available in supermarkets across East Cambridgeshire.

6. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's is a family-run farm business producing ice cream from its own herd's milk, powered in large part by renewable energy generated on site. Its traditional dairy ice cream has a loyal following throughout the UK and is regularly found in local stores.

7. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's is famous for its Cornish clotted cream ice cream, which delivers a rich, indulgent taste of the West Country. Widely stocked in supermarkets, it is a dependable choice for family desserts and summer barbecues across the Fens.

8. Marshfield Farm

Marshfield Farm produces organic ice cream on a family farm, using milk from its own cows. Its flavours range from simple classics to seasonal specials, and its organic credentials appeal to shoppers seeking high welfare and environmentally friendly products.

9. Ben & Jerry's

Ben & Jerry's is one of the world's best-known ice cream brands, famous for chunky mix-ins and playful flavour names. Its Fairtrade ingredients and social activism have helped it maintain a strong reputation, and it remains a crowd-pleaser in Ely's supermarkets and convenience stores.

10. Purbeck Ice Cream

Purbeck Ice Cream is a family-run Dorset producer known for natural, gluten-free ice cream made without artificial colours or flavourings. Its distinctive flavours and allergy-friendly approach have made it popular with delis, cafés and visitor attractions across the country.

Ice Cream Trends Worth Watching

Plant-based ice cream continues to grow rapidly, with oat, coconut and cashew bases now delivering impressive creaminess. Shoppers are also paying closer attention to provenance, favouring brands that use milk from named farms and fruit grown in the UK. Gelato-style ice creams with lower air content and intense flavours are increasingly popular, as are small-batch seasonal flavours featuring ingredients such as rhubarb, elderflower and strawberries, all of which thrive in East Anglia.

Sustainability is another important factor. Recyclable tubs, renewable energy in production and carbon reduction commitments are influencing purchasing decisions among environmentally conscious families.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in East Cambridgeshire

Ely's riverside cafés and kiosks are popular spots on warm days, offering views of boats on the Great Ouse. Farm shops around Soham, Burwell and the villages often stock artisan brands from Suffolk and Norfolk. National Trust sites such as Wicken Fen and Anglesey Abbey, just across the district border, are also great places to combine a walk with a treat.

Tips for Choosing Quality Ice Cream

Read the ingredients list and look for real cream, milk, sugar and natural flavourings near the top. Be wary of products with long lists of stabilisers and artificial colours. Try local brands at farm shops and markets, where producers often offer samples. If you have dietary requirements, look for clearly labelled dairy-free, gluten-free or nut-free options.

Final Thoughts

From inventive Cambridge gelato to fruit-packed Suffolk ices and much-loved national favourites, East Cambridgeshire residents have a delicious choice of ice cream brands. Supporting East Anglian producers helps the local economy while delivering exceptional flavour. Availability varies by season and retailer, so explore local shops to discover your new favourite scoop.