Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Harborough

Harborough's Love Affair with Ice Cream

There are few pleasures more quintessentially British than enjoying an ice cream on a sunny afternoon. In the Harborough district, that might mean a cone beside the Grand Union Canal at Foxton Locks, a tub shared on a picnic in the Welland Valley, or a family dessert after Sunday lunch in Market Harborough or Lutterworth. With supermarkets, farm shops, convenience stores and cafés across the district, residents have access to an impressive range of ice cream brands.

This guide explores ten of the best ice cream brands widely available to Harborough shoppers, considering flavour, quality of ingredients, texture, variety and value. Availability varies between stores, so it is worth checking your local supermarket or farm shop for the full range.

What Makes a Great Ice Cream Brand

The best ice creams use high-quality dairy or plant-based ingredients, deliver a smooth and creamy texture, and offer flavours that are both classic and inventive. We also considered each brand's sourcing practices, commitment to sustainability and ability to cater for dietary needs such as vegan or lower-sugar options.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in Harborough

1. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is famous for chunky, generously loaded flavours such as Cookie Dough and Phish Food. Its playful approach, strong social values and wide range of non-dairy alternatives make it one of the most popular premium tubs in Harborough supermarkets.

2. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's is a family-run farm business in Aberdeenshire that makes ice cream using milk and cream from its own herd. Its Traditional flavour is beloved for its pure, creamy taste, and the farm's investment in renewable energy adds to its appeal for eco-conscious shoppers.

3. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's of Cornwall has been making ice cream since the 1920s and is known for its rich Cornish clotted cream flavour. It brings a taste of the seaside to landlocked Leicestershire and is a family favourite for summer desserts and barbecues.

4. Jude's

Jude's is a Hampshire-based ice cream maker producing award-winning dairy and vegan ice creams. Its Salted Caramel and Very Vanilla flavours are standouts, and the company's carbon-conscious approach has earned widespread praise.

5. Haagen-Dazs

Haagen-Dazs is synonymous with luxury ice cream, known for its dense, velvety texture and short ingredient lists. Flavours such as Belgian Chocolate and Salted Caramel make it a go-to for indulgent treats and special occasions.

6. Magnum

Magnum is the UK's favourite premium ice cream stick, combining creamy vanilla ice cream with a thick, cracking chocolate shell. Its multipacks are a freezer staple in many Harborough homes and are widely stocked in local shops and petrol stations.

7. Carte D'Or

Carte D'Or offers large tubs of classic flavours at excellent value, making it ideal for families and entertaining. Its smooth vanilla, strawberry and chocolate options pair perfectly with crumbles, pies and summer fruit.

8. Yorvale

Yorvale is a Yorkshire farm-based ice cream producer using milk from its own cows. It has earned a reputation for quality and flavour innovation, and its products appeal to shoppers who value British farm provenance.

9. Northern Bloc

Northern Bloc, from Leeds, specialises in plant-based ice cream with inventive flavours such as Salted Caramel and Chocolate and Hazelnut. It is an excellent option for vegan and dairy-free households seeking a creamy, satisfying alternative.

10. Swedish Glace

Swedish Glace is a long-established dairy-free ice cream brand made with soya. Its smooth texture and accessible price make it a popular choice for people with lactose intolerance or those following a plant-based diet.

Local Ice Cream Experiences

Beyond supermarket freezers, Harborough offers seasonal opportunities to enjoy locally made ice cream. Farm shops and countryside cafés around the district often stock ice cream from Leicestershire and neighbouring counties, while summer events, village fetes and markets frequently feature traditional ice cream vans and artisan gelato stalls. Enjoying a cone at one of these events is a lovely way to support small producers.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

Plant-based ice cream continues to grow rapidly as more shoppers reduce their dairy intake. Lower-sugar and high-protein options are appearing on more shelves. Premium and craft brands are thriving as consumers treat themselves to indulgent experiences at home. Sustainability is also influencing choices, with brands investing in recyclable packaging, renewable energy and responsible sourcing of ingredients such as vanilla and cocoa.

Tips for Choosing the Best Ice Cream

Check ingredient lists for real cream and milk rather than excessive stabilisers. Look for brands with clear allergen labelling if you have dietary requirements. Store ice cream at a consistent temperature to prevent ice crystals, and allow tubs to soften for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture. For entertaining, pair classic vanilla with local seasonal fruit from Harborough farm shops for a simple but impressive dessert.

Conclusion

From the chunky indulgence of Ben and Jerry's and the farm-fresh quality of Mackie's and Yorvale to the plant-based creativity of Northern Bloc, Harborough shoppers are spoilt for choice. Whatever your taste, there is an ice cream brand to make every sunny day in the district a little sweeter.