Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Hartlepool

Ice Cream and the Hartlepool Seaside

Hartlepool's long sandy beaches, the Victorian promenade at Seaton Carew and the bustling marina make the town a natural home for ice cream. On a sunny afternoon, queues form at kiosks and parlours as families, walkers and day-trippers cool off with a cone. Even in cooler months, supermarket freezers and restaurant dessert menus keep ice cream firmly on the table.

The ice cream enjoyed in Hartlepool comes from a mix of regional dairies, artisan producers from across the UK and well-known international brands. Here are ten names that consistently delight local ice cream lovers.

What We Looked For

We considered flavour, texture, quality of ingredients, availability in Hartlepool shops and venues, variety of options including dairy-free, and overall reputation. We also gave credit to regional producers who support North East dairy farming.

1. Doddington Dairy

Doddington Dairy is a family farm in Northumberland producing ice cream from its own herd's milk. Its flavours are rich, creamy and made with natural ingredients, and it is a favourite in North East cafes, farm shops and delis. For many Hartlepool visitors, it represents the best of regional dairy craftsmanship.

2. Beckleberry's

Beckleberry's is a North Yorkshire producer known for award-winning premium ice creams and sorbets. It supplies restaurants, hotels and independent retailers throughout the North, and its adventurous flavours make it a popular choice for dessert menus in the Tees Valley.

3. Yorvale

Yorvale is a Yorkshire farm-based ice cream maker producing a wide range of flavours for cafes, attractions and restaurants. Its commitment to farm-fresh milk and creative seasonal recipes has earned it a loyal following among independent venues across the North East.

4. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's is a family-run farm business in Aberdeenshire famed for its real dairy ice cream. Its traditional vanilla is a benchmark for many ice cream fans, and its tubs are widely available in UK supermarkets. The company also uses renewable energy on its farm, a detail that appeals to eco-conscious shoppers.

5. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's of Cornwall brings the taste of the West Country to freezers across the country. Its clotted cream-inspired Cornish ice cream is smooth, indulgent and a firm favourite for family desserts. It is easy to find in Hartlepool supermarkets and is popular with anyone who wants a classic seaside flavour at home.

6. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is famous for chunky, playful flavours packed with cookie dough, brownies and swirls. It also offers a large non-dairy range. Its pints are a supermarket bestseller in Hartlepool and are a popular treat for film nights and celebrations.

7. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is a premium international brand known for dense, smooth ice cream made with a short list of ingredients. Its salted caramel, cookies and cream and vanilla varieties are indulgent favourites, and its mini cups are ideal for portion control.

8. Magnum

Magnum is one of the best-known ice cream bars in the world, with its signature cracking chocolate shell. It is a common sight in Hartlepool corner shops, petrol stations and seafront freezers, offering reliable indulgence on the go.

9. Carte D'Or

Carte D'Or is a go-to brand for family desserts, offering large tubs of classic flavours at accessible prices. Hartlepool households often keep a tub in the freezer for Sunday puddings, parties and quick treats.

10. Jude's

Jude's is a British ice cream maker that has built a reputation for great taste and sustainability, including efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Its dairy and plant-based ranges are stocked by major supermarkets and are well liked by shoppers seeking a premium yet responsible choice.

Independent Parlours and Seafront Kiosks

Alongside these brands, Hartlepool is home to independent ice cream parlours, cafes and seasonal kiosks, particularly around Seaton Carew and the marina. Many serve soft-serve cones with flakes, sundaes and milkshakes, while others scoop regional dairy ice cream. Visiting these local businesses is part of the classic Hartlepool day out and supports the town's visitor economy.

Ice Cream Trends

Dairy-free and vegan ice creams made from oat, coconut and almond bases have grown rapidly. Gelato-style ice cream is also on the rise, prized for its dense texture and intense flavour. Shoppers are increasingly interested in provenance, favouring farm-made ice cream using local milk. Lower-sugar and high-protein options appeal to health-conscious consumers, while limited-edition seasonal flavours generate excitement throughout the year.

How to Choose the Best Ice Cream

Check the ingredients list for real cream, milk and natural flavourings. Look at texture, as good ice cream should be smooth rather than icy. Consider dietary needs and allergens, especially nuts and gluten in mix-ins. For the freshest experience, try local dairy ice cream at independent cafes and farm shops.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are enjoying a cone on the promenade, picking up a tub for dessert or treating the family after a day at the beach, Hartlepool has plenty of fantastic ice cream to choose from. From Northumberland dairies to international favourites, these brands prove that a sweet treat by the sea never goes out of style.