Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Runnymede

Ice Cream and the Runnymede Summer

When the sun shines over Runnymede, the riverbanks fill with picnickers, walkers and families enjoying the meadows, Virginia Water Lake and the parks of Chertsey and Egham. An ice cream is an essential part of these summer days. Thanks to supermarkets, cafes, kiosks and dessert parlours across the borough, residents can choose from an impressive range of brands, from luxurious global names to small-batch British producers.

Here are ten of the best ice cream brands to enjoy in Runnymede, along with what makes each one special.

How We Chose These Brands

We considered flavour, texture, quality of ingredients, variety, availability in the local area and brand values such as sustainability and ethical sourcing. We included both luxury tubs and everyday favourites.

1. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is famous for chunky, generously loaded flavours such as Cookie Dough and Phish Food, as well as its outspoken social values. Its expanding range of non-dairy options makes it popular with vegan customers.

2. Haagen-Dazs

Haagen-Dazs is synonymous with rich, dense premium ice cream made with a short list of quality ingredients. Classics like Vanilla, Belgian Chocolate and Salted Caramel are perfect for an indulgent evening treat.

3. Jude's

Jude's is a Hampshire-based producer creating award-winning ice cream close to Runnymede. Its creamy texture, natural ingredients and carbon-conscious approach have earned it a loyal following across the South of England.

4. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's has been making ice cream with Cornish clotted cream for generations. Its Cornish Vanilla is a nostalgic favourite that brings a taste of the seaside to Surrey freezers.

5. Mackie's of Scotland

Mackie's produces ice cream on its family farm in Aberdeenshire, using milk from its own herd and renewable energy. Its Traditional flavour is simple, smooth and delicious.

6. Magnum

Magnum offers indulgent chocolate-coated ice cream bars that have become a summer staple. Its limited-edition flavours and mini formats make it ideal for sharing at family gatherings.

7. Carte D'Or

Carte D'Or is a reliable family favourite, offering large tubs at accessible prices. It is often used for desserts at home, paired with crumbles, pies and summer berries.

8. Northern Bloc

Northern Bloc is a British brand that creates sophisticated, plant-based friendly flavours with a focus on natural ingredients and sustainable packaging. It appeals to those seeking modern, refined tastes.

9. Purbeck Ice Cream

Purbeck, made in Dorset, crafts small-batch ice cream that is free from artificial additives and gluten. Its imaginative flavours often appear in independent cafes and farm shops.

10. Booja-Booja

Booja-Booja creates organic, dairy-free ice cream using cashew nuts, delivering an indulgent texture that rivals traditional dairy. It is a top choice for vegans and anyone avoiding lactose.

Ice Cream Trends in 2026

Plant-based ice cream continues to grow, with oat, coconut and nut bases improving dramatically in taste and texture. Reduced-sugar and high-protein options are attracting health-conscious consumers. Global flavours such as matcha, ube and miso caramel are becoming more common, while artisan gelato parlours bring Italian craftsmanship to local high streets. Brands are also investing in recyclable packaging and lower-carbon production.

Enjoying Ice Cream Around Runnymede

Some of the best places to enjoy a cone include the riverside paths near Runnymede Meadows, the shores of Virginia Water Lake and Chertsey Meads. Thorpe Park visitors also enjoy frozen treats between rides. For an outdoor picnic, an insulated cool bag will keep tubs firm for longer. Many local cafes and dessert parlours stock rotating brands, so it is worth exploring to discover new favourites.

How to Choose a Quality Ice Cream

Check the ingredients list: high-quality ice cream usually contains cream, milk, sugar and natural flavourings with few additives. Premium brands typically have less air whipped in, resulting in a denser, creamier texture. If you have dietary needs, look for clearly labelled vegan, gluten-free or allergen-free options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ice cream and gelato?

Gelato generally contains more milk and less cream than ice cream, is churned more slowly to incorporate less air and is served slightly warmer. The result is a denser texture and more intense flavour.

Are dairy-free ice creams as good as traditional ones?

Plant-based ice creams have improved enormously. Brands using cashew, oat or coconut bases now deliver rich, creamy textures, and many people enjoy them regardless of dietary needs.

How should ice cream be stored?

Keep ice cream at the back of the freezer, where temperatures are most stable, and close the lid tightly to prevent ice crystals forming. Allowing a tub to soften for a few minutes before scooping improves texture and flavour.

Which brands are made closest to Runnymede?

Jude's in Hampshire is one of the nearest premium producers, while farm shops across Surrey and Berkshire sometimes stock small-batch ice cream made by local dairies, offering a true taste of the region.

Conclusion

From indulgent classics to innovative plant-based creations, the ice cream brands available in Runnymede offer something for every palate. Whether you are cooling down after a walk along the Thames or serving dessert at a family barbecue, these brands guarantee a delicious moment of summer happiness.