Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in South Hams

Ice Cream and the South Hams Summer

Few experiences capture summer in the South Hams better than enjoying an ice cream on the quayside in Salcombe, beside the Dart in Dartmouth or on the sands at Bantham and Thurlestone. The district's lush pastures produce some of the richest milk and cream in England, and local dairies have turned that natural advantage into ice creams celebrated well beyond Devon.

This guide brings together brands made in the South Hams with West Country favourites and widely loved names that visitors regularly find in local shops, cafés and kiosks. Each offers something distinctive, from traditional dairy recipes to organic and plant based alternatives.

How We Selected These Brands

We considered flavour, ingredient quality, local provenance, awards and reputation, availability in the South Hams and range of options for different dietary needs.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in South Hams

1. Salcombe Dairy

Founded in 1979, Salcombe Dairy is the South Hams' signature ice cream maker. Using local milk and cream, it produces a wide range of award winning flavours and is also known for its bean to bar chocolate. A scoop from Salcombe Dairy is a rite of passage for many visitors.

2. Langage Farm

Langage Farm, established in 1980 near Plymouth, maintains its own herd of Jersey and Guernsey cows, whose rich milk gives its ice cream a luxurious texture. The farm also produces clotted cream and yogurts and is known for its commitment to sustainable, carbon conscious farming.

3. Granny Gothards

Granny Gothards is a Devon ice cream brand known for indulgent, generously flavoured recipes. Its tubs and scoops appear in delis, farm shops and cafés across the county.

4. Rocombe Farm

Rocombe Farm produces organic ice cream in Devon, using organic milk and cream. It appeals to customers who want a premium, organic treat with a strong local story.

5. Roskilly's

Roskilly's, from a family farm on Cornwall's Lizard peninsula, is famous for its Jersey milk ice cream. It is a West Country favourite that many South Hams cafés and shops are proud to serve.

6. Kelly's of Cornwall

Kelly's of Cornwall has been making ice cream for generations, known for its smooth Cornish vanilla. It is widely available across the South West and remains a nostalgic favourite for families.

7. Callestick Farm

Callestick Farm in Cornwall makes farmhouse ice cream using milk from its own herd. Its wide flavour range and quality have earned it recognition throughout the region.

8. Treleavens

Treleavens is a Cornish ice cream maker known for creative flavours and natural ingredients. It is frequently found at seaside kiosks and independent cafés.

9. Booja-Booja

Booja-Booja creates organic, dairy free ice cream alternatives made with cashew nuts. It is an excellent choice for vegan visitors and those avoiding dairy, and it reflects the plant based interest found in Totnes and Dartington.

10. Ben and Jerry's

Ben and Jerry's is one of the world's best known ice cream brands, with chunky, playful flavours and a long history of social campaigning. Its pints are stocked widely in supermarkets and convenience stores across the district.

Why Devon Ice Cream Tastes So Good

The secret lies in the landscape. The mild climate and green pastures of South Devon support dairy herds that produce rich, creamy milk. Breeds such as Jersey and Guernsey are known for high butterfat content, giving ice cream a smooth, indulgent texture. Many local producers also use clotted cream, a regional speciality that adds extra richness.

Trends in Ice Cream

Artisan and small batch production continues to grow, with makers experimenting with seasonal flavours such as local strawberries, gooseberries, honey and even sea salt. Plant based options are now standard in most cafés, made from oat, coconut or nut bases. Sustainability is increasingly important, with producers reducing packaging, using renewable energy and supporting regenerative farming.

Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in the South Hams

Salcombe's waterfront, Dartmouth's embankment, Kingsbridge's quay and the beaches at Hope Cove, Bigbury and Blackpool Sands are all perfect spots. Many farm shops and delis stock local tubs, allowing visitors to take a taste of Devon home. Village shops along the coast path often provide welcome refreshment for walkers.

Supporting Local Producers

Choosing locally made ice cream supports Devon farmers and food businesses, keeps money in the local economy and reduces food miles. Many producers welcome visitors to farm shops or parlours, offering the chance to learn more about how their ice cream is made.

Ice Cream Beyond Summer

While ice cream is closely associated with sunny days, local makers produce flavours for every season. Autumn may bring spiced apple or toffee, while winter often features Christmas pudding or mince pie inspired recipes. Many South Hams restaurants serve local ice cream with desserts year round.

Final Thoughts

From the iconic Salcombe Dairy to the Jersey and Guernsey richness of Langage Farm and much loved West Country brands, the South Hams offers ice cream lovers an outstanding choice. Whether you prefer classic vanilla, adventurous seasonal flavours or dairy free alternatives, there is a perfect scoop waiting beside the harbour, beach or village green.