Ice Cream and the Spelthorne Summer
When the sun shines over Spelthorne, residents head for the river. Families picnic in Laleham Park, walkers follow the Thames Path between Staines-upon-Thames and Shepperton, and boaters drift past Sunbury Lock. Few things complete a summer afternoon quite like an ice cream, whether bought from a riverside kiosk, a local café or the freezer aisle of a nearby supermarket.
The UK ice cream market has grown increasingly diverse, with premium dairy brands, Italian-style gelato, plant-based alternatives and nostalgic favourites all competing for attention. This guide looks at ten of the best ice cream brands enjoyed by Spelthorne residents, considering taste, quality of ingredients, variety and overall value.
What Makes a Great Ice Cream Brand?
We considered creaminess and texture, flavour quality, ingredient standards, range of flavours, dietary options and availability in local shops and supermarkets. A great brand delivers consistent quality and a little sense of joy with every scoop.
The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands Enjoyed in Spelthorne
1. Ben & Jerry's
Ben & Jerry's is famous for chunky, generously filled flavours such as Cookie Dough and Phish Food, along with a wide non-dairy range. Its playful personality and bold combinations have made it a freezer staple in homes across the borough.
2. Häagen-Dazs
Häagen-Dazs has long been synonymous with luxury ice cream, known for its dense, smooth texture and short ingredient lists. Flavours such as Belgian Chocolate and Salted Caramel make it an indulgent choice for dinner parties and special treats.
3. Jude's
Jude's is a British ice cream maker based in Hampshire, producing premium dairy and plant-based ice creams with natural ingredients. Its commitment to quality and its carbon-conscious approach appeal to shoppers who value both taste and sustainability.
4. Mackie's of Scotland
Mackie's of Scotland is a family farm business producing ice cream from its own dairy herd, with renewable energy powering much of its operation. Its Traditional flavour is celebrated for its simple, fresh creaminess.
5. Kelly's of Cornwall
Kelly's of Cornwall is known for its rich Cornish ice cream made with clotted cream. For many families, it evokes memories of seaside holidays and brings a taste of the West Country to Spelthorne's freezers.
6. Magnum
Magnum delivers indulgent chocolate-coated ice cream bars with a satisfying crack. Its range includes classic, almond and limited-edition flavours, making it a favourite choice from riverside kiosks and convenience stores on hot days.
7. Carte D'Or
Carte D'Or offers a broad range of dessert-style ice creams designed for sharing at family meals. Its approachable pricing and classic flavours such as Vanilla and Strawberry make it a dependable weekend favourite.
8. Yorvale
Yorvale is a Yorkshire farm-based ice cream producer making real dairy ice cream with milk from its own herd. Its focus on traceability and craftsmanship reflects the growing popularity of farm-to-cone brands.
9. Grom
Grom is an Italian gelato brand founded in Turin, known for authentic recipes and carefully sourced ingredients. For those who love the denser, silkier texture of gelato, it offers a premium Italian experience.
10. Wall's
Wall's is one of the most recognisable names in British ice cream, responsible for favourites such as Cornetto, Solero and Twister. Its classic ice lollies and cones are the kind of nostalgic treats that children and adults alike enjoy on summer days by the Thames.
Ice Cream Trends in 2026
Plant-based ice cream has become far more sophisticated, with oat, almond, coconut and pea-based options delivering creamy textures that rival dairy. Premiumisation continues, with shoppers willing to pay more for high-quality ingredients, provenance and unusual flavours. At the same time, reduced-sugar and high-protein options are attracting health-conscious consumers.
Sustainability is increasingly influencing brand choice, from recyclable packaging to responsibly sourced cocoa and vanilla. Limited-edition and seasonal flavours also keep the market exciting, encouraging customers to try something new throughout the year.
Enjoying Ice Cream in Spelthorne
Spelthorne offers plenty of scenic spots to enjoy an ice cream. The riverside at Staines-upon-Thames, the green spaces of Laleham Park and the village feel of Shepperton make perfect backdrops for a summer treat. Local cafés, farm shops and supermarkets across the borough stock many of the brands listed above.
When buying ice cream for gatherings, consider guests with dietary needs by including a dairy-free option. Store ice cream at a consistent temperature and allow premium tubs to soften slightly before serving for the best texture and flavour.
Pairing Ice Cream with Local Occasions
Ice cream fits naturally into many Spelthorne traditions. A tub of Mackie's or Jude's makes a simple dessert for a family barbecue in a Sunbury garden, while a box of Magnum or Wall's lollies is ideal for a children's party in Ashford. For dinner parties, a scoop of Häagen-Dazs alongside a warm fruit crumble offers a classic British pudding pairing. Picnics in Laleham Park call for insulated cool bags and single-serve cones, and a trip to a riverside café in Shepperton is rarely complete without something sweet and cold.
Conclusion
From indulgent chunky pints and luxurious dairy classics to farmhouse favourites and authentic Italian gelato, Spelthorne residents have an excellent choice of ice cream brands. The ten featured here offer something for every taste and occasion. Grab a spoon, head down to the river and enjoy one of summer's simplest and sweetest pleasures.
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