Kent's Love Affair with Ice Cream
Few things capture the spirit of a Kent summer quite like an ice cream on the seafront. From the sandy beaches of Margate and Broadstairs to the pebbled shores of Deal and Whitstable, ice cream has been part of the county's seaside culture for generations. Kent's rich farmland and dairy heritage have also given rise to local producers who use fresh milk, cream and Kentish fruit to create memorable flavours.
This guide celebrates both home-grown Kent brands and nationally loved ice creams that are widely available across the county. Each one has earned its reputation through quality ingredients, distinctive flavours and a loyal customer base.
What Makes a Great Ice Cream
The best ice creams start with high-quality milk and cream, real fruit and natural flavourings. Texture is just as important as taste, with smooth, creamy results depending on careful churning and the right balance of ingredients. Many Kent producers highlight local strawberries, cherries and apples, giving their ice creams a true sense of place.
The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in Kent
1. Morelli's
Morelli's in Broadstairs is one of the most famous ice cream parlours in England. Founded by an Italian family in the early twentieth century, its retro interior and authentic gelato have made it a much-loved destination for generations of visitors to the Thanet coast.
2. Solley's Ice Cream
Solley's is a family-run Kent producer based on a farm near Deal. It is known for rich, creamy ice cream made with milk from its own herd, and its farm parlour is a popular stop for families exploring the east Kent countryside.
3. Taywell Ice Cream
Taywell is a Kent-born brand from the Tunbridge Wells area, recognised for premium ice creams and sorbets supplied to restaurants, cafés and farm shops. Its flavours have won industry awards and are prized by chefs for their quality.
4. Jude's
Jude's is a premium British ice cream brand known for its natural ingredients and commitment to sustainability. Its tubs are widely available in Kent supermarkets, and its indulgent flavours have made it a favourite for dessert lovers.
5. Ben and Jerry's
Ben and Jerry's is famous for its chunky, inventive flavours and playful branding. It remains one of the most popular choices in Kent shops, with a wide range of dairy and non-dairy options.
6. Häagen-Dazs
Häagen-Dazs is synonymous with luxury ice cream. Its dense, creamy texture and classic flavours such as vanilla and salted caramel make it a reliable choice for those seeking a premium treat.
7. Kelly's of Cornwall
Kelly's brings the taste of Cornish clotted cream ice cream to households across England. Its rich, traditional flavours are a popular choice for summer gatherings and family desserts in Kent.
8. Mackie's of Scotland
Mackie's is a family farm business known for its smooth dairy ice cream and renewable energy credentials. Its traditional flavour is widely appreciated for its simple, wholesome ingredients.
9. Northern Bloc
Northern Bloc specialises in plant-based and sustainable ice cream with creative flavours. It is an excellent option for Kent residents seeking vegan treats that do not compromise on taste.
10. Magnum
Magnum is one of the best-selling ice cream bars in the country, loved for its thick chocolate coating and creamy centre. It is a staple of seaside kiosks and corner shops throughout Kent.
Where to Enjoy Ice Cream in Kent
Seaside towns such as Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Herne Bay and Folkestone are ideal for an ice cream stroll along the promenade. Farm shops and parlours in rural Kent offer the chance to taste ice cream made from local milk. Many pick-your-own farms also sell ice cream made with their own fruit during the summer months.
Ice Cream Trends
Gelato-style ice cream continues to grow in popularity, with more parlours offering Italian-inspired flavours. Plant-based options are expanding rapidly, while artisan producers experiment with savoury and botanical flavours such as lavender, honey and elderflower. Sustainable packaging and local sourcing are becoming important factors for shoppers.
Kent's Seaside Ice Cream Heritage
The tradition of seaside ice cream in Kent dates back to the Victorian era, when railway lines brought day-trippers from London to Margate, Ramsgate and Herne Bay. Italian families who settled on the coast introduced gelato-making skills that continue to influence local parlours today. Many of these businesses have passed down recipes across several generations, and their vintage interiors have become attractions in their own right. Visiting one of these historic parlours is a memorable way to experience the character of the Kent coast.
Choosing a Quality Ice Cream
Check the ingredient list for real cream, milk and fruit, and look for brands that avoid excessive stabilisers and artificial flavourings. Locally made ice cream often has a shorter supply chain and fresher taste.
Final Thoughts
Ice cream is woven into the fabric of Kent life, especially along its sunny coastline. Whether you prefer a historic parlour in Broadstairs, a farm-made scoop near Deal or a premium tub from your local shop, the county offers a delicious variety of choices for every taste.