44 Famous English Soft Cheeses: A Smooth Tour For Cheese Lovers

44 Famous English Soft Cheeses: A Smooth Tour For Cheese Lovers

Soft cheeses have tantalized taste buds across culinary landscapes, offering delicate textures and nuanced flavors that dance on your palate.

Creamy delights showcase a remarkable segment of dairy craftsmanship, blending smoothness with rich gastronomic heritage.

Creamy and spreadable, soft English cheeses reflect centuries of agricultural tradition and passionate cheesemaking expertise.

Each variety carries unique characteristics, transforming simple ingredients into luxurious sensory experiences that elevate ordinary meals.

Regional techniques and local milk sources contribute to the distinctive profiles of these beloved dairy treasures.

Subtle notes of grasslands, seasonal variations, and artisan methods create complex flavor landscapes that intrigue serious food enthusiasts.

Skilled producers carefully craft these delectable rounds, balancing moisture, aging techniques, and cultural traditions.

Your culinary adventure awaits with these 37 famous English soft cheeses that promise delicious discoveries:

What Makes English Soft Cheese Types So Unique?

English cheese makers coax rich, buttery textures and delicate flavors from local milk. Whether blue-veined or triple cream, these types have won hearts for generations.

Stinking Bishop

Stinking Bishop

Stinking Bishop is a famously pungent soft cheese from Gloucestershire that boldly challenges traditional dairy expectations.

Charles Martell & Son crafted this unique cheese since 1972 using rare Gloucester cow milk or sometimes mixed with Friesian cattle milk.

Perry from Stinking Bishop pears washes the rind, creating a distinctive brown or pink exterior with an intense aroma.

Milk transforms into a smooth, creamy texture that delivers powerful flavors and extraordinary stinkiness.

The cheese gains notoriety for its extreme smell that can overwhelm unsuspecting cheese lovers.

Rare Gloucester cattle contribute to its exceptional character and limited production.

Fermented pear juice plays a crucial role in developing its signature scent and appearance.

Smooth and rich, this cheese remains a remarkable British dairy innovation that pushes sensory boundaries.

Creamy Lancashire

Creamy Lancashire

Creamy Lancashire cheese boasts a silky smooth texture that melts perfectly on warm toast, making it a beloved English dairy delicacy.

Originating in Lancashire, England, this cheese comes in three distinct varieties: Creamy, Tasty, and Crumbly.

Crafted from pasteurized or raw cow's milk, the cheese develops rich aromas and buttery flavors during its 4 to 12-week aging process.

Its natural rind covers a fluffy, creamy interior that spreads effortlessly across bread surfaces.

Regional enthusiasts often enjoy this cheese as a quick, satisfying snack.

Locals treasure its versatility in cooking and simple preparation.

Mild yet distinctive, Creamy Lancashire represents traditional British cheese-making techniques.

British dairy traditions shine through in every creamy bite of this regional specialty.

Somerset Brie

Somerset Brie

Somerset Brie represents a distinguished British soft cheese crafted in Somerset from pasteurized cow's milk with a distinctive cylindrical shape and smooth white natural rind.

Cream-textured cheese beneath its surface carries fresh, mushroomy, and grassy aromas that complement mild flavors.

Award-winning in 2002 at British Cheese Awards, this cheese earned gold medals in soft cheese categories.

Versatile ingredients enhance its culinary appeal when paired with cherries or apples.

Sandwich and salad preparations benefit from its smooth consistency.

Cheese makers carefully produce each wheel with traditional methods.

Mild taste profiles attract cheese enthusiasts seeking subtle, refined flavors.

Serving temperatures between cool and room temperature maximize its delicate characteristics.

Cornish Brie

Cornish Brie

Cornish Brie embodies the quintessential soft French-style cheese crafted in the lush landscapes of Cornwall using full-fat local cow's milk.

Characterized by its signature bloomy white rind and luxurious yellow creamy interior, this cheese offers a mild, buttery flavor profile that melts effortlessly.

Cheesemakers carefully mature each wheel to develop its signature gooey center, creating a smooth and rich texture that delights the palate.

Versatile in nature, Cornish Brie shines on cheeseboards and transforms simple dishes like sandwiches and salads.

Grilling enhances its creamy consistency, releasing complex buttery notes that complement various ingredients.

Authentic production methods ensure each bite reflects Cornwall's dairy traditions.

Connoisseurs appreciate its subtle yet distinctive taste that distinguishes it from other soft cheeses.

Regional craftsmanship guarantees a consistently high-quality product that celebrates Cornwall's dairy heritage.

Yorkshire Blue

Yorkshire Blue

Yorkshire Blue embodies a distinctive semi-soft blue cheese crafted in North Yorkshire with exceptional creamy spreadability.

Shepherds Purse produces this exceptional cheese using pure Yorkshire cow's milk, creating a uniquely mild flavor profile.

Blue veining runs generously throughout its soft body, delivering complex buttery and sweet undertones.

Aged carefully for eight weeks, the cheese develops nuanced aromas and a smooth natural rind.

Chefs frequently incorporate Yorkshire Blue into sophisticated soups and sauces.

Baked dishes benefit from its rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor.

Cheese enthusiasts appreciate its subtle yet complex taste experience.

Small-batch production ensures consistent high-quality results.

Golden Cross

Golden Cross

Golden Cross stands as an exquisite raw goat's milk cheese crafted by Kevin and Alison Blunt in East Sussex.

Shaped like a log with a distinctive bloomy rind, this cheese boasts a creamy and dense texture that captures sophisticated cheese lovers' attention.

Lightly rolled in ash when young, Golden Cross develops complex flavor profiles during its maturation process.

Natural rind development transforms its initial fresh and grassy aromas into deeply nutty undertones.

Subtle sweet and rich notes emerge as the cheese ages, creating an extraordinary taste experience.

Experienced cheese enthusiasts appreciate its unique character and remarkable depth of flavor.

Milk sourced directly from local goats contributes to its exceptional quality.

Peak ripeness reveals intense flavors that surprisingly evoke hints of peanut butter.

Sharpham

Sharpham

Sharpham represents a luxurious raw cow's milk cheese from Devon that stands out for its exceptional creamy texture and award-winning quality.

Crafted with vegetarian rennet, this brie-style cheese boasts a distinct moldy rind that protects its soft, gooey interior.

Its fresh aroma and buttery flavor make it a standout among English cheeses.

Winning the Super Gold medal at the World Cheese Awards in 2010 solidified its reputation as a top-tier dairy product.

Connoisseurs typically enjoy Sharpham paired with crisp bread or delicate biscuits.

Devon's cheesemaking tradition shines through in this rich, smooth cheese.

Artisan production methods ensure each wheel maintains consistent quality.

Sophisticated palates appreciate its complex flavor profile that reflects the region's dairy excellence.

Blacksticks Blue

Blacksticks Blue

Blacksticks Blue ranks as a distinctive British blue cheese crafted in Lancashire with a unique pale blue-orange rind and creamy, spreadable texture.

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses produces this exceptional cheese using pasteurized cow's milk and aging it for approximately 8 weeks.

Emerging from Inglewhite, this cheese offers rich, complex taste notes that dance between sharp and mellow.

Blue veining throughout the soft interior contributes to its intense character.

Sophisticated food pairings include crusty bread, crackers, and salads.

Serving recommendations suggest enjoying at room temperature to maximize its complex flavors.

Cheese enthusiasts appreciate its remarkable balance between creaminess and robust blue cheese intensity.

Baron Bigod

Baron Bigod

Baron Bigod is a distinguished English brie-style cheese crafted in Suffolk by Jonny Crickmore using raw Montebeliarde cow's milk and animal rennet.

Distinctive for being Britain's first unpasteurized farmstead Brie, the cheese features a complex flavor profile with clean, nutty, and lactic aromas.

Its unique texture transitions from silky near the bloomy rind to crumbly at the core, delivering nuanced mushroomy and earthy notes.

Crickmore produces the cheese in large traditional wheels, ensuring exceptional quality and depth of character.

Gourmet enthusiasts often enjoy Baron Bigod paired with complementary ingredients like chili jam, chorizo sausage, fresh figs, or crusty bread.

The cheese reflects Suffolk's rich dairy traditions and artisanal craftsmanship.

Its balanced brightness and vegetal undertones make it a standout among British cheese varieties.

Tunworth

Tunworth

Tunworth is a supreme soft cow's milk cheese from Hampshire that transforms classic Camembert traditions with its exceptionally creamy texture and complex flavor profile.

British artisan cheesemakers craft this delicate wheel with meticulous care, developing a signature bloomy white rind that encases rich, sweet interior notes.

Nutty and vegetal undertones dance across your palate with each smooth bite.

Mild milky flavors complement its subtle sweetness.

Wooden box packaging highlights its artisanal origins.

Oven baking releases its full aromatic potential.

Melting creates a luxurious spread perfect for crackers or bread.

Connoisseurs prize this award-winning English cheese for its remarkable depth and silky consistency.

Dorstone

Dorstone

Dorstone goat cheese emerges as a distinctive English delicacy from Herefordshire, crafted with raw goat's milk and uniquely rolled in charcoal powder.

Matured for 2-3 weeks, this cheese develops a fluffy, creamy texture beneath its moldy rind.

Flavor profiles burst with citrusy, zesty, and lemony notes balanced by subtle sweetness and savory undertones.

Nutty hints complement its complex taste, creating a sensory experience for cheese lovers.

Named after a historic Neolithic settlement, Dorstone carries cultural significance beyond its culinary appeal.

Gourmet enthusiasts often savor it by stirring chunks into warm lentil salads or pairing with crisp crackers.

Its distinctive charcoal-coated exterior sets it apart from traditional goat cheeses.

Connoisseurs appreciate Dorstone's intricate flavor complexity and artisanal preparation method.

Cote Hill Blue

Cote Hill Blue

Cote Hill Blue embodies a luxurious English blue cheese crafted from raw cow's milk in Lincolnshire, featuring distinctive blue veins threading through its creamy, sometimes runny texture.

Powerful aromas announce its complex character before the first bite reveals a remarkable flavor profile balancing saltiness and sharp peppery notes.

Smooth buttery undertones complement its intense blue cheese essence, creating a memorable tasting experience.

Small-batch production ensures exceptional quality and unique taste characteristics.

Traditional cheesemaking techniques contribute to its distinctive natural rind.

Milk sourced from local Lincolnshire herds enhances its regional authenticity.

Cheese connoisseurs prize its robust flavor and distinctive texture.

Careful aging develops its signature intense blue cheese qualities.

Dovedale

Dovedale

Dovedale cheese emerges as a distinctive British blue cheese crafted from full-fat cow's milk across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Staffordshire regions.

Cylindrical in shape with striking blue veins, this soft cheese boasts a smooth, creamy texture that melts effortlessly on the palate.

Mild compared to other blue cheese varieties, Dovedale develops its signature flavor during a careful three to four-week ripening process.

Dairy farmers carefully select premium milk to ensure the cheese's exceptional quality and balanced taste profile.

Smooth and clean-tasting, the cheese pairs wonderfully with crackers, fruits, and light wines.

Artisan cheesemakers follow traditional techniques to create this celebrated British dairy product.

Regional production methods contribute to its unique character and consistent taste.

Blue veining throughout gives Dovedale its characteristic appearance and subtle tangy undertones.

Bath Blue

Bath Blue

Bath Blue marks a pinnacle of English blue cheese craftsmanship, delivering intense flavor through its smooth, creamy texture and natural rind.

Crafted exclusively from cow's milk, this exceptional cheese develops complex taste profiles during its carefully monitored 8-10 week maturation in traditional stone rooms.

Winning the Supreme Champion title at the 2014 World Cheese Awards elevated its reputation among cheese connoisseurs worldwide.

Artisan cheesemakers select premium milk to create its distinctive character, ensuring each wheel meets rigorous quality standards.

Soft and rich, Bath Blue offers a clean, strong flavor that distinguishes it from other blue cheese varieties.

Mature wheels showcase deep blue-green veining throughout the creamy white base.

Regions around Somerset contribute to its unique regional identity.

Cheese lovers seek this award-winning specialty for its remarkable depth and balanced intensity.

Isle Of Wight Blue

Isle Of Wight Blue

Isle of Wight Blue is a distinctive British artisan cheese crafted by Rich Hodgson on his island farm since 2006.

Pasteurized cow's milk forms the base of this exceptional blue cheese with its unique mottled rind.

Veiny blue streaks run through the dense, creamy interior, creating a complex flavor profile.

Hodgson carefully produces each wheel by hand, ensuring quality and traditional cheesemaking methods.

Natural mold colors ranging from green to grey and white cover the cheese's exterior.

Smooth and rich textures complement its sharp and tangy taste.

Blue cheese enthusiasts appreciate its balanced flavor intensity.

British cheese traditions shine through this carefully crafted island specialty.

Bath Soft

Bath Soft

Bath cheese is a luxurious English soft cheese originating from Somerset, crafted exclusively from cow's milk with a distinctive bloomy rind and creamy white interior.

Distinctive earthy and grassy aromas define its sensory profile, complemented by complex flavor notes of lemon, mushroom, and citrus.

Brie-style in character, this cheese offers a smooth, rich texture that melts delicately on the palate.

Artisan cheesemakers carefully develop its unique characteristics through traditional production methods.

Somerset's rich dairy traditions contribute to its exceptional quality and regional significance.

Mild yet nuanced, Bath cheese provides a sophisticated taste experience for cheese connoisseurs.

Its soft consistency makes it versatile for various culinary applications.

British cheese enthusiasts prize this regional specialty for its balanced and elegant flavor profile.

Dorset White

Dorset White

Dorset White is a distinctive English cheese renowned for its robust tangy flavor and unique creamy-firm texture.

Small log-shaped wheels emerge from traditional dairy practices in southwestern England's Dorset region.

Cow's milk serves as the primary ingredient for this distinctive cheese.

Crafted with careful aging techniques, Dorset White develops a signature white rind that protects its dense interior.

Mild yet sharp taste profiles distinguish this regional specialty from other British cheeses.

Artisan cheesemakers carefully select high-quality milk to ensure consistent quality.

Regional dairy traditions contribute to its exceptional character.

Smooth spreadability makes Dorset White versatile for various culinary applications.

Capricorn Somerset Goat Cheese

Capricorn Somerset Goat Cheese

Capricorn Somerset Goat Cheese represents an exquisite British artisan goat cheese crafted in Somerset using pasteurized goat's milk.

Distinctive salt-sprayed bloomy rinds encase a smooth, creamy interior that ripens progressively from the cheese's exterior toward its center.

Nutty and mild flavors characterize its well-rounded profile, delivering a sophisticated taste experience.

Goat milk's natural qualities contribute to its unique texture, which ranges from firm to crumbly.

Connoisseurs often pair this cheese with crisp dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc.

Maturation processes carefully develop its complex flavor characteristics.

Somerset's dairy traditions deeply influence its production methods.

Cheese enthusiasts consistently praise its clean aromas and balanced taste.

Sussex Slipcote

Sussex Slipcote

Sussex Slipcote is a distinctive English sheep's milk cheese originating from Horsted Keynes with a unique moussey texture and bright tangy flavor profile.

Crafted in West Sussex, this fresh cheese ripens quickly within 10 days and typically features aromatic additions like peppercorns or herbs.

Its name stems from an old English term combining "slip" and "cote" to describe a small cottage cheese variety.

Shepherds traditionally produced this soft, moist cheese using their sheep's milk.

Lemony undertones blend seamlessly with subtle sweet hints, creating a complex taste experience.

Mild and creamy, Sussex Slipcote offers a delicate balance of fresh dairy characteristics.

Each bite reveals the gentle nuances of carefully crafted sheep's milk cheese.

Innes Log

Innes Log cheese radiates exceptional craftsmanship through its distinctive raw goat's milk composition crafted in Tamworth, Staffordshire.

Small-batch production by Joe Bennett and Innes Button ensures premium quality and unique flavor characteristics.

Dense and creamy textures define its remarkable structure beneath a delicate bloomy rind.

Smooth fudgy consistency melts effortlessly on the palate.

Goat milk serves as the primary ingredient, contributing to its rich, tangy profile.

Artisan cheesemakers carefully shape the cheese into traditional log forms.

British farmstead techniques influence its traditional preparation methods.

Handcrafted with meticulous attention, this specialty cheese represents English dairy excellence.

Little Ryding

Little Ryding

Little Ryding cheese represents a premium sheep's milk delicacy crafted in North Wootton, England by Wootton Organic Dairy.

Raw sheep's milk forms the base of this exceptional cheese, which develops a distinctive smooth and springy texture during its minimum four-week aging process.

Beneath its delicate bloomy rind, the cheese transforms from a firmer consistency to an increasingly creamy and soft profile as it matures.

Sheep milk's natural richness contributes to its complex flavor profile and luxurious mouthfeel.

Wootton Organic Dairy carefully produces this artisan cheese using traditional methods that highlight the milk's inherent qualities.

Each wheel demonstrates meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to quality dairy production.

Sheep milk's unique characteristics make Little Ryding a special regional specialty.

Organic practices further enhance the cheese's authentic and pure taste experience.

Childwickbury

Childwickbury

Childwickbury is a smooth, creamy goat's milk cheese from Bedfordshire, England, crafted by Oliver Hudson with exceptional artisanal skill.

Small-batch production gives this cheese its distinctive soft texture and natural rind.

Mild and fresh aromas hint at its delicate profile, featuring subtle floral undertones.

Citrusy and lemony flavor notes dance across the palate, creating a balanced taste experience.

Hudson carefully transforms pasteurized goat's milk into this elegant cheese.

Each wheel reflects traditional cheesemaking techniques passed down through generations.

Milk sourcing from local herds ensures premium quality and consistent character.

Connoisseurs appreciate its nuanced flavor complexity and gentle milky essence.

Cranborne

Cranborne

Cranborne cheese represents a luxurious English camembert-style delicacy crafted in Dorset by Chalke Valley Cheese Ltd with exceptional raw cow's milk characteristics.

Smooth and buttery textures define its soft interior beneath a delicate bloomy rind.

Mushroom-like aromas waft gently through its creamy profile.

Handcrafted with traditional techniques, this cheese delivers rich and complex flavor notes.

Its unique production method reflects genuine English dairy artistry.

Chalke Valley's commitment to quality ensures consistent excellence.

Each wheel promises a sensory journey through Dorset's pastoral landscapes.

Cheese connoisseurs appreciate its nuanced and sophisticated taste experience.

Shepherd’S Crook

Shepherd's Crook is a distinctive raw sheep's milk cheese originating from Somerset, England, renowned for its exceptional creamy texture and complex flavor profile.

Crafted by Wootton Organic Dairy, this artisan cheese develops a rich character during its minimum four-week aging process.

Its bloomy rind protects a smooth, springy interior that melts beautifully on the palate.

Small-batch production ensures remarkable quality and depth of taste.

Sheep's milk contributes a unique tangy undertone that sets it apart from traditional cow's milk cheeses.

Gentle aging allows nuanced flavors to emerge gradually.

Cheese enthusiasts appreciate its balanced creamy consistency and subtle earthy notes.

Somerset's dairy traditions shine through in every carefully crafted wheel of Shepherd's Crook.

Bosworth

Bosworth is a distinctive English goat cheese originating from Staffordshire with unique production techniques that set it apart from traditional varieties.

Highfields Farm Dairy crafts this artisan cheese using raw goat's milk, carefully aging it for three weeks to develop complex flavors.

Two signature versions emerge: Bosworth Leaf, elegantly wrapped in a chestnut leaf, and Bosworth Ash Log, featuring a distinctive ash-rolled exterior shaped into a log.

Goat milk provides a tangy, creamy base that gives the cheese its signature sharp profile.

Small-batch production ensures exceptional quality and attention to detail.

Traditional aging methods contribute to its rich, nuanced taste.

Texture ranges from smooth to slightly crumbly, depending on the specific variety.

Regional Staffordshire cheesemaking traditions shine through in every carefully crafted wheel.

Vulscombe

Vulscombe

Vulscombeis a distinctive English goat cheese originating from Tiverton, Devon, crafted from pasteurized goat's milk with a uniquely soft and creamy texture.

Goaty aromas define its sensory profile, accompanied by rich and herbaceous undertones.

Mild flavors characterize this rindless cheese, offering subtle hints of spiciness.

Artisan cheesemakers carefully produce Vulscombeis using traditional techniques that highlight the natural qualities of goat milk.

Devon's dairy traditions contribute to its exceptional character.

Smooth and approachable, the cheese appeals to those seeking gentle yet complex dairy experiences.

Goat milk's inherent qualities shine through in every bite.

Elegant and understated, Vulscombeis represents a refined approach to British cheese production.

Perroche

Perroche

Perrocheis a distinctive goat's milk cheese from Herefordshire characterized by its unique cylindrical shape and light, fluffy mousse-like texture.

Raw goat's milk transforms this cheese into a delicate culinary creation with a natural rind.

Artisan cheesemakers carefully craft this English specialty by allowing the cheese to ripen for approximately one week.

Handmade techniques ensure its smooth and creamy consistency.

Mild and fresh flavors define its taste profile.

Goat milk provides a subtle tanginess to the cheese.

Regional traditions influence its production methods.

Small-batch production guarantees high-quality results.

Dumpling

Dumpling is a rustic cheese originating from Somerset, England, crafted by Wootton Organic Dairy using traditional raw sheep's milk techniques.

Sheep milk gives this cheese a unique, rich flavor profile that sets it apart from other regional varieties.

Wootton's artisan approach ensures a carefully developed cheese with a distinctive wrinkly mold-ripened rind.

Underneath this exterior, the cheese reveals a smooth, creamy interior that melts beautifully on the tongue.

Cheese enthusiasts appreciate its soft texture and complex taste notes.

Mature wheels become available from just 10 days after production.

Somerset's dairy traditions shine through in every carefully crafted bite.

Sheep milk's natural qualities contribute to the cheese's exceptional character and depth of flavor.

St Jude

St Jude

St Jude cheese combines French-inspired techniques with English dairy craftsmanship, delivering a supremely creamy raw cow's milk experience from Suffolk.

Moldy white rinds protect its delicate interior, revealing an incredibly fluffy and mousse-like texture when aged between 2 to 4 weeks.

Small-batch production in Bungay highlights its artisanal quality and unique character.

Inspired by the French St Marcellin, this cheese offers a luxurious spreadable consistency.

Subtle earthy flavors emerge as the cheese matures.

Smooth and rich, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread.

Each wheel reflects traditional cheesemaking methods.

Careful aging transforms raw milk into a silky, complex delicacy.

Olde York

Olde Yorki is a premium sheep's milk cheese from Thirsk, England, characterized by its smooth spreadable texture and distinctive natural rind.

Shepherd's Purse crafts this unique cheese using pasteurized sheep's milk, creating a product with remarkable softness and exceptional taste.

Ripening between 10 to 22 days transforms the cheese's flavor profile, developing complex undertones that delight cheese connoisseurs.

British dairy traditions shine through its careful production process, highlighting regional agricultural expertise.

Spreadable at room temperature, Olde Yorki offers versatility for various culinary applications.

Smooth and supple, the cheese presents a creamy consistency that melts effortlessly on bread or crackers.

Its natural rind adds depth and character to the overall sensory experience.

Shepherd's Purse continues to uphold traditional cheesemaking methods while delivering a contemporary gourmet product.

Ragstone

Ragstone

Ragstone is a distinctive log-shaped goat cheese from Dorstone, England, crafted by artisan cheesemakers Charlie Westhead and Haydn Roberts.

Pasteurized goat's milk forms the base of this creamy delicacy, creating a smooth and supple texture beneath its delicate bloomy rind.

Matured carefully for two to three weeks, the cheese develops a rich, tangy flavor profile that captures the essence of traditional English cheesemaking.

Soft and spreadable, Ragstone offers a mild yet complex taste that delights cheese enthusiasts.

Its elegant cylindrical shape and pristine white appearance make it a standout on any cheese board.

Mild goat milk notes dance across the palate, providing a gentle and approachable experience for those exploring artisan cheeses.

Local dairy traditions shine through in every bite of this carefully produced cheese.

Westhead and Roberts continue to elevate Ragstone as a premier example of contemporary British goat cheese craftsmanship.

Cerney Pyramid

Cerney Pyramid

Cerney Pyramid is a distinctive goat's milk cheese crafted in England's Cotswolds region with a striking truncated pyramid shape inspired by French Valencay cheese.

Artisan cheesemakers carefully coat the cheese with a unique blend of sea salt and oak ash, creating a visually appealing exterior.

Raw goat's milk transforms the cheese into a smooth, creamy delicacy with a mild and fresh flavor profile.

Matured for just one to two weeks, Cerney Pyramid develops a soft texture that melts smoothly on the palate.

Cheesemaking traditions from the Cotswolds contribute to its unique character and regional identity.

Goat farmers select premium milk to ensure superior quality and taste.

Small-batch production guarantees exceptional attention to detail.

Serving temperature and pairing with light crackers or fresh herbs enhances its subtle nuances.

Old Burford

Old Burford

Old Burford cheese originates from Somerset's Wooton Organic Dairy, crafted exclusively from Jersey cows' raw milk.

Its deep golden hue signals rich flavor complexity and premium quality.

Dairy artisans carefully produce this distinctive soft cheese with a distinctive bloomy rind.

Smooth and creamy textures define its character, while a luxuriously runny interior delights cheese connoisseurs.

Organic production methods ensure exceptional taste and quality.

Jersey cow milk contributes unique depth and richness to its profile.

Regional Somerset traditions influence its careful preparation.

Traditional cheesemaking techniques help create this exceptional English cheese.

Stawley

Stawley

Stawley presents a distinctive goat's milk cheese crafted by Somerset artisans Caroline and Will Atkinson with remarkable precision.

Raw goat's milk transforms this unique cheese into a soft, complex delicacy celebrated by cheese connoisseurs.

Somerset's rolling landscapes provide an ideal environment for producing this mold-ripened wheel with its characteristic wrinkly exterior.

Dairy experts carefully age Stawley between 10 days and 6 weeks, allowing subtle flavors to develop naturally.

Experienced cheesemakers select premium raw goat's milk to ensure premium quality throughout production.

Small-batch techniques guarantee each wheel maintains exceptional texture and depth of flavor.

Artisan methods passed through generations contribute to Stawley's distinctive character.

Goat milk's natural properties create a creamy, nuanced cheese prized by discerning food enthusiasts.

Flower Marie

Flower Marie

Flower Marie is a luxurious English sheep's milk cheese crafted in Sussex with a distinctive pink-tinged white mold rind.

Golden Cross Cheese Company produces this exceptional cheese featuring a creamy, fudge-like texture reminiscent of soft ice cream.

Sweet and aromatic flavors highlight its complex profile, complemented by subtle mushroom and citrus undertones.

Named after the Corsican Fleur de Maquis cheese, this artisan variety matures for approximately three weeks.

Its unique rind develops naturally during aging, creating a beautiful visual appearance.

Sheep's milk provides a rich, smooth base for the cheese's exceptional taste.

Connoisseurs appreciate its delicate balance of flavors and creamy consistency.

Small-batch production ensures high-quality and authentic characteristics that make Flower Marie a standout in the English cheese landscape.

Finn

Finn

Finncheese stands out as a luxurious triple-cream raw cow's milk cheese crafted by Charlie Westhead at Neal's Yard Creamery in Herefordshire.

Named after Westhead's dog, this artisan cheese boasts an exceptionally creamy texture with a distinctive bloomy rind.

Extra cream added to the milk during production creates its signature rich and smooth consistency.

Carefully handcrafted, the cheese offers a velvety mouthfeel that melts effortlessly on the palate.

Neal's Yard Creamery specializes in unique, high-quality cheese varieties that showcase traditional cheesemaking techniques.

Westhead's innovative approach transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

Soft and indulgent, this cheese represents a perfect balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern cheesemaking innovation.

Finncheese demonstrates the depth of flavor possible in small-batch, artisanal cheese production.

Waterloo

Waterloo

Waterloo cheese delivers a luxurious British dairy experience crafted from unpasteurized Guernsey cow milk in Riseley, Berkshire.

Characterized by its golden yellow interior and natural carotene-rich color, this soft to semi-soft cheese offers a distinctive flavor profile.

Artisan chefs carefully produce Waterloo using traditional methods that highlight the milk's pure quality.

Smooth and creamy textures distinguish this regional specialty from other British cheeses.

Mild yet complex taste notes emerge from each carefully aged wheel.

Natural rinds protect the delicate cheese during maturation.

Its unique production process ensures maximum flavor development.

Cheese enthusiasts appreciate Waterloo's authentic regional characteristics and smooth consumption experience.

The Best English Soft Cheeses for Spreading and Savoring

Creamy, lush, and perfect for pairing, these soft cheeses shine at any afternoon tea or picnic. Sample them on fresh bread, crisp crackers, or alongside sweet fruit.

Norton And Yarrow Cheese Sinodun Hill

Norton And Yarrow Cheese Sinodun Hill

Sinodun Hill cheese boasts an extraordinary pyramid shape that sets it apart from traditional cheese varieties.

Crafted in Oxfordshire, England, this artisan cheese offers a mousse-like texture with an evolving flavor profile that starts fresh and citrusy.

Mature wheels develop a distinctive ivory rind adorned with blue and grey seasonal molds after 21 days of aging.

Prestigious awards like the World Cheese Awards in 2023 have recognized its exceptional quality and unique characteristics.

Almond and red fruit notes emerge as the cheese matures, creating a complex taste experience.

Skilled cheesemakers carefully craft each wheel using traditional techniques.

Goat's milk provides the primary ingredient for this award-winning cheese.

Its distinctive pyramid shape makes Sinodun Hill a visual and gustatory delight for cheese enthusiasts.

Cropwell Bishop Creamery Whole Beauvale

Cropwell Bishop Creamery Whole Beauvale

Whole Beauvale blue cheese delivers a luxurious taste experience from Cropwell Bishop Creamery with its remarkably creamy and intensely tangy flavor profile.

British artisan cheesemakers craft this distinctive blue cheese using carefully guarded traditional techniques passed through generations.

Mold-ripened edges contribute to its complex character and smooth texture.

Soft and spreadable, the cheese melts beautifully on breads or crackers.

Intense blue veining runs throughout its pale interior, creating dramatic visual appeal.

Connoisseurs appreciate its deep, nuanced flavor that balances sharp and creamy notes.

Made from cow's milk, Whole Beauvale offers a rich gastronomic adventure.

Careful aging ensures each bite provides a sophisticated cheese experience.

Shepherds Purse Cheeses Blue

Shepherds Purse Cheeses Blue

Blue by Shepherds Purse Cheeses represents a premium artisan blue cheese with extraordinary depth of creamy complexity and distinctive tangy notes.

Crafted meticulously in North Yorkshire, England, this handmade cheese emerges from traditional techniques using premium cow's milk.

Distinctive blue mold veins create a signature flavor profile that intensifies during careful aging.

Shepherds Purse, a family-run business, produces this exceptional cheese with generations of expertise.

Smooth texture characterizes each carefully crafted wheel, offering rich and nuanced taste sensations.

Artisan cheesemakers select only the finest ingredients to ensure superior quality.

Each bite delivers layers of sharp and balanced blue cheese characteristics.

Connoisseurs recognize this cheese as a pinnacle of British dairy craftsmanship.

Bradburys Cheese Brie De Meaux

Bradburys Cheese Brie De Meaux

Brie de Meaux crowns French cheese traditions with its luxurious soft texture and royal heritage recognized by French monarchs since medieval times.

Crafted meticulously from unpasteurized cow's milk in Meaux region, this legendary cheese delivers complex flavor profiles featuring buttery richness and subtle earthy undertones.

Creamy white bloomy rinds signal its authentic production methods passed through generations of French artisan cheesemakers.

Sophisticated palates appreciate its gentle mushroom and nutty nuances that emerge with each carefully aged wheel.

Professional cheese experts consider it among France's most prestigious dairy products.

Mild yet profound taste characteristics make it perfect for elegant cheese boards and gourmet appetizers.

Complex aging processes contribute to its remarkable depth and smooth consistency.

Sophisticated diners worldwide seek this exceptional cheese as a premium culinary experience.

Bath Soft Cheese Soft Cheese

Bath Soft Cheese Soft Cheese

Bath Soft Cheese mesmerizes cheese enthusiasts with its silky, creamy texture and exceptionally rich flavor profile sourced from organic cow's milk.

Produced by the Bath Soft Cheese company in Somerset, England, this artisanal dairy product boasts a distinctive soft, yielding rind that encases a luxuriously gooey interior.

Carefully crafted using traditional methods, the cheese delivers an unparalleled sensory experience for discerning palates.

Its smooth consistency makes it perfect for spreading on freshly baked bread or crisp crackers.

Gourmet restaurants and home kitchens showcase this exceptional cheese as a standout appetizer.

Sommeliers recommend pairing it with light white wines or fruity red varieties to enhance its complex taste.

Artisan cheese makers carefully age each wheel to develop its signature smooth and intense flavor.

Regional traditions and generations of dairy expertise contribute to Bath Soft Cheese's remarkable quality and widespread reputation.

Delamere Dairy Plain Goats Cheese Log

Delamere Dairy Plain Goats Cheese Log

Delamere Dairy's Plain Goats Cheese Log stands as a smooth, versatile cheese crafted from premium goat's milk with a distinctively mild and tangy profile.

British dairy experts carefully produce this soft white log to complement numerous dishes across different cuisines.

Consumers appreciate its creamy texture and spreadable consistency that works perfectly on salads, sandwiches, and cheese boards.

Nutritionists value the cheese for its protein content and lower lactose levels compared to cow's milk products.

Charcuterie enthusiasts frequently slice the log into elegant rounds for elegant presentations.

Mild yet flavorful, this cheese provides a sophisticated alternative to traditional dairy options.

Goat cheese lovers particularly enjoy its clean, slightly sharp taste that enhances many recipes.

Delamere Dairy ensures consistent quality through careful milk selection and traditional production methods.

Cropwell Bishop Creamery Blue Vein Cheese – Soft Whole Beauvale

Cropwell Bishop Creamery Blue Vein Cheese - Soft Whole Beauvale

Beauvale blue cheese delivers a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth experience with its smooth, creamy texture from Cropwell Bishop Creamery.

British artisans carefully craft this exceptional soft blue cheese through meticulous production techniques.

Distinctive blue veins run throughout the cheese, creating a complex flavor profile.

Rich and buttery notes complement the cheese's delicate tanginess.

Smooth consistency allows easy spreading on crackers or bread.

Sophisticated taste appeals to blue cheese enthusiasts.

Artisanal methods ensure high-quality results.

Beauvale represents premium British cheese-making traditions.

What’s the Difference Between a Fresh and a Ripened English Soft Cheese?

What's the Difference Between a Fresh and a Ripened English Soft Cheese?

English soft cheeses come in two main styles - fresh and ripened - each offering distinct textures, flavors, and uses. Understanding the differences helps cheese enthusiasts select the right cheese for their palate and recipes:

Comparison Table: Fresh and Ripened English Soft Cheeses

Feature Fresh English Soft Cheese Ripened English Soft Cheese
Texture Creamy, smooth, spreadable Creamy to oozy, with a delicate rind
Flavor Mild, clean, slightly tangy Complex, earthy, sometimes nutty or mushroomy
Aging Minimal or no aging; consumed fresh Aged for weeks to months
Examples Cream cheese, fresh curd cheese Brie-style, Camembert-style, bloomy rind cheeses
Appearance White, soft interior without rind Soft interior with white or bloomy rind
Culinary Uses Spreading, blending in recipes, fresh pairings Cheese boards, baking, wine pairings

Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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