Neal’s Yard Dairy is a beloved destination in London for cheese aficionados, known for its philosophy of “try before you buy.” Nestled beside the iconic Borough Market, the shop draws culinary enthusiasts, especially on weekends, eager to sample and purchase exceptional cheeses sourced from across the UK.
Sample an array of British cheeses at Neal’s Yard Dairy, just steps from Borough Market
When the original shop opened in Covent Garden in 1979, it sparked a revolution in the way Londoners thought about cheese. Neal’s Yard Dairy became a trailblazer in championing artisanal, farmhouse-style cheeses. The welcoming, unpretentious environment and generous sampling policy have inspired countless visitors to discover new textures and flavors without intimidation or pressure.
The Foodie Travel Guide
- Explore and taste before choosing your favorite British cheeses
- Participate in cheese-making workshops and expert-led discussions
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Borough Market
Visit Neal’s Yard Dairy at Borough Market
A visit to Neal’s Yard Dairy is a sensory contrast to grabbing shrink-wrapped cheese in a supermarket aisle. Set in a bright, characterful former warehouse at Borough Market, the space is visually captivating, with wheels and wedges of cheese displayed like edible sculptures. Shoppers browse thoughtfully, enjoying the experience of discovering which cheeses will delight their palate.
Buy Cheese Matured in Railway Arches
Neal’s Yard Dairy partners with around 70 small-scale producers from across Britain and Ireland, maturing a selection of these cheeses in their own aging rooms in Bermondsey. Located beneath Victorian-era railway arches on the route from London Bridge to Dover, these maturation spaces benefit from the natural climate control of thick brick walls, offering a perfect balance of coolness and humidity to nurture the cheeses as they develop their unique profiles.
Taste British Farm House Cheese
The shop features both well-known and lesser-discovered gems. Classics like Colston Bassett Stilton, Shropshire Blue, Cornish Yarg, and Westcombe Cheddar are all represented, but adventurous tasters might also enjoy trying:
- Lincolnshire Poacher – A robust, firm cheese with deep, nutty sweetness and tangy sharpness, sometimes revealing tropical hints reminiscent of pineapple
- Waterloo – Soft and creamy with a rich, buttery edge, balanced by a lactic, fresher core
- Childwickbury – A smooth and moist goat’s cheese with clean, lemony freshness and a subtle floral undertone
Tips
- Monthly, hands-on cheese-making workshops are extremely popular—booking ahead is highly recommended
- Watch for special themed events; recent highlights have included ‘Whisky and Cheese’ pairings and ‘The History of British Cheese’ lectures
- Visit in the fall for a chance to pick up heritage apples from Kent’s Brogdale orchards, home to the national fruit collection
- Shopping for a present? Explore our curated guide to the Best Gifts For Cheese Lovers
Cook’s Tip
To preserve the texture and flavor of artisanal cheeses, store them in the salad compartment of your fridge. The moisture from nearby vegetables helps maintain the right humidity, preventing the cheese from becoming too dry.
