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Neal's Yard Dairy – Covent Garden's Artisan Cheese Haven

Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.

4.8

Nestled at 17 Short's Gardens in London’s vibrant Covent Garden, Neal’s Yard Dairy is a celebrated cheese shop renowned for sourcing and maturing the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses. This specialist affineur offers a curated selection of traditional and rare cheeses, matured in their own cellars to peak perfection. Visitors can sample a variety of cheeses, enjoy expert advice, and take home artisanal delights in a charming, historic setting.

A brief summary to Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)

  • 17 Short's Gardens, London, WC2H 9AW, GB
  • +442075007520
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays mid-morning for a quieter experience and the freshest cheese selections.
  • Ask the staff for cheese tastings to find your perfect match before buying.
  • Try seasonal specialties and consider subscribing to their monthly cheese box for home delivery.
  • Combine your visit with exploring nearby Neal’s Yard and its colorful boutiques and cafes.
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Getting There

  • London Underground

    Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station, a 5-minute walk from Neal's Yard Dairy. Trains run frequently every 2-5 minutes during peak times. A single journey costs approximately £2.50 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.

  • Bus

    Several buses serve the Covent Garden area, including routes 14, 19, 24, and 29. The nearest stops are a 3-5 minute walk away. Bus fares are around £1.75 with contactless or Oyster card. Service frequency varies between 5-15 minutes.

  • Walking

    From Leicester Square or Holborn, it’s a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through central London’s bustling streets. The terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors, though wheelchair access is limited inside the shop.

Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop) location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)

A Legacy of British and Irish Cheesemaking Excellence

Neal's Yard Dairy stands as a beacon of traditional cheesemaking craftsmanship in the heart of London’s Covent Garden. Founded with a passion for supporting small-scale creameries and farms across Britain and Ireland, the shop is dedicated to sourcing only the finest farmhouse cheeses. The cheeses are matured in Neal's Yard’s own cellars, a process known as affinage, which ensures that each cheese reaches its optimal flavor and texture before reaching customers. This commitment to quality and provenance has established Neal's Yard Dairy as a trusted name among cheese connoisseurs.

A Curated Selection for Every Palate

The shop offers an extensive range of cheeses, from well-known classics such as Stinking Bishop and Lincolnshire Poacher to rare and seasonal varieties. The knowledgeable staff provide tastings and expert recommendations, inviting visitors to explore new flavors and textures. Beyond cheese, Neal's Yard Dairy also stocks complementary products like oatcakes, English apples in season, and specialist cheese literature, enhancing the overall gourmet experience.

Atmosphere and Location within Covent Garden

Located on 17 Short's Gardens, just a short walk from Covent Garden and Leicester Square, the shop is set in a lively and colorful area known for its boutique stores and vibrant street life. The interior reflects a traditional British cheese shop ambiance, with wooden shelving and displays that evoke a rustic yet refined charm. The shop’s position within the Neal’s Yard enclave places it amidst other ethical and sustainable businesses, contributing to a unique shopping atmosphere.

Visiting Experience and Services

Neal's Yard Dairy welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday, typically from mid-morning until early evening, with Sunday hours slightly shorter. While the Covent Garden shop does not have wheelchair access, it remains a must-visit for cheese lovers. The staff’s friendly approach and willingness to share knowledge make it an educational and enjoyable stop. In addition to in-store purchases, Neal's Yard Dairy offers a monthly cheese subscription service, delivering curated selections to enthusiasts nationwide.

Community and Sustainable Practices

The shop is part of a broader movement supporting sustainable and ethical food production. By championing small farmers and traditional methods, Neal's Yard Dairy helps preserve artisanal cheesemaking heritage. Its presence in Covent Garden also complements the area's reputation for independent, locally minded businesses, making it a cultural as well as culinary landmark.

Recognitions and Cultural Significance

Neal's Yard Dairy has been featured among London's best shops and is celebrated for its dedication to quality and authenticity. It serves not only as a retail outlet but as a cultural ambassador for British and Irish cheese, educating the public and elevating the profile of farmhouse cheese in the UK and beyond.

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