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

Discover the finest British and Irish 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. The shop offers an immersive tasting experience with expertly aged cheeses, complemented by specialty accompaniments like oatcakes and seasonal English apples. Its dedication to quality and tradition makes it a must-visit for cheese enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors in a lively urban 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

  • Try a variety of cheese samples before purchasing to find your favorite flavors.
  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience.
  • Consider the monthly cheese subscription for a curated tasting experience at home.
  • Bring a cooler bag if you plan to buy multiple cheeses to keep them fresh.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Covent Garden station on the Piccadilly Line, then walk approximately 5 minutes to 17 Short's Gardens. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and the walk passes through lively pedestrian areas. No parking is available nearby.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes serve the Covent Garden area, including routes 1, 6, and 15. Alight at stops near Long Acre or Bedford Street, then walk 5-7 minutes to Neal's Yard Dairy. Buses run frequently throughout the day with standard London fare.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby in central London, walking to Neal's Yard Dairy is pleasant and convenient. From Leicester Square, it takes about 7 minutes on flat, paved streets with plenty of shops and cafes en route.

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

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

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

A Legacy of Artisanal Cheese Craftsmanship

Neal's Yard Dairy stands as a beacon of traditional cheesemaking and maturation in the heart of London. Founded with a mission to champion farmhouse cheesemakers across Britain and Ireland, the dairy meticulously selects cheeses from small farms and creameries, maturing them in its own cellars to achieve peak flavor and texture. This careful process ensures that each cheese sold is of exceptional quality, reflecting the rich heritage and diverse terroirs of the British Isles.

The Covent Garden Shop Experience

Located at 17 Short's Gardens, the shop immerses visitors in a sensory journey through the world of cheese. The interior exudes a rustic yet refined charm, with knowledgeable staff offering generous tastings and expert advice tailored to individual palates. Alongside a wide variety of cheeses, the shop stocks complementary items such as oatcakes, seasonal English apples, and curated books on cheese and gastronomy, enhancing the overall experience.

Neal's Yard: A Vibrant Urban Enclave

The dairy is part of the colorful Neal's Yard area in Covent Garden, known for its boutique shops, sustainable ethos, and lively atmosphere. This hidden gem offers visitors not only exceptional cheese but also a glimpse into London's thriving artisan food scene. The surrounding streets buzz with energy, making it a perfect stop for food lovers exploring the city's cultural and culinary tapestry.

Seasonal Offerings and Specialties

Throughout the year, Neal's Yard Dairy showcases a rotating selection of cheeses that reflect seasonal availability and maturation cycles. During festive periods, specialties like Stilton and Montgomery’s cheddar become highly sought after, often drawing queues. The shop also offers a monthly cheese subscription service, delivering curated selections to aficionados eager to explore new flavors from the comfort of home.

Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

The dairy's dedication extends beyond taste to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. By partnering with small-scale producers who prioritize traditional methods and animal welfare, Neal's Yard Dairy supports local economies and preserves artisanal cheesemaking traditions. This commitment resonates with visitors who value authenticity and responsible consumption.

Accessibility and Practical Information

Open from 11am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly varied hours on other days, the shop welcomes cheese lovers throughout the week. While the Covent Garden location does not have wheelchair access, it remains easily reachable on foot from nearby transport hubs such as Covent Garden and Leicester Square stations. Card payments are accepted exclusively, streamlining purchases for visitors.

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