Looking to get your cheese fix in the capital? We’ve put together ten of the best cheese shops in London you don’t want to miss…
Nothing can beat the taste of a really good cheese. From a post-meal cheese board to an afternoon snack or main component in your dinner, it ticks all the boxes. Often served with crackers, charcuterie and wine, some of the most iconic cheese shops in the country can be found in London. The city has become a reference for cheese lovers and those looking to discover some of the best cheeses from around the world.
Whether you have a dinner party coming up, are looking for a gift for someone, or are just wanting to try something new, London’s cheese shops have you covered. Here we’ve rounded up ten of the best cheese shops in London you don’t want to miss…
Cheese Shops In London
La Fromagerie
As cliché as it sounds, cheese is one of the biggest components in french cuisine. To keep up with the tradition, La Fromagerie (French for cheese shop) is a traditional cheese shop that works hand in hand with artisans and producers to bring you some of the best products out there. As per its origins, the shop sells a majority of French cheeses as well as a range of British ones.
The shop also operates as a café where you can find a mouthwatering menu of drinks and dishes as well as tasting events. Get together with your friends or other half and tuck into delicious charcuterie and French wines in beautiful surroundings in the heart of the city. The shop has 3 venues that can be found in Highbury, Bloomsbury and Marylebone.
Where: La Fromagerie, 30 Highbury Park, London, N5 2AA
Website: lafromagerie.co.uk
Lechevalier
Another French-inspired cheese shop in London is Lechevalier. Founder Christophe Lechevalier is originally from France but settled in London almost 30 years ago. Lechevalier started out working in Borough Market where he sold wine but has now established his own independent cheese and wine shop. Lechevalier prioritises simple yet delicious products and prides itself on working with an array of local partners.
In-store you can find a variety of both French and British cheeses – ideal for cheese boards, gifting or enjoying as part of a meal. For their wine, they specialise in organic, biodynamic and natural wines from small producers. Chrisophe’s business partner Klaus Kuhnke, of Artisan Foods provides fresh bread baked daily in East London, while their charcuterie is sourced directly from producers or the best London suppliers. Head down for a fun evening with friends, a date night with your other half or to purchase some of the best cheese and wines in the city.
Where: Lechevalier, 85 Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 4TW
Website: lechevalier.co.uk
The Cheeseboard
The Cheeseboard is easily one of the ten best cheese shops in London and has been established in South East London since 1985. With a historic and distinctive look and plenty of cheese on offer, it’s a great spot for cheese lovers in London.
The shop offers eat-in and delivery of cheeses from France, Italy or Britain but you can also find a range of more exotic cheeses as well as cheese wedding cakes. This quirky location also has a bakery, perfect to create your favourite cheese board!
Where: The Cheeseboard, 26 Royal Hill, London, SE10 8RT
Website: cheese-board.co.uk
Paxton and Whitfield
Now if like us, you feel that a life without cheese is not worth living, Paxton and Whitfield is the address you need to know. First introduced as a market stall in 1712, it became a shop in 1797 and has stood firm ever since. With over 225 years of experience, two royal warrants from the Prince of Wales and Her Majesty herself, the location is iconic, prestigious and still boasts the same high quality produce as it did back in the 1700’s.
You can purchase high quality French and British cheeses as well as cheese boards, picnics and platters. In addition to being a household name, they provide you with sustainable packaging and support small artisans. Winston Churchill himself said : “A gentleman only buys his cheese at Paxtons and Whitfield.”
Where: Paxton and Whitfield, 93 Jermyn Street, St James’s, London, SW1Y 6JE
Website: paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk
Buchanans Cheesemonger
Buchanan’s Cheesemonger is an artisan cheesemonger that was established by Rhuaridh Buchanan as a result of his fascination with delicious food and great service. After a number of years managing fine dining restaurants, Buchanan passed up the opportunity to work with Thomas Keller in NYC in order to train as an affineur in Paxton & Whitfield. The next fifteen years were spent working with some of the most respected cheesemongers, cheesemakers and artisans to bring the highest quality produce to his shop on Portchester Place.
A stone throw from Oxford Street they stock a range of perfectly conditioned cheese alongside small production chutneys, carefully sourced biscuits, wines and fine ciders that are an ideal accompaniment to your cheese. A small team, they will help you choose the perfect cheese, put together a dreamy cheese board or build your ideal wedding cheese cake. Winners of the Cheese Counter of the Year 2015-2016 as well as a few other accolades, this is a cheese shop in London not to be missed.
Where: Buchanans Cheesemonger 5A Porchester Place, London, W2 2BS
Website: buchananscheesemonger.com
Funk
As the latest addition to the Cheese Bar family, Funk by Mathew Carver is available for delivery and collection. This London cheese shop focuses primarily on a selection of British cheeses, with over 30 handpicked products. Each is carefully selected and locally sourced all across the country directly from small producers.
The shop also offers seasonal specials and limited edition cheeses enabling you to discover some of the best British cheeses you might not otherwise know about. To compliment your cheese, you can also purchase charcuterie, crackers and natural wines – ideal to complete your dinner parties, or for chill evenings and date nights.
Address: Funk, 142 Columbia Road, London E2 7RG
Website: https://www.thecheesebar.com/funk/
Jumi
Jumi is a family owned cheese shop in London with over five generations of experience in the field. Started by the current owner’s great great grandfather in 1986, they have always specialised in the art of producing the finest Swiss cheese.
From milking the cows to selling the products directly in their boutique, the team is attentive and passionate about what they do. They aim to create the highest quality cheese with classics such as Emmental but also a few original recipes. A must try? The Blue Brain – a bizarre name for an unusual cheese! The shop also organises regular events so be sure to keep an eye on their website and social media channels.
Address: Jumi, 56 Newington Grn, Newington Green, London N16 9PX
Website: https://www.jumilondon.com/
The Fine Cheese co. Belgravia
The Fine Cheese Co. London Belgravia sells over 110 artisan European cheeses as well as some of Europe’s finest charcuterie. All products are freshly cut to order on a vintage Avery Berkel slicer for the best possible taste.
As well as a host of cheeses and wines to purchase, you can also sit in and enjoy their dining experience À Table. This offers the best from the cheese shop and much more. From a cooked breakfast to authentic Tuscan, to a host of salads and plats du jour, you’re spoilt for choice. As far as cheese shops in London go, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Where: 16 & 17 Motcomb St, London. SW1X 8LB
Website: https://www.finecheese.co.uk/belgravia-shop
Pistachio and Pickle Dairy
Pistachio and Pickle Dairy opened its doors in 2012. It started with a café and the following year added a cheese shop after spending several years holding dinner and cocktail parties. The founders are real food lovers looking to serve local and high-quality products. This is clear in their well-thought out cheese selection and the care taken to provide a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
After ranking in the Top 10 of the UK cheese counter awards in 2017-2018, the coffee shop moved to another location across the street for a more focused approach. As well as artisan cheeses, you can purchase bespoke cheese celebration cakes and freshly prepared platters. Accompany your cheese with chutneys and crackers as well as a host of fine wines. The personnel are knowledgeable and helpful, making it a great place to shop or head for brunch.
Address: Pistachio and Pickle Dairy, 6 Camden Passage, London N1 8ED
Website: https://www.pistachioandpickle.com/
Cheeses of Muswell Hill
Another family-run business that has made a name for itself is Cheeses of Muswell Hill. One of the most iconic cheese shops in London it opened its doors around 40 years ago. The shop is owned by Morgan McGlynn, a familiar face for the locals who’s on a first-name basis with many.
The popular shop might be small in size but with over 200 cheeses to choose from, you wouldn’t realise. Morgan, while keeping the traditional values of the shop adds a modern and vibrant touch. They sell cheese, crackers, cheese wedding cakes and wine as well as seasonal products and cheese tools. The little boutique was even featured on Nigel Slater’s ‘Kitchen Diaries’ and Paul Hollywood’s BBC Bread.
Address: Cheeses of Muswell Hill, 13 Fortis Green Rd, Muswell Hill,London N10 3HP
Website: https://cheesesonline.co.uk/
Now that we’ve shared with you some of the best cheese shops in London, where are you going first? Let us know in the comments!
Cheese Shops in London Tips For Your Visit
- Speak to the staff to get recommendations
- Consider the shelf life of the cheese
- Have a budget in mind
- Ask for wine pairing recommendations
- Think about the strength you like your cheese
- Taste and take notes so you know what you like
- Don’t be afraid to try something totally new!
