Which cheese farms in Somerset allow visitors to participate in cheese-making?

There's no denying it - cheese, particularly Cheddar, holds a special place in the hearts of the British population. From its succulent taste to its myriad uses in our food, this dairy delight is an integral part of our day-to-day culinary experience.

Somerset, a place revered for its lush pastures and bountiful dairy farms, is the birthplace of this famous British cheese. Would you like to learn about the magic behind this iconic food? If so, a tour to some of Somerset's cheese farms could be your next best holiday plan.

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This article will guide you through the various cheese farms in Somerset which not only offer intriguing tours but also allow visitors to participate in the cheese-making process.

Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company holds the distinction of being the only producer of cheddar in Cheddar, a village located in the heart of Somerset.

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The company offers thorough tours where you will learn about the intricate process of making authentic, traditional, handcrafted Cheddar. The tour includes a visit to the dairy, where you can witness the transformation of raw, local milk into delectable cheese.

Their interactive experience doesn't stop at observation, however. The company encourages visitors to partake in the cheese-making process. This hands-on opportunity is a great way to understand the art and science behind one of Britain's favorite food items.

Westcombe Dairy

Located in the beautiful countryside of East Somerset, Westcombe Dairy is a traditional cheese farm known for its award-winning cheddar and other artisanal cheeses.

A visit to Westcombe Dairy promises an immersive experience in the world of cheese-making. Their tour includes a visit to the cheese maturing rooms and the dairy where you can see how their handmade cheeses are crafted from rich, local milk.

And, your visit to Westcombe Dairy wouldn't be complete without partaking in the cheese-making process. By rolling up your sleeves to participate, you'll gain a new appreciation for the time-honored artisan methods that make their cheeses so special.

Wootton Organic Dairy

Wootton Organic Dairy, situated in the undulating pastures of North Cadbury, is a small family-run farm renowned for its variety of organic, handcrafted cheeses.

They offer a unique, intimate tour experience where visitors can meet the herd, visit the milking parlor, and observe the cheese-making process in action. The tour provides a rounded view of the farm-to-table process, displaying the journey of the milk from the grazing fields to the cheese maturing rooms.

What's more, Wootton Organic Dairy provides visitors with the chance to actively participate in the cheese-making process. This hands-on approach allows you to not only learn about the craft but also engage with it in a meaningful way.

White Lake Cheese

White Lake Cheese, based at Bagborough Farm in Pylle, Somerset, is a modern cheese farm known for its diverse range of goat, cow, and sheep cheeses.

Book a tour at White Lake Cheese, and you're in for a treat. Their detailed tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the farm and the cheese-making process, including the milking of their 700-strong herd of goats.

And yes, you guessed it! Visitors at White Lake Cheese also have the opportunity to participate in the cheese-making process. Engaging in the production process makes your visit not just a tour, but a learning experience that you won't forget.

Somerset Cheese Company

Located in the scenic Pylle village, Somerset Cheese Company is known for their range of hard and soft cheeses, made from cow, goat, sheep, and even buffalo milk.

During a visit to Somerset Cheese Company, you will learn about their cheese-making process - from curdling the milk to the maturation of the cheese. The company offers a unique opportunity to take part in the cheese-making process, allowing visitors to feel the thrill of creating their own tasty masterpiece.

In conclusion, visiting a cheese farm in Somerset is an experience that combines education with entertainment. The opportunity to participate in the cheese-making process is a unique one, offering you a chance to engage in a centuries-old artisan craft while enjoying the stunning Somerset countryside.

Pitchfork Cheddar at Trethowan's Dairy

Nestled in the scenic Puxton Valley is Trethowan's Dairy, home to the award-winning Pitchfork Cheddar. This cheese farm is renowned for producing traditional, raw milk cheddar using techniques passed down through generations.

Trethowan's Dairy welcomes visitors to partake in a comprehensive tour that provides a thorough insight into the cheese-making process. From the milking of the cows to the blending, seasoning, and maturation stages, you will get a firsthand experience of how this British cheese is made.

But the experience doesn't stop at observation. Trethowan's Dairy encourages visitors to take part in the cheese-making process. Roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the art of creating the iconic Pitchfork Cheddar, a must-try when in Somerset. This hands-on experience is not just an education, but a chance to contribute to the making of an award-winning cheese.

Neal's Yard Dairy Collaboration

Neal's Yard Dairy is not a cheese farm, but its intimate connection with Somerset's cheese farms makes it a notable mention. As one of the most iconic cheese shops in the United Kingdom, Neal's Yard Dairy works closely with several Somerset cheese farms to create unique British cheeses.

While Neal's Yard Dairy does not offer cheese-making experiences, they do host occasional cheese tasting events. During these events, you can sample a variety of cheeses from Somerset's farms, including the famed Gorwydd Caerphilly and a selection of goat cheeses. It's a great opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Somerset and learn about the diversity of the region's dairy products.

Conclusion

Somerset, much like its famous cheddar, is rich and vibrant. A visit to its cheese farms offers an immersive experience that combines culinary education with hands-on participation. Whether you're at the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, Westcombe Dairy, Wootton Organic Dairy, White Lake Cheese, Somerset Cheese Company, or Trethowan's Dairy, you have the unique opportunity to partake in a traditional cheese-making process.

In addition to the delight of being in the stunning Somerset countryside, these tours give you a newfound appreciation for the art, science, and tradition involved in making your favorite cheddar. And with special events hosted by the likes of Neal's Yard Dairy, your Somerset cheese experience is bound to be memorable.

So, the next time you add a basket of cheese to your shopping cart, remember the lush pastures, the friendly cows, the dedicated farmers, and the artful skill that goes into every slice of your favorite Somerset cheese. Perhaps, you might even find yourself planning another trip to join in the cheese-making process once again. After all, there's always more to learn, taste, and enjoy in Somerset's cheese farms.