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The UK's best ice cream flavours and combinations
Ice cream has long been a cherished treat in the UK, especially during those warm summer days – when we get them. Sometimes the best time to enjoy them is on holiday because everyone deserves a treat while away! Who doesn't love an ice cream?
Over the years, British ice cream parlours and producers have crafted an array of flavours and combinations that tantalise taste buds and evoke nostalgia, and what makes this even better is that you can enjoy them at and around our holiday parks that have a range of food and drink, but especially ice cream! From traditional classics to innovative blends, the UK's ice cream scene is rich with choices that cater to every preference, perfect for the whole family (even with dog-friendly options). Whether you're a fan of creamy vanilla or in the mood to try something new, like peanut butter and jelly, there's an ice cream delight waiting for you. I know your mouth is watering, so let's explore some of the most beloved and unique ice cream flavours the UK offers…
The classic and popular ice cream flavours
For some people, only classic flavours will do, and certain staples have stood the test of time and continue to be firm favourites across the UK. Which classic ice cream flavour is your favourite? Classic flavours are not only popular but also form the foundation upon which many innovative combinations are built, ensuring that they remain timeless choices for ice cream enthusiasts. So, let's have a deeper look into these amazing classics…
Vanilla
Vanilla, often hailed as the king of ice creams, boasts a simple yet rich flavour profile that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings and desserts. Whether you just want a simple scoop or one with a drizzle of your favourite sauce, you can get vanilla anywhere – perfect for those who just want a simple treat. Some people may call you boring for opting for vanilla, but don't listen to them, as sometimes you can never beat a gorgeous vanilla flavour that brings back all of the nostalgia and memories from childhood. You can never go wrong with vanilla. They form the perfect foundation for milkshakes, especially the magical milkshakes you can indulge in at some of our resorts, where you can add a scoop on top of your crepe or make cookie sandwiches. The options are endless for the king of ice cream!
Chocolate
Did you know chocolate was one of the first flavours of ice cream before vanilla? This is one of the reasons why it remains a classic and one of the best ice cream flavours around, but the top reason is probably the delicious taste. Chocolate lovers can indulge in chocolate ice cream's deep, velvety texture, often enhanced with fudge swirls or chocolate chips. Whether you prefer classic milk chocolate, the deepness of dark chocolate, or the sweetness of white chocolate, nowadays, you can find various chocolate flavours to suit different family members. Not everyone's cup of tea, but chocolate will always remain a fan favourite for so many, especially the little ones in your family, so you'll probably be buying a lot of scoops while on holiday…
Strawberry
Another of the best ice cream flavours around, strawberry remains a summer favourite with its refreshing taste, especially when made with fresh British strawberries. You can find it anywhere, so you can indulge in the sweet strawberry pieces you may find in a scoop. The top fruity flavour will make you feel refreshed after a spoonful. However, did you know that, botanically, a strawberry is not a fruit? It's a receptacle - the thick part of a stem from which a flower grows. You learn something new every day! The ancient Romans even thought strawberries could cure depression, sadness, and kidney stones. For us, a scoop (or several) of strawberry ice cream can cure our sadness, especially on a UK beach holiday, enjoying the sand between our toes and the water splashing in the background… a 10/10 experience!
Mint Chocolate Chip
You either hate it or love it! Many people think that mint and ice cream shouldn't mix, but on the other hand, it's some people's favourite choice! Mint chocolate chip offers a cool and refreshing burst of flavour alongside the ooze of chocolate chips, making many people happy. The joy of enjoying mint chocolate chip ice cream has a scientific basis. Mint triggers the release of endorphins, and the sweetness of chocolate delivers a sense of pleasure, combining to create a blissful experience. No wonder why it's a popular ice cream choice. And it's all thanks to Marilyn Rickets, a young culinary student who invented the combination in 1973. Inspired by the refreshing taste of peppermint and the rich indulgence of chocolate, she combined the flavours for a delightful frozen treat. Thank you, Marilyn, for blessing our tastebuds and allowing us to enjoy this beautiful flavour on holiday!
The best creative and different flavours of ice cream to try
Moving on from the classic but amazing flavours, are you often in the mood to try new things, especially when on holiday? If so, then ice cream is one of the best foods to try if you want a mixture of combinations. You may already have unique ways of eating ice cream, as exploring unique and innovative flavours can be an exciting culinary adventure. From healthier options with a refreshing and slightly more bitter taste, like green tea, to two of the best flavours brought together, like coffee and Oreo, there are endless possibilities for those looking to break away from traditional choices. These creative ice cream flavours satisfy a sweet tooth and challenge and expand our taste horizons, so let's look at some of the best ice cream flavours for the unique foodies…
Coffee and Oreo
What's not to love about combining two beloved favourites: coffee and Oreos? Coffee-flavoured ice cream is exceptionally refreshing, offering a bold and invigorating taste that coffee enthusiasts adore. However, its strong, slightly bitter flavour can sometimes dominate the experience. Mixing in chunks of crumbled Oreo or Oreo-flavoured ice cream is the perfect match to balance this out and add a delightful twist. Like you and your partner on your romantic holiday, the creamy, sweet essence of the Oreos perfectly complements the robust coffee flavour, creating a harmonious blend that enhances both elements. Whether a coffee lover or an Oreo fanatic, this fusion offers a delightful way to enjoy the best of both worlds in one delicious scoop.
Rocky Road
Rocky Road itself was created in 1853 in Australia by mixing spoiled European confectionery with local nuts and low-quality chocolate instead of discarding it. The name "Rocky Road" referenced the rough, bumpy paths travellers took to reach the gold fields, as the desert resembled a rocky, uneven road. However, the Rocky Road ice cream flavour was created by William Dreyer in Oakland in 1929 by incorporating the same ingredients as the original dessert to lift the spirits of those impacted by the Wall Street crash that initiated the Great Depression of the 1930s. The slogan for this treat at the time was "share a scoop, share a smile." Still today, the flavour brings a smile to many. The flavour consists of a base of creamy chocolate ice cream. Sweet, chewy marshmallows contrast with crunchy, nutty almonds to provide a complex texture, with variations of the recipe available for you to try around the UK.
Buttered Popcorn
Aren't they just two of the best snacks combined, especially when watching a movie? Buttered popcorn can be the perfect option for those chilled holiday evenings in your holiday accommodation when you've had a full day of exploring. Whack a movie on and share this stunning choice with your loved ones. Enjoy the smooth, sweet ice cream combined with a crunch and the buttery taste of the popcorn – it's simply delightful! A unique choice for some, it's one of the best ice cream flavours you cannot miss out on! You may even find other popcorn variations in ice cream form, so why not explore all the options available?
Green Tea
Although rarer than some of the other ice cream flavours on the list, it's starting to become increasingly popular, mainly due to the health benefits of matcha, including its antioxidant properties and ability to relieve stress. The taste is often described as bitter (in a good way) but also creamy and sweet, and due to there being some caffeine in there, it's the perfect hot summer's day pick-me-up! With it being one of the healthier options, it's definitely an option if you want a light treat after dinner – the perfect end to a holiday evening full of entertainment!
Salted Nutella
Nutella is one of the best spreads ever invented. It's so creamy, chocolatey, and nutty that we could eat it with a spoonful. But how is this made even better? Eating it in ice cream form and adding a sprinkling of salt. The subtle saltiness brings out the rich, creamy flavours, making each bite more intense and satisfying. By incorporating sea salt, this fantastic dessert is now a gourmet indulgence, heightening the complexity and depth of the flavours. Trust us, you won't regret it once you try it! It brings a whole new level to the stunning taste of Nutella, making it one of the best ice cream flavours. It may surprise you with how well it works!
Cake Batter
Imagine an ice cream that takes you back to the nostalgic days of your childhood, when sneaking a taste of cake batter from the mixing bowl was a thrilling treat. This flavour of ice cream does just that, evoking those delicious memories with every creamy spoonful. Unlike those moments when you had to sneak a taste, this delightful flavour gives you full permission to indulge in the rich, sweet taste of cake batter. The smooth, velvety texture combined with the familiar flavour of freshly mixed cake batter makes this ice cream an irresistible treat for those looking to relive a piece of their childhood. Enjoying a scoop is like taking a trip down memory lane, making each bite a celebration of those forbidden tastes that are now perfectly permissible. A popular choice that the whole family can enjoy!
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Have you ever seen the iconic peanut butter and jelly combination on American television? This beloved duo, often showcased in school lunches and after-school treats, has become a staple of American culture. Start with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a British spin to this delight. Then, add a generous dollop of strawberry jam and a spoonful of rich, smooth peanut butter. The sweetness of the jam pairs perfectly with the nutty, savoury notes of the peanut butter, all enhanced by the excellent, creamy base of vanilla ice cream. This simple yet indulgent treat is a beautiful way to experience a taste of American nostalgia with a British flair, making for one of the most different flavours of ice cream.
The Coke Float
While technically not an ice cream flavour, it still involves ice cream, so the classic Coke float is worth mentioning. This intriguing treat consists of a glass of Coke topped with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. At first glance, it might seem like a peculiar pairing, and the sight of the fizzy soda bubbling up around the ice cream can look even stranger. However, the result is surprisingly delicious – a childhood classic. The fizzy drink mingles with the rich, smooth ice cream to create a delightful blend of flavours and textures that's both refreshing and indulgent. If you're feeling adventurous, don't hesitate to experiment with other soft drinks for your own unique spin on this timeless treat.
The best places to try these different flavours of ice cream
There are many different places to try some of the best ice cream flavours and even more to discover yourself! Whether at your holiday park in various restaurants and cafes or exploring your location and stopping off for a sweet treat, here are some of the best places to try these popular ice cream flavours…
St Ives Bay
St Ives in Cornwall is one of the most beautiful locations in the UK, especially as there are so many beaches around, and you know what beaches mean – ice cream!
Look at the milkshake menu at Sands Bistro at the St Ives Bay Holiday Park – your tastebuds will be dancing! You can also find plenty of other options here, often paired with brownies or waffles. And if you're exploring the town, Cornwall is known for its Cornish ice cream, so why not stop at somewhere like Moomaid St Ives, which has a selection of flavours – even ones for different dietary requirements?
Tattershall Lakes
Lincolnshire is another excellent place to enjoy many of the best ice cream flavours. You can hang out at the various places to eat here.
Sit back after a delicious meal at one of the options at Tattershall Lakes Country Park with your choice of ice cream to finish the meal off right. Dennetts Ice Cream can be found all over Lincolnshire. It uses homemade Lincolnshire Dairy Ice Cream for a truly traditional taste with some unique creations, too!
Retallack
Of course, another destination in Cornwall had to be added, as you can find some of the best ice cream flavours here!
If you’re heading into Newquay, which is around a 20-minute drive from the Retallack Resort, be sure to stop off at Freddo’s Homemade Ice Cream. They have a wide range of classic and inventive ice cream flavours that are sure to be a hit with every member of the family.
Sandy Balls
If you're opting for a forest holiday instead of a beach holiday, don't worry, as the New Forest still offers plenty of options to indulge in the best sweet treats!
It's yet another place to enjoy the most magical milkshakes at Sandy Balls Holiday Park. Plus, if you're getting active in the New Forest with your loved ones, you'll be able to find a range of places to refuel with some of the best ice cream flavours!
Whitecliff Bay
We've talked enough about humans—don't worry—we haven't forgotten your pooch.
At many of our locations, including Whitecliff Bay on the Isle of Wight, your dog can enjoy its own menu, and of course, it can finish its meal with a dog-friendly ice cream treat! So the whole family can enjoy the best ice cream flavours around!
Enter into ice cream heaven at Away Resorts
Now that you've discovered some of the best ice cream flavours you can enjoy in the UK and many of our holiday parks and surrounding areas, it would be rude not to dig in! Discover your next UK holiday destination, book, and start your ice cream-tasting journey. Why not even begin a ranking list every time you go away to find your number one sweet treat?