Best Ice Cream Shops in Bristol

Swoon Gelato is an artisan gelato business dedicated to bringing joy and deliciousness to its customers through handcrafted gelato and gelato cakes. They pride themselves on using the finest ingredients, sourced locally and internationally, to create exceptional flavors. What sets Swoon Gelato apart is their slow churning process. This method, slower than traditional ice cream making, results in a uniquely creamy texture and intense flavor. They emphasize using the finest ingredients, particularly Somerset milk and pistachios sourced from Sicily. They also utilize a lower serving temperature (-12°C) compared to ice cream (-18°C) to maximize flavor release. Swoon Gelato operates in several locations across the UK, including Bristol (Wapping Wharf), Bath, Oxford, and Selfridges. They offer a wide range of gelato flavors, with a focus on both classic favorites and innovative, seasonal creations. A key part of their offering is their gelato cakes – homemade delights perfect for celebrations or a special treat. Swoon Gelato’s philosophy centers around creating moments of joy and connection through gelato. They describe their gelato as “the very best in artisan gelato, made with love and laughter to lift your spirits.” They encourage customers to “eat twice as much!” due to the lower fat content and rich texture. They also offer the “Gift of Gelato,” aiming to provide a small moment of happiness. Additional information includes that gelato typically has 50% less fat than traditional ice cream while maintaining a creamier texture due to the slow churning process. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients, including locally sourced milk and imported Sicilian pistachios.

Mr Whippy Ice Cream is a well-established brand, initially originating in the UK with Dominic Facchino’s observation of the Mister Softee franchise. It has since expanded internationally, particularly to Australia and New Zealand. The brand is known for its distinctive soft-mix ice cream, characterized by a unique stretchiness. Reviews consistently praise the friendly service and wide variety of flavors and toppings available, including cones, sundaes, specialty cones, and shakes. Many reviewers highlight the nostalgic experience of purchasing ice cream from a mobile van, often at seaside locations. Some reviews note a slightly bland flavor, while others rave about the deliciousness and unique combinations like the Nutty Buddy and Oreo Sundae. Recent reviews also mention the availability of 97% Fat Free Soft Serve Ice Cream. The website details a comprehensive menu including various ice cream flavors, toppings, and specialty treats, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to customization and a nostalgic experience.

Tarrs Ice Cream Ltd is a Bristol-based, family-run ice cream manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1920. Known for its exceptional quality, particularly its award-winning vanilla ice cream, Tarrs offers a diverse range of products including scoops, lollies, tubs, liquid mixes, and ice cream cakes. Reviews consistently praise the deliciousness and traditional flavors, with many customers highlighting the nostalgic experience of enjoying Tarrs ice cream. However, some reviews express concerns about the limited flavor selection and higher prices compared to supermarket brands. Despite these criticisms, Tarrs maintains a loyal customer base and a strong reputation within the local community. The shop is a popular destination, especially during the Christmas season for ice cream cakes. The business has faced challenges with rising costs, but remains committed to its legacy of quality and craftsmanship. The company is proud of its 105-year history and its status as the nation’s best vanilla ice cream maker.

Panunzio’s Kitchen Gelati Italiani is a popular Bristol ice cream shop known for its authentic Italian gelato and sorbet. Reviews consistently praise the quality of the flavors, highlighting the use of premium ingredients and a dedication to traditional gelato-making techniques. While some customers mention occasional lines and a slightly higher price point, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the gelato as some of the best they’ve ever tasted. There are mixed reviews regarding portion sizes, with some noting that scoops can be smaller than expected. The shop is praised for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. The business has received numerous awards, including being European finalists in the Gelato World Masters 2025 competition, further cementing its reputation for excellence. A notable feature is the variety of flavors, including unique options like the Gelato Burger. Despite occasional complaints about pricing, the quality and taste consistently outweigh the cost for most customers. The shop has a strong online presence and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Swoon Gelato, located in Wapping Wharf, Bristol, is an artisan gelato business known for its high-quality ingredients and slow-churning process. Reviews consistently praise the rich, creamy texture and intense flavors of their gelato, with many highlighting the pistachio and dark chocolate varieties. While some customers have noted occasional issues with service and limited flavor availability, particularly during peak hours, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. The shop offers a variety of flavors, including seasonal specials and homemade gelato cakes, alongside hot and cold beverages. The website emphasizes the artisan approach, using Somerset milk and Sicilian pistachios, and explains the lower fat, higher flavor profile of gelato compared to traditional ice cream. They also offer gift cards and are open to inquiries for private parties.

Giuseppe Super Whip Ice Cream is a long-established ice cream van hire service based in Bristol, specializing in providing high-quality ice cream and a friendly service for a wide range of events. With over 35 years of experience, they offer a variety of options including the classic Mr Whippy, Tarr’s Ice Cream, and branded vans. Reviews consistently praise their value for money, delicious ice cream, and excellent customer service, highlighting the enjoyment of both children and adults. They are fully licensed and insured, and prioritize local sourcing. While they have a strong reputation, some reviews mention occasional issues with availability.

Chew Moo’s Ice Cream is a family-run farm and ice cream business located on Graylands Farm in Bristol. They specialize in producing high-quality, handmade ice cream and fruit ices using milk and cream from their herd of prize-winning Guernsey cows. The business offers a unique farm experience, a charming ice cream parlour, and their products are also available for wholesale distribution. Reviews consistently praise the delicious ice cream, often highlighting the rich Guernsey milk flavor and creative flavor combinations like chocolate and cherry, dark chocolate and salted caramel, and Ferrero Rocher. Many reviewers appreciate the farm setting, with the opportunity to see the animals and enjoy a relaxing day out. Some customers note the play area for children and the beautiful views. However, some reviews mention the parking can be challenging and the farm is a bit of a drive. The ice cream parlour itself is described as charming and welcoming. Overall, Chew Moo’s Ice Cream is a popular destination for families and ice cream enthusiasts alike, offering a delightful combination of quality products and a fun farm experience.

Ice Cream Man is a business with a deeply unsettling history, originating with a murdered ice cream vendor named Butch Brickle, known as "The Ice Cream King." Gregory Tudor inherited and repurposed Brickle’s parlor, transforming it into a macabre laboratory where he allegedly creates ice cream using human ingredients. A sequel project, "Ice Cream Man 2: Sundae Bloody Sundae," was attempted via Kickstarter but ultimately failed to secure sufficient funding. Reviews describe a dilapidated parlor with a dark and disturbing reputation, and the ice cream itself is rumored to be made with unsettling ingredients. While some reviewers praise the location and view, others express concerns about the quality and price. Despite the unsettling history and failed sequel attempt, the business maintains a cult following due to its connection to the 1995 horror film *Ice Cream Man*.