Best Ice Cream Shops in Holywood

Mauds Ice Creams Holywood is a relatively new addition to the popular Mauds Ice Cream chain, quickly gaining a reputation for exceptional ice cream. It’s a small but well-regarded parlor offering a classic ice cream experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Customer reviews consistently praise the quality of the ice cream, particularly the ‘Poor Bear’ flavor (a honeycomb ice cream), and describe the staff as ‘nice and helpful.’ The Holywood location is noted as ‘quite new’ and ‘cool,’ but also lacking in character, described as feeling like a ‘shell’ rather than a welcoming space for lingering. Seating is adequate but limited. The parlor offers a diverse selection of ice cream flavors, including Chocolate & Mallow, Chocolate Fudge, Irish Atlantic Sea Salted Caramel, Raspberry, Turkish Delight, and many more, alongside sundaes, waffles, tray bakes, and Bailies Coffee. It’s a recent addition to the Mauds chain and is committed to providing a premium vegan ice cream experience, offering a range of delicious plant-based flavors alongside traditional options. Mauds Ice Creams has a strong history of success, having won prestigious awards and establishing itself as a beloved brand across Northern Ireland.

Morelli Holywood is a well-established ice cream shop with a significant presence across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, operating as a franchise. Known for its traditional Italian-style gelato and a wide variety of flavors, the business has expanded considerably since its origins. It offers both classic and unique flavors, catering to a broad range of tastes. While praised for its quality and extensive locations, some reviews note higher prices and smaller portions. Concerns have been raised regarding the environmental impact of single-use plastics, with some customers expressing disappointment about the lack of biodegradable options. Despite these criticisms, Morelli Holywood maintains a strong reputation for friendly service and a diverse product selection. The DiVito family remains actively involved in the business's operations, continuing the legacy of quality gelato production.