SCOOP OF SUCCESS: HONITON ICE CREAM PARLOUR NAMED BEST IN BRITAIN -🍦
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
In a sweet triumph for East Devon, the Otter Valley Ice Cream & Field Kitchen in Honiton has been crowned Parlour of the Year at the prestigious 2024 Ice Cream Alliance Awards.
Nestled along the A30 with breathtaking views of the Otter Valley and Blackdown Hills, the family-run parlour has scooped the national title thanks to its rich heritage, artisan craftsmanship, and community spirit.
Owned and operated by the Bond family, the parlour began churning out handmade ice cream in 2009, using milk from their own cows on their fourth-generation dairy farm. What started as a small-scale venture has grown into a beloved destination, known for its slow-churned gelato and innovative flavours ranging from traditional Madagascan Vanilla to the more adventurous Seabuckthorn and Cream Tea.
In 2018, the family expanded their offering with the opening of the Otter Valley Field Kitchen - a fully-fledged café serving light lunches and wood-fired pizzas crafted with local, seasonal ingredients.
Speaking after the awards, the family said: “We are very honoured - this is the pinnacle of our career. We love the ice cream industry and all it represents. We’ll remember this night and what we’ve achieved for many years to come.”
Their success is rooted in dedication and quality. Trained by master gelato chefs in Italy, the Bonds have combined tradition with innovation, creating a menu that delights locals and tourists alike. Their excellence has not gone unnoticed, with multiple regional and national awards under their belt - and even the King and Queen among those who’ve had the pleasure of tasting their ice cream.
Beyond the kitchen, the family are active members of the community, regularly supporting charities and local initiatives. Their latest accolade celebrates not only their culinary skills but their unwavering commitment to local life.
“Hooray to Otter Valley!” the family cheered - and it’s a sentiment shared far and wide.
East Devon has a new regional treasure - and it’s best served on a cone.
( Photos: Otter Valley Ice Cream 📸 )
