In recent years, London has evolved into a vibrant playground for dessert lovers, especially those with a passion for ice cream. No longer confined to basic vanilla or supermarket tubs, the city’s ice cream scene is bursting with flavour, innovation, and international influence.
From luxury gelaterias to quirky nitrogen-powered parlours, ice cream companies across the capital are redefining what a frozen dessert can be. This blog explores the very best of them the top 10 ice cream companies in London while also delving into what makes this city such a compelling destination for creamy, cold indulgence.
What Makes London a Global Ice Cream Destination?
London’s ice cream renaissance is largely driven by its diverse cultural influences and the city’s never-ending appetite for culinary experimentation. You can find Italian-style gelato made using traditional recipes, dairy-free options that cater to health-conscious and vegan consumers, and ultra-modern dessert bars that use liquid nitrogen to flash-freeze ice cream before your eyes.
There is a growing emphasis on natural ingredients and ethical sourcing. Consumers today are not just interested in taste; they also want to know where their food comes from. That demand has given rise to artisan producers who craft ice cream in small batches, often experimenting with flavour combinations and presentation styles that are both innovative and visually appealing.
Social media has played a surprising role in this shift. Many of London’s popular ice cream companies have become known not only for flavour but also for how “Instagrammable” their desserts are think rainbow cones, charcoal soft serve, and rose-shaped gelato. London is not just serving ice cream; it’s serving edible experiences.
What Are the Top 10 Ice Cream Companies in London?
1. Gelupo – “Real Italian Gelato, Made in Soho”
Gelupo offers a true taste of Italy in the heart of Soho. Founded by chef Jacob Kenedy of Bocca di Lupo fame, this artisan gelateria brings authentic Italian craftsmanship to London’s dessert scene. The shop uses traditional churning techniques and premium ingredients sourced from both the UK and Italy to create a dense, creamy texture.
Their ever-changing menu includes popular flavours like bitter chocolate sorbet and ricotta with sour cherry, which are made fresh daily on-site. Gelupo isn’t just a summer treat.
it stays open late, offering locals and tourists alike a delightful post-dinner destination. With its bright interiors and reputation for depth of flavour, Gelupo stands out as one of the most genuine gelato experiences in the city.
Signature Treat
Traditional gelato made with seasonal ingredients.
Ideal For
Late-night indulgence seekers in central London.
Pricing: Small cup from £3.50; larger servings and tubs available.
- Website: https://www.gelupo.com
- Phone: +44 20 7287 5555
- Address: 7 Archer St, Soho, London W1D 7AU
- Email: info@gelupo.com
Review: ★★★★★
“The flavours are bold, rich and incredibly authentic it felt like a trip to Rome in a cone.”
2. Chin Chin Labs – “Ice Cream Made with Liquid Nitrogen”
Chin Chin Labs, based in Camden, is not your average ice cream shop. As Europe’s first liquid nitrogen ice cream parlour, it blends science and indulgence to create ultra-smooth textures and out-of-the-box flavours. The ice cream is frozen instantly in front of customers, creating a theatrical fog that’s part of the experience.
Their most popular offerings include burnt butter caramel and a velvety vegan chocolate that’s beloved even by non-vegans. The desserts are often topped with torched marshmallow or brownie soil, making each serving a visual and gastronomic treat. Chin Chin Labs is bold, innovative, and always pushing the boundaries of what ice cream can be.
Signature Style
Futuristic, flash-frozen ice cream with gourmet toppings.
Best Suited To
Dessert adventurers and Instagram enthusiasts.
Pricing: Cups start at £4.95; custom toppings extra.
- Website: https://www.chinchinicecream.com
- Address: 49-50 Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF
- Email: hi@chinchinicecream.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“The nitrogen trick is cool, but the flavours really seal the deal — decadent and unforgettable.”
3. Udderlicious – “Made with Love and Community Votes”
Udderlicious is a London-born ice cream parlour that takes a playful and personal approach to its flavours. Each month, customers are invited to suggest and vote on new creations, which keeps the menu fresh and engaging.
Located in Islington and Covent Garden, this family-friendly shop crafts all its ice creams in small batches using locally sourced ingredients. Their offerings include both dairy and vegan options, catering to a wide range of dietary needs.
The shop’s whimsical decor and fun, flavour-first philosophy make it a hit with kids and adults alike, cementing its status as a true neighbourhood gem.
Flavour Focus
Creative crowd-sourced recipes with seasonal rotations.
Great For
Families and those with a sweet tooth for innovation.
Pricing: From £3.80 per scoop; tasting flights available.
- Website: https://www.udderlicious.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7359 7777
- Address: 24 Earlham St, London WC2H 9LN, United Kingdom
- Email: raj@udderlicious.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“A fun, family-friendly spot where every scoop feels like a surprise — love the community vibe!”
4. Snowflake Gelato – “Luxury in Every Lick”
Snowflake is the epitome of indulgence, offering award-winning gelato in upscale locations like Selfridges. Their gelato is made with organic milk and fresh ingredients imported from Italy, ensuring premium quality in every bite. Unlike traditional ice cream, Snowflake’s gelato is churned slowly, resulting in a denser, silkier texture.
Their flavours range from the classic stracciatella to unique creations like raspberry ripple cheesecake. Snowflake has garnered numerous Great Taste Awards and continues to push boundaries with collaborations and seasonal specials, proving that luxury can also be deliciously approachable.
Premium Touch
Award-winning gelato crafted with organic, high-quality ingredients.
Perfect If You’re After
Elegant, gourmet dessert experiences in high-end locations.
Pricing: Small from £3.95; premium flavours and toppings extra.
- Website: https://www.snowflakegelato.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7402 2885
- Address: 68B Old Brompton Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3LQ
- Email: info@snowflakegelato.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Rich, smooth and absolutely luxurious — the pistachio flavour is to die for.”
5. Amorino – “Where Gelato Meets Art”
Amorino has turned gelato into an art form with its signature rose-shaped scoops. This international brand has multiple locations across London and prides itself on authentic Italian recipes, free from artificial flavours or colourings. Amorino’s menu boasts a wide range of options, including organic sorbets, gluten-free gelato, and even macarons filled with gelato.
The visual presentation alone is enough to draw crowds, but the smooth, flavourful gelato ensures repeat visits. It’s the perfect combination of style and substance for those who want a treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Artisanal Flair
Beautifully crafted rose-shaped gelato with elegant flavours.
Recommended For
Aesthetic lovers and food photographers alike.
Pricing: Regular cones from £4.20; premium toppings extra.
- Website: https://www.amorino.com
- Phone: +44 20 7434 3244
- Address: 41 Old Compton St, Soho, London W1D 6HF
- Email: customerservice@amorino.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Absolutely stunning presentation and it tastes even better than it looks!”
6. La Gelatiera – “Bold Flavours, Traditional Craft”
La Gelatiera is a boutique gelato brand that’s quietly built a reputation for pushing flavour boundaries while respecting traditional Italian techniques. Located in Covent Garden and East London, this award-winning shop is known for its slow-churned, small-batch gelato made with ethically sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Flavours like basil and chilli, honey and rosemary, and bergamot and lemon showcase their commitment to innovation. Their process involves a careful blend of science and passion, resulting in a smooth, dense texture and well-balanced sweetness. La Gelatiera’s interior is modern and minimal, letting the product take centre stage. It’s a haven for purists and adventurous eaters alike.
Standout Element
Slow-churned gelato with rare, handcrafted flavour combinations.
Best Matched For
Gelato connoisseurs with a taste for the unexpected.
Pricing: From £4.20 per scoop; tasting flights and takeaway tubs available.
- Website: https://www.lagelatiera.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7242 3211
- Address: 27 New Row, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4LA
- Email: info@lagelatiera.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“You won’t find these flavours anywhere else — their basil and chilli gelato blew my mind!”
7. Soft Serve Society – “London’s Coolest Soft Serve”
In the trendy heart of Shoreditch, Soft Serve Society delivers a bold take on traditional soft serve. Their menu includes options like black vanilla charcoal, matcha green tea, and unicorn sundaes topped with edible glitter and boba pearls. The shop has become a hotspot for foodies and Instagram influencers, thanks to its visual appeal and adventurous spirit.
Vegan options are always available, and the ice cream is served in crisp waffle cones or layered parfait-style cups. Soft Serve Society doesn’t just serve ice cream; it serves a whole vibe un, experimental, and unapologetically extra.
Unique Feature
Trendy soft serve with global flavour influences and viral visuals.
Ideal Choice For
Those craving a playful, Instagram-worthy dessert experience.
Pricing: From £4.50; toppings and extras available for customisation.
- Website: https://www.softservesociety.com
- Phone: +44 20 7033 4282
- Address: 1st Floor, 45 Boxpark, Shoreditch, London E1 6GY
- Email: info@softservesociety.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Super creative flavours and the charcoal cone is a must-try also surprisingly delicious!”
8. Oddono’s Gelati – “True Italian Gelato Since 2004”
Oddono’s is one of London’s most established gelato institutions, having served the city since 2004. What began in South Kensington has expanded to several locations across the city. Oddono’s prides itself on authenticity every batch of gelato is made fresh daily, using Italian techniques and natural ingredients.
You won’t find pre-mixes or shortcuts here. Classic flavours like hazelnut, pistachio, and stracciatella are consistently excellent, while their seasonal specials often include British produce. The minimalist decor and efficient service make this a quick, delicious stop for gelato lovers who value flavour over flash.
Craft Quality
Classic Italian gelato made fresh daily without artificial additives.
Recommended For
Those who appreciate consistency, quality, and tradition.
Pricing: Starting at £3.90 per scoop; larger portions and tubs also available.
- Website: https://www.oddonos.com
- Phone: +44 20 7581 1332
- Address: 14 Bute St, South Kensington, London SW7 3EX
- Email: info@oddonos.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Creamy, smooth and totally authentic — I’ve been coming here for years and it never disappoints.”
9. Nardulli – “A Slice of Italy in South London”
Tucked away in Clapham Common, Nardulli is a charming, family-run gelateria that has quietly become a local legend. Since opening in 2001, the shop has been committed to serving traditional Italian gelato made fresh every day using time-honoured methods and high-quality ingredients.
The owner, originally from Puglia, brings authenticity to every flavour whether it’s the silky pistachio, refreshing lemon sorbet, or decadent tiramisu. Nardulli’s small size and homely atmosphere only add to its charm, attracting both loyal regulars and curious tourists exploring South London.
Unlike many chains, this place offers a truly personal touch, and its consistently long queues are a testament to the quality and love poured into every scoop. Despite its simplicity, Nardulli delivers a rich, creamy experience that feels like a brief escape to an Italian piazza.
Defining Quality
Authentic Italian gelato made daily with family recipes.
Ideal Spot For
Locals seeking a genuine gelato experience away from central crowds.
Pricing: Cups start at £3.50; cones and takeaway tubs available.
- Website: https://www.nardulligelato.com
- Phone: +44 20 7720 4314
- Address: 29 The Pavement, Clapham Common, London SW4 0JE
- Email: info@nardulligelato.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Feels like home every time. The pistachio is incredibly smooth and tastes just like it does in Italy.”
10. Venchi – “Where Gelato Meets Chocolate”
Venchi is an Italian chocolatier that brings the same level of luxury to its gelato. Located near Oxford Street, their London flagship store is a feast for the senses, with walls of flowing chocolate and rich, velvety gelato served in elegant cones and cups. The gelato is made with natural ingredients, often incorporating Venchi’s signature chocolate into the mix.
Flavours like Cremino, gianduja, and dark chocolate are standouts, especially when combined with their chocolate sauces or crunchy toppings. If you’re a chocoholic looking for a refined, indulgent ice cream experience, Venchi delivers on every level.
Decadent Detail
Italian gelato infused with premium chocolate for a luxe dessert.
Best Option For
Chocolate lovers who appreciate gourmet presentation.
Pricing: Premium pricing from £5+ per serving.
- Website: https://www.venchi.com
- Phone: +44 20 7493 8969
- Address: 98-100 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1ER
- Email: customerservice@venchi.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Heaven for chocolate fans it’s like biting into a truffle, but frozen!”
What Factors Should You Consider Before Choosing a London Ice Cream Spot?
Choosing where to get your next scoop in London depends on several key considerations. Dietary preferences are often the first concern those who are vegan or lactose intolerant will want to prioritise places like Yorica! or Udderlicious. If you’re looking for authenticity and craftsmanship, Gelupo and Oddono’s offer a traditional Italian experience.
Presentation might also influence your choice. Amorino and Soft Serve Society deliver show-stopping designs, perfect for social sharing. For adventurous palates, Chin Chin Labs and La Gelatiera provide unconventional flavours that push the boundaries of what ice cream can be. Ultimately, the best spot for you will blend flavour, texture, location, and a little bit of fun.
Why Are Ice Cream Companies Thriving in London’s Food Scene?
The rise of ice cream companies in London is no accident. it’s the result of shifting consumer trends, increased demand for premium desserts, and a highly diverse population that appreciates both traditional and experimental flavours. As more Londoners seek unique culinary experiences, ice cream has emerged as a canvas for creativity.
From vegan-friendly options to nitrogen-frozen scoops, dessert lovers are no longer satisfied with just a “99 Flake.” London’s food scene encourages businesses to be bold, inclusive, and ethically conscious qualities that many modern ice cream companies now embody. This cultural shift has turned a simple summer treat into a year-round culinary event, where every cone tells a story.
What Should You Look for in a Great Ice Cream Company in London?
Not all ice cream is created equal, especially in a city with as many options as London. A great ice cream company should start with high-quality, natural ingredients whether dairy-based or plant-based. Consistency in texture and flavour is a must, but innovation also plays a key role. Many of the city’s top parlours create their own recipes and rotate seasonal flavours to keep things exciting.
It’s also important to consider dietary inclusivity today’s best brands offer vegan, dairy-free, or allergen-friendly options. Ambience and presentation matter, too. Whether it’s a minimalist gelateria or a vibrant, Instagram-worthy dessert bar, the overall customer experience is part of what elevates a good ice cream shop to a great one.
Is Artisan Ice Cream Worth the Price in London?
Artisan ice cream in London often comes with a higher price tag compared to mass-produced alternatives, but many argue it’s well worth it. These companies focus on craftsmanship, using traditional churning methods, organic ingredients, and small-batch production to ensure every scoop is of exceptional quality.
The difference is evident in both flavour and texture artisan ice creams tend to be richer, smoother, and more balanced. They also tend to avoid artificial preservatives, opting instead for fresh fruits, premium chocolate, and even herbs or spices.
While a basic cone from a supermarket may cost less, artisan offerings provide an elevated experience that aligns with the city’s growing demand for gourmet, authentic, and ethically made food.
Conclusion
There’s no single answer to which ice cream company is the best in London. it all comes down to what you value in a dessert. If you want authenticity, Gelupo and Oddono’s are front-runners. For novelty and presentation, Chin Chin Labs and Soft Serve Society shine. And if you’re seeking inclusivity, Yorica! leads the way in allergen-free indulgence.
London is one of the few cities where you can explore this wide a spectrum of ice cream experiences often within walking distance of each other. So why not taste your way through the list and discover your personal favourite?
FAQs About Ice Cream Companies in London
What sets London’s artisan ice cream apart from supermarket brands?
Artisan ice cream in London is made in small batches, often using fresh, high-quality ingredients without artificial additives. The texture and flavour are richer and more refined.
Are there dairy-free options in most London ice cream shops?
Yes, many London ice cream companies offer dairy-free and vegan-friendly options, especially at places like Yorica!, Udderlicious, and Soft Serve Society.
Which ice cream company in London is most family-friendly?
Udderlicious is especially popular with families due to its welcoming vibe and creative, rotating flavours chosen by customers.
Is it easy to find allergen-free ice cream in London?
Yes, thanks to shops like Yorica!, which cater specifically to allergy sufferers by removing dairy, nuts, gluten, and eggs from their recipes.
What’s the difference between gelato and soft serve?
Gelato is denser and creamier due to less air being incorporated, while soft serve is lighter and often served at a slightly warmer temperature for a smooth texture.
Do these ice cream companies operate year-round?
Most do, though hours may be reduced in winter. Some smaller or seasonal outlets may close temporarily during colder months.
Can I order from these shops online?
Many ice cream companies in London offer delivery via services like Deliveroo and Uber Eats, and brands like Yorica! also provide online ordering options.