It’s definitely gelato season, and we’ve found a gorgeous little spot just outside Leeds selling some of the best around.
Called The Milk Churn, it's located in a little village called Scarcroft and is roughly a twenty-minute drive from the city centre. This spot is definitely well worth the trip, having received some rave reviews for its authentic and fresh Yorkshire gelato.
Everything here is made in the classic Italian style - different from ice cream in that it uses more milk and less cream, resulting in a richer and denser frozen dessert that has less air in it and be more full of flavour.
Making gelato is considered a serious art, especially in Italy (where the treat originates) where there are even gelato universities. And here at The Milk Churn, the milk and cream used in their gelato-making process come straight from the farm. It really doesn't get any fresher than this.
The team that makes the gelato here trained in Italy at the Gelato University in Bologna before bringing their skills home to Yorkshire.
As a result, the farm shop and gelato cafe has fast been developing a reputation for the "freshest and most delicious" ice cream in and around Leeds, pulling in some rave reviews online.
"It’s a spot that is quite unknown, but honestly if you love good ice cream, then get yourself there!" said one reviewer.
"The ice cream itself is hands down the creamiest around. Good quality ice cream at a reasonable price. The cones are proper waffle cones, and they also offer tubs if preferred. The variety of flavours is always second to none and you will always be stuck on at least 2 flavours!"
The variety here changes daily, which is perfect for those who want to get stuck in and try as many different types of gelato as possible - and there is also a range of lactose-free sorbettos on offer, perfect for vegans and anyone with a milk intolerance.
There's also a great little play area here for the kids / Image: Grace Newton
Sorbetto differs from sorbet in that it is served warmer and is silky smooth just like gelato - no crunchy ice crystals here.
The products here are branded ‘Tomoli’ in a sweet nod to the family connection behind it. The name is derived from the next generation of the family here, Thomas and Olivia who, it's hoped, will take the farm and the Milk Churn forward one day.
Typical flavours on offer tend to include blackcurrant, triple chocolate, honeycomb, orange, strawberry, vanilla and cookies and cream - but these change every day so you're always going to be in with a bit of a surprise.
Sorbetto flavours on offer, meanwhile, include mango, raspberry and strawberry and and mint.
Not only is there gorgeous gelato to be found here, it's also a great day out for the little ones as you can take them to meet the cows on the farm and even give them a stroke.
Plonk yourself down, either in the cafe inside or out in the garden on one of the picnic benches, and tuck into some of the finest frozen dessert this side of the Med - we promise, you won't regret it.
Find The Milk Churn on Beechgrove Farm in Scarcroft on Wetherby Road, LS14 3HQ.
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Georgina Pellant -
26th July 2021 
