Bristol’s best ice cream parlors to try this summer

Bristol is a beautiful city to explore in the sun, but ice cream always makes a day even brighter. Take a look at this list of well-known stores and hidden gems to help you decide where to get your next frozen fix.

Swoon Gelato

The famous Swoon Ice Cream Parlor is located at the bottom of Park Street opposite College Green. Gelato’s creamy texture comes from the way the dessert is made, mixing slowly rather than whipping quickly to make ice cream.

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The ingredients are a blend of local and authentic produce from Italy, with milk from Somerset and pistachios from Sicily. Vegan visitors can indulge in the dark chocolate and raspberry sorbetto on offer.

Available gelato flavors are Madagascar Vanilla, Pistachio, Chocolate Brownie, Hazelnut, Bacio (Chocolate Hazelnut), Amarena Cherry Cheesecake and Salted Caramel. There are also guest flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

The salon has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google. One reviewer, who gave a five-star rating, said: “Bristol’s best ice cream! The cup sizes are quite large and the price is right for being in the heart of the city centre”.

Another reviewer, who also gave a five-star rating, said: “The seats inside offered a fantastic view of the open greenery, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. If you’re in Bristol and looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss Swoon Gelato.”

Chew Moo’s

Located on the Dundry Hills in Chew Magna is Chew Moo’s, a family run farm offering an impressive range of ice cream flavours. Open Friday and Saturday, this is perfect for a weekend treat.

According to their website, the flavors change weekly in the salon. The ice cream is made with milk from the farm’s award-winning Guernsey cows.

Enjoy the beautiful views when you visit, including the Chew Valley Lakes and, on a sunny day, Wales! There are public footpaths on the farm and the car park offers free parking.

Chew Moo’s has 4.8 stars on Google reviews. One reviewer wrote: “A great selection of ice cream. Friendly service. There is animal feed for 50p a bag to feed the goats and pigs and a playground for the children.”

Another reviewer said: “Great little ice cream shop. The ice cream is made with fresh milk and tastes great and feels like it has no preservatives.”

Panunzio’s Kitchen Italian Gelati

Located on Cotham Hill, just a stone’s throw from Clifton Down Station, is Panunzio’s on Cotham Hill. Their award-winning Italian gelato is made from fresh organic milk and cream.

A range of unique flavors are available, including black cherries and an intriguing ricotta cheese and caramelized figs. They have a 4.9 star rating on Google, with one reviewer writing, “I come here a lot. The flavors here are incredible.”

Another visitor wrote: “Wonderful family business. If you want quality ice cream, this is the place.”

Happy Cow

The Happy Cow is a plant based/vegan Whippy ice cream van based in Narrow Quay on the Harbourside. On request, they are also available for private hire and event bookings.

With 4.8 stars on Google reviews, this is definitely one to try for those on a plant-based diet. One reviewer wrote: “You’re kidding me a vegan Whippy ice cream! You can also choose your own combination of sauce and toppings, which takes it to another level.”

Another reviewer said: “Amazing vegan ice cream! My dairy-eating friend thought it was amazing.”

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