French vs. English Cheese: The Best British Alternatives

With recent disruptions in the global cheese supply chain, it’s been a challenge to source some of our beloved French and Italian cheeses. While the issue is affecting imports, we’re excited to offer incredible British alternatives that rival their continental counterparts in both flavour and craftsmanship.

At Paxton & Whitfield, we’ve always prioritised quality, working with local cheesemakers who produce exceptional cheeses using traditional methods. So, while the sourcing of some French favourites may be temporarily uncertain, we’re here to introduce you to the finest British alternatives, each offering a unique and unforgettable taste experience.

Brie de Meaux vs. Baron Bigod

Baron Bigod is often described as the perfect British alternative to the classic Brie de Meaux. Made in Suffolk by Fen Farm Dairy, this cheese is crafted from the milk of their own herd of Montbéliarde cows. The curds are hand ladled into moulds using traditional pelle-à-brie ladles, before being matured to perfection. The result is a creamy, velvety texture with a slightly chalky centre and a warm, milky flavour with delicate mushroom notes. Perfect for lovers of Brie de Meaux, this British creation truly stands out.

Camembert de Normandie vs. Tunworth

If you’ve been missing the rich and creamy flavours of Camembert de Normandie, we have just the solution—Tunworth. Made to a Camembert recipe, Tunworth is an award-winning British cheese with a thin, bloomy rind and an intense, long-lasting flavour. With earthy notes of brassica and porcini, it’s the perfect alternative to its French counterpart. Whether baked or enjoyed on a cheeseboard, Tunworth never disappoints. Chef Raymond Blanc has even called it "Best Camembert in the World."

Roquefort vs. Lanark Blue

For those who adore the bold, tangy flavours of Roquefort, we highly recommend Lanark Blue—Scotland’s answer to the famous French blue. Made by Selina Errington and her team in Carnwath, Lanark, this ewe's milk cheese is produced from the milk of their own 450-strong flock of sheep. Lanark Blue is rich, full-bodied, and slightly sweet, with the piquant tang of blue cheese. A perfect alternative for Roquefort lovers, it offers depth and complexity that’s equally bold and delicious.

St Marcellin and St Felicien vs. St Jude

If you love the creamy, gooey texture of St Marcellin or St Felicien, you’ll find St Jude to be an absolute delight. Made with raw milk by Julie Cheney in Norfolk, this soft cheese is rich, creamy, and full of character. Its subtle tang and indulgent texture make it a perfect addition to any cheeseboard.

Pont L’Eveque vs. Yarlington

For fans of washed rind cheeses like Pont L’Eveque, we recommend Yarlington. Made in the Cotswolds, this beautifully creamy cheese is washed in Yarlington cider as part of a collaboration between Kingstone Dairy and Oliver’s Cider. Its distinctive tang and creamy texture make it a standout choice for lovers of Normandy-style cheeses.

Pouligny St Pierre and Valencay vs. Sinodun Hill

If you adore Pouligny St Pierre and Valencay, Sinodun Hill is the perfect British alternative. Made by Norton & Yarrow in rural Wales, this light, moussey pyramid of goat's cheese offers a creamy texture and delicate flavour that’s perfect for any goat cheese enthusiast.

The Splendid British Cheeseboard

To celebrate the best of British cheesemaking, we’ve curated The Splendid British Cheeseboard. Featured on BBC Radio 4, this collection includes four exceptional soft cheeses:

• Baron Bigod

• St Jude

• Yarlington

• Sinodun Hill

Each cheese embodies the finest British traditions, with unique flavours that make them the perfect alternatives to French classics. These British cheeses offer a taste of the finest craftsmanship and will delight cheese lovers looking for something new and exciting.

While the challenges with sourcing French and Italian cheeses may temporarily affect availability, Paxton & Whitfield is committed to providing only the best alternatives. Our British cheeses offer a wealth of flavour and craftsmanship, ensuring your cheeseboard remains as impressive as ever. The Splendid British Cheeseboard is a perfect example of this, offering four cheeses that showcase the best of what Britain has to offer. So, next time you're seeking the perfect cheese, look no further than our incredible British selections.