Nestled in the sleepy Somerset village of Ditcheat, a humble community shop has achieved the extraordinary, being crowned the UK's very best cheese shop and beating the country's supermarket giants to the title.
The Village Grocer, a true bolthole of artisan produce, has been named 'Cheese Shop of the Year' at the prestigious British Cheese Awards 2024. Its crowning glory? A legendary Montgomery's Cheddar that has been declared the absolute best in Britain.
A David vs Goliath Story
This isn't just any award. The tiny deli triumphed over a formidable shortlist that included heavyweight national retailers, proving that when it comes to quality and expertise, small-scale and specialist knowledge can reign supreme.
The shop's star product, the Montgomery's Cheddar, was also awarded the coveted 'Best British Cheese' title. Judges were blown away by its complex, nutty flavour and perfect crumbly yet creamy texture—a testament to traditional cheesemaking methods that mass producers simply cannot replicate.
More Than Just Cheese
But the accolades didn't stop there. The Village Grocer also scooped awards for its exceptional Stilton and a delightful goat's cheese, making it a veritable treasure trove for fromage aficionados.
Located on the village's main street, the shop is the heart of the Ditcheat community. It serves as the local post office and a vital hub for residents, who are now bursting with pride at their shop's national recognition.
A Destination for Foodies
The awards have put this tiny Somerset village firmly on the map for food lovers across the UK. Visitors are now making special pilgrimages to Ditcheat, not for a famous landmark, but to sample and purchase what experts have declared to be the finest cheese Britain has to offer.
It's a powerful reminder of the unparalleled quality that can be found in local, independent shops, and a delicious victory for tradition and taste over scale and convenience.
