CARTMEL · INDEPENDENT SHOPS · LOCAL FOOD
Cartmel Cheeses: artisan cheesemonger in Unsworth’s Yard
For a distinctive food stop near the Lake District, Cartmel Cheeses is a specialist cheesemonger in the village of Cartmel. Rather than a general supermarket counter, it focuses on carefully chosen farmhouse cheeses, expert advice and maturing cheeses to bring out their character.
Reviewed 11 November 2026. This is a guide to visiting and shopping with the business, not a fixed product catalogue: cheeses, stock, opening times and delivery terms can change.
Where is Cartmel Cheeses?
| Address | 1 & 2 Unsworth’s Yard, Cartmel, Cumbria LA11 6PG |
|---|---|
| Monday–Saturday | 9.30am–5pm |
| Sunday | 10am–4.30pm |
| Telephone | 015395 34307 |
| Website | cartmelcheeses.co.uk |
| Location | In Unsworth’s Yard, close to Cartmel Priory and the village centre, just outside the National Park boundary |
These opening hours are published by the shop and may change on bank holidays or for special events. Check the official website before making a special journey.
Unsworth’s Yard is an appealing spot for browsing several independent food and drink businesses. The shop is suitable for a focused tasting and buying visit rather than a full-day attraction with scheduled tours.
What makes the cheese selection special?
Cartmel Cheeses specialises in small-batch British and Irish farmhouse cheeses, alongside selected cheeses from further afield. Cheeses are sourced from artisan makers and matured on site, with the team assessing each cheese’s age and flavour before sale. The emphasis is on direct relationships with cheesemakers and helping visitors choose a cheese that suits them.
Ask about different styles — rich blue, creamy soft, crumbly territorial, mature hard and washed-rind cheeses — rather than relying on a static ‘top five’ list. Some customers will prefer a mild cheeseboard; others may want an adventurous washed-rind or raw-milk selection. Stock changes seasonally.
Particularly local cheeses to ask about
- St James: A washed-rind ewe’s-milk cheese from Martin Gott and Nicola Robinson’s Holker Farm operation; availability varies
- Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire: A classic raw-milk Lancashire cheese, reported as a bestseller by the Cartmel village business listing
- Seasonal artisan selections: The shop works with producers throughout the UK, so ask staff what is at its best on the day
For accompanying food, the delicatessen section lists crackers, chutneys, preserves, charcuterie and other provisions. See the current online shop for the live selection.
The people behind Cartmel Cheeses
Cartmel Cheeses has built its reputation around personal relationships with cheesemakers, careful maturation and specialist advice. Its story is closely connected with the region’s independent food producers.
Specialist food-industry reporting describes Cartmel Cheeses as originally co-founded by cheesemaker Martin Gott and now run by Ian and Steph Robinson. The company was recognised as a Maker Support Champion in 2023 for its relationships with producers. Its reputation rests on choosing, caring for and selling distinctive farmhouse cheeses rather than manufacturing all the cheeses itself.
Read the 2023 Speciality Food profile and the shop’s own sourcing philosophy.
Can you order Cartmel Cheeses online?
Yes. The shop has an online store for individual cheeses, selections, delicatessen products, vouchers and Cheese Club subscriptions. For a gift, a curated selection or subscription can be more convenient than guessing individual styles.
Its current website says mail orders ship Monday to Thursday using an express 24/48-hour service and advertises free delivery on orders over £60. Delivery areas, charges and cut-off times should be checked during checkout. Do not rely on the old article’s promises about precise dispatch deadlines or Saturday deliveries.
Seasonal pizzas
The business has also advertised pizzas in Unsworth’s Yard on Friday and Saturday evenings in its March–October season. The published 2026 season ended on 31 October, so do not assume pizzas are available on winter evenings. Check the latest announcements for future dates.
Combine a visit with Cartmel village
Cartmel’s distinctive appeal is its compact village centre, traditional architecture and specialist food producers. The shop is within easy walking distance of Cartmel Priory and other independently run businesses in Unsworth’s Yard. It is outside the National Park boundary but a worthwhile food-focused stop for visitors in south Cumbria.
For another specialist food-shopping option inside the wider Lakes area, see our Keswick Cheese Deli listing. Explore our Lake District attractions or Places to Stay directory for a longer break.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cartmel Cheeses inside the Lake District National Park?
No. The shop is in Cartmel, just outside the National Park boundary in south Cumbria.
Can I buy cheese at the shop rather than online?
Yes. Visit 1 & 2 Unsworth’s Yard and ask staff for recommendations. Check holiday opening hours before travelling.
Does Cartmel Cheeses make its own cheese?
It is primarily an artisan cheesemonger selecting and maturing cheese sourced from specialist producers, rather than a single-farm manufacturer.
Does the shop offer a cheese subscription?
Yes. The Cheese Club offers subscriptions; check current box choices, cost and shipping conditions on the official site.
Do they sell cheese gifts?
Yes. The current website advertises selections and gift vouchers. Availability and prices can change.
Is the pizza service available all winter?
Not normally. The operator advertises seasonal Friday and Saturday evening pizzas, with its 2026 season ending in October.
Kath Beattie studied Journalism at The University of Central Lancashire and now writes for several Travel publications. She recently moved to The Lake District and enjoys walking her 3 dogs every day across the fells.
