Visit The Courtyard Dairy near Settle, Yorkshire Dales — taste award-winning artisan cheeses, enjoy tastings, and explore the Cheese Museum and café.

A Cheese Lover’s Paradise in the Yorkshire Dales

Tucked between Settle and Austwick in the scenic Yorkshire Dales, The Courtyard Dairy is an award-winning destination celebrating the art of traditional cheese-making.

Home to some of Britain’s best artisan cheeses, this independent dairy shop and museum is a must-visit for foodies, families, and anyone who believes cheese deserves its own day out!

The Story Behind The Courtyard Dairy

Founded by cheesemongers Andy and Kathy Swinscoe, The Courtyard Dairy was created to champion small British cheese producers. Every wheel sold here is hand-selected from farms using raw milk, traditional methods, and natural ageing.

Their passion for preserving heritage cheese-making has earned the dairy numerous awards — and a loyal following of cheese lovers across the UK.

Explore the Cheese Museum

Your visit begins with a journey through the Cheese Museum, a free exhibition that tells the story of how cheese has been made in Britain for centuries.

See antique tools and traditional equipment used by farmers and cheesemakers.

Learn how milk, bacteria, and time combine to create distinctive textures and flavours.

Discover how British cheese styles — from crumbly Lancashire to creamy Wensleydale — evolved through history.

The displays are interactive and easy to follow, making them ideal for all ages.

Taste & Shop Award-Winning Cheese

After learning the history, it’s time to taste the results! The Courtyard Dairy stocks over 30 farmhouse cheeses, each made by hand on small farms. You can:

Sample cheeses before you buy — from buttery brie to tangy blue.

Chat with the knowledgeable cheesemongers for pairing tips and flavour stories.

Pick up accompaniments like Yorkshire chutneys, crackers, and wines.

Every cheese has a story — and every bite celebrates true craftsmanship.

Enjoy the Café & Cheesemonger’s Kitchen

Head upstairs to the Cheesemonger’s Café, where the menu showcases locally sourced produce and, of course, cheese!
Try:

Cheese Toasties & Ploughman’s Platters – featuring farmhouse selections.

Baked Raclette & Fondue – melted cheese heaven.

Homemade Cheesecake & Coffee – the perfect sweet finish.

The café overlooks the Dales countryside, making it a beautiful spot for lunch or afternoon tea

See the full menu and booking details on The Courtyard Dairy’s official website

Cheese Tasting Events & Courses

The Courtyard Dairy hosts regular cheese tastings, workshops, and virtual events, where you can learn from expert affineurs (cheese agers).

Guided Tastings: Sample five or more cheeses with wine or cider pairings.

Cheese-Making Courses: Learn to craft your own cheese using traditional techniques.

Cheese & Wine Nights: Perfect for couples or food enthusiasts.

Booking is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

Local Produce & Gifts

Beyond cheese, you’ll find a handpicked selection of local artisan products, including:

Yorkshire honey, chutneys, and preserves.

Local gins, ciders, and craft beers.

Handmade cheeseboards, knives, and gift hampers — perfect for special occasions.

Food, Drink & Local Flavours

After your tour, enjoy a glass of cider in the farm courtyard café, serving local cheeses, charcuterie boards, and homemade apple cake. Pair your drink with a wedge of traditional West Country cheddar for the ultimate Somerset combination.

Getting There

Address: The Courtyard Dairy, Clapham, near Settle, North Yorkshire, LA2 8AS.

By car: Just off the A65; free on-site parking available.

By train: Settle Station (3 miles) or Clapham Station (2 miles).

By bus: Regular services between Skipton and Kirkby Lonsdale.

Opening Hours & Admission

Open throughout the week (hours vary seasonally)
Entry to the shop is free
The museum is included with your visit

Facilities
Specialist cheese shop
Cheese museum
Restaurant
Cheese production viewing area
Free parking
Accessible visitor facilities

Nearby Attractions
Ingleborough Cave — Spectacular limestone cave
Malham Cove — Dramatic limestone cliff and walking destination
Settle Carlisle Railway — One of Britain’s most scenic railway journeys
White Scar Cave — Britain’s longest show cave

Together, these attractions form part of the Yorkshire Dales Food and Heritage Trail.

Why Visit The Courtyard Dairy?

The The Courtyard Dairy experience offers:

Award-winning British farmhouse cheeses
Interactive cheese museum
Expert cheesemongers and tastings
Behind-the-scenes insight into cheese maturation

Whether you’re a passionate cheese lover, a foodie, or simply exploring the Yorkshire Dales, The Courtyard Dairy offers one of the UK’s most authentic artisan food experiences.
It’s not just a cheese shop — it’s a celebration of Britain’s farmhouse cheesemaking traditions and the skilled producers who keep them alive

See our guide to Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre for another Yorkshire cheese experience.
See our guide to Bettys Café Tea Rooms for a classic Yorkshire food and drink destination.