Visit the Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre in Hawes, Yorkshire Dales — taste award-winning cheese, watch it being made, and explore local food heritage.

A Delicious Day Out in the Yorkshire Dales

In the heart of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre is a must-visit for food lovers and families alike. This working creamery, located in the charming market town of Hawes, is home to the world-famous Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese — made to a traditional recipe dating back over 1,000 years.

Here, you can see how the cheese is made, taste it fresh from the dairy, and enjoy a true slice of Yorkshire heritage.

The Home of Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese

Cheese-making in Wensleydale began with Cistercian monks in the 12th century and continues today at this award-winning creamery. Still made by hand using local milk from the Dales, Yorkshire Wensleydale has a smooth, crumbly texture and a subtle, creamy flavour.

At the Visitor Centre, you can watch skilled cheesemakers at work and learn how centuries of tradition blend with modern craftsmanship to create this beloved regional cheese.

What to See and Do
1. The Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese Experience

Step into the interactive Cheese Experience, where you’ll discover the fascinating journey of cheese — from field to plate.

Watch live demonstrations of cheese-making from the viewing gallery.

Explore interactive displays about local farming, sustainability, and dairy history.

Learn about Wallace & Gromit’s love for Wensleydale cheese — and snap a photo with the famous duo!

You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Yorkshire’s finest export.

2. Cheese Tasting & Shopping

No visit is complete without sampling the goods! The Cheese Shop offers over 20 varieties of handcrafted Wensleydale cheese, including classics like:

Yorkshire Wensleydale & Cranberries

Extra Mature Yorkshire Wensleydale

Smoked Wensleydale

Wensleydale Blue

You can taste them all before choosing your favourites to take home — along with local chutneys, biscuits, and hampers.

Eat at Calvert’s Restaurant & 1897 Coffee Shop

Enjoy a true farm-to-fork dining experience at the Creamery’s award-winning eateries:

Calvert’s Restaurant: Dishes inspired by Yorkshire flavours — from cheese soufflé to ploughman’s platters.

1897 Coffee Shop: Perfect for lighter bites, cakes, and artisan coffee with stunning views of the Dales.

The menus celebrate local ingredients, showcasing the best of regional produce alongside Wensleydale’s signature cheeses.

See dining options on Wensleydale Creamery’s official website

Family-Friendly Activities

The Visitor Centre is fun for all ages. Children can take part in hands-on cheese-making workshops, enjoy interactive displays, and follow the Dales Discovery Trail around the site. There’s also a gift shop filled with Yorkshire-themed treats, souvenirs, and Wallace & Gromit merchandise.

Events & Experiences

Throughout the year, Wensleydale Creamery hosts tasting events, food festivals, and seasonal celebrations, including:

Yorkshire Dales Cheese Festival

Christmas Cheese Fair

Easter family workshops

Check the event calendar before visiting for special experiences and demonstrations.

Getting There

The Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre is located in Hawes, North Yorkshire.

Address: Gayle Lane, Hawes, North Yorkshire, DL8 3RN.

By car: Follow the A684 through the Yorkshire Dales; free on-site parking available.

By train: Nearest station — Garsdale (10 miles away).

By bus: Local DalesBus services run from Leyburn and Richmond.

The journey through the Dales is part of the experience — with spectacular views of rolling hills and stone villages.

Why Visit Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre?

Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or a Wallace & Gromit fan, Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre offers a delicious, educational, and unforgettable Yorkshire experience.

Taste the cheese, meet the makers, and discover the heart of the Dales through its most iconic flavour.