Categories > Guides and Tips
12 Best Spots to Get the Best Ice Cream in Manchester
Black Milk, Northern Quarter
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Address: 88 Oldham St, Manchester M4 1LF, UK
Opening Hours:
- Thur 10AM-11PM
- Fri 12PM-11PM
- Sat 10AM-6PM
- Sun 10AM-9PM
Contact: +44 161 258 6513
For a truly indulgent treat, head to Black Milk in the Northern Quarter (manchester northern quarter); this place is a treasure trove of sweet delights, specialising in outrageously good ice cream with a side of whimsy. The interior is as funky as their menu, with a laid-back vibe that invites you to chill and enjoy.
Each scoop is a creamy dream, and the toppings are next-level – think gooey brownies, fluffy marshmallows, and even cereal crunch. They’re big on innovation here, so expect flavours that twist the classic and surprise your taste buds.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Black Milk is the perfect spot to satiate your cravings and dive into a bowl of pure joy.
| Pro tip: Can’t decide what to get? Opt for their flight of mini scoops. It’s the perfect way to sample multiple flavours and find your new favourite. |
Ginger’s Comfort Emporium
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Address: Afflecks, 35-39 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JG, UK
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Sat 10:30AM-6PM
- Sun 11AM-5PM
Contact: +44 7980 628861
Ginger’s Comfort Emporium isn’t just an ice cream shop; it’s a sanctuary for the senses. Located in the eclectic Afflecks, this spot offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream.
Each scoop is crafted with love and imagination, resulting in flavours that are both bold and comforting. The atmosphere is just as inviting, with a quirky charm that reflects the creativity of their menu.
Here, you can find everything from classic favourites to daring new combinations that’ll make your taste buds dance. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss.
| Pro tip: Their menu is always evolving, so don’t be afraid to ask for the latest and greatest flavour – you might just discover your new obsession. |
Ben & Jerry’s, Trafford Centre
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Address: Stretford, Manchester M17 8AA, UK
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-8PM
Contact: +44 161 749 1720
When it comes to classic ice cream goodness, Ben & Jerry’s at the Trafford Centre is a crowd-pleaser. This scoop shop is a little slice of heaven for anyone who loves their ice cream packed with personality and chunks.
The familiar favourites are all here, served up with a smile and a sprinkle of fun. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of shopping or to treat yourself to a well-deserved indulgence.
The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the staff are as sweet as the treats they serve. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious first-timer, Ben & Jerry’s delivers a scoop of joy that’s sure to make your day.
| Pro tip: They often have exclusive flavours that you won’t find in stores, so be sure to ask what’s new when you visit! |
Grandpa Greene’s
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Address: Ward Ln, Diggle, Oldham OL3 5JT, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 9:30AM-5PM
Contact: +44 1457 872547
Grandpa Greene’s is not just an ice cream spot; it’s a local legend. This family-run business has been churning out homemade ice cream for generations, using secret family recipes that have stood the test of time.
Each scoop is a blend of tradition and taste, with flavours ranging from the comforting classics to the delightfully unexpected. The atmosphere is cosy and welcoming, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cone with friends and family.
And it’s not just the ice cream that’s top-notch – their sundaes are a towering triumph of sweetness, sure to satisfy even the most demanding of dessert lovers. A visit to Grandpa Greene’s is a must for any ice cream aficionado.
| Pro tip: Make sure to try their signature flavour. It’s a closely guarded secret and a taste you won’t find anywhere else! |
Sweet!, Northern Quarter
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Address: 9 Stevenson Square, Manchester M1 1DB, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Wed – Sun 11AM-8PM
Sweet! in the Northern Quarter is the city’s go-to spot for a quick, delightful treat. This charming little shop is bursting with character, offering a wide variety of ice cream flavours to suit every palate.
From the rich and creamy to the light and fruity, each scoop is a celebration of flavour. The staff are friendly and passionate about their craft, always ready to offer a recommendation or a sample of something new.
The shop’s vibrant, playful decor makes every visit a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing sorbet on a hot day or a decadent gelato for a sweet indulgence, Sweet! has got you covered.
| Pro tip: Check out their vegan and dairy-free options! They’re just as delicious as the traditional scoops and perfect for those with dietary restrictions. |
A Few Scoops
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Address: Box on the Docks, Salford M50 2LH, United Kingdom
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Thur 12PM-8PM
- Fri 9AM-5PM
- Sat 10AM-10PM
- Sun 10AM-8PM
A Few Scoops is a unique addition to Manchester’s ice cream scene, offering an innovative twist on the classic dessert. This mobile ice cream parlour specialises in alcohol-infused scoops, blending premium spirits with fresh, quality ingredients.
The result is an adult take on a childhood favourite, with flavours that are both sophisticated and delightfully playful. The van itself is a sight to behold, with its retro design and colourful decor.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to chat about their latest creations or suggest the perfect pairing. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to kick off a night out or a novel dessert option for your next event, A Few Scoops has got you covered.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their cocktail-inspired creations. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy your favourite drinks in a whole new way! |
Oasis Ice Cream, Chorlton
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Address: 109 Manchester Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 9GA, United Kingdom
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Thur 2PM-10PM
- Fri – Sat 12PM-11PM
- Sun 12PM-10:30PM
Contact: +44 161 861 8837
Headed to Oasis Ice Cream in Chorlton, you’re in for a treat; it’s cosy, welcoming, and feels like your local from the moment you step in. The staff are brilliant — always ready with a smile and keen to help you choose from a smashing array of flavours.
Craving a classic like mint choc chip? Sorted. In the mood for something more exotic; they’ve got flavours that’ll whisk your taste buds away.
And if you’re watching the waistline or have dietary needs, no worries; they offer sorbets and low-fat options too. Next time you’re in Chorlton and fancy a scoop — or three — pop by Oasis; it’s the cool spot where the vibe’s as sweet as the ice cream.
| Pro tip: They often have seasonal specials, so ask what’s new and enjoy the freshest flavours based on the time of year. |
Frurt, City Centre
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Address: Frurt Peter Street – 63 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5PB
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-11:45PM
Contact: 0161 832 4987
Frurt in the City Centre is where health meets happiness. This spot specialises in frozen joghurt, offering a lighter, tangy alternative to traditional ice cream.
Their fro-yo is made with real, fresh ingredients, and you can taste the quality in every spoonful. The place buzzes with a vibrant, modern vibe, perfect for a quick, refreshing break from the city hustle.
With a rainbow of toppings from fresh fruits to indulgent chocolates, you can customise your treat to suit your mood. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free snack or a decadent dessert, Frurt has got you covered.
| Pro tip: Try their seasonal fruit toppings. They’re always fresh and provide the perfect zesty kick to your fro-yo. |
The Ice Cream Farm, Cheshire
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Address: Drumlan Hall, Newton Ln, Cheshire, Chester CH3 9NE, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 9:30AM-5PM
Contact: +44 800 133 7000
A bit of a drive from Manchester, but worth every mile, The Ice Cream Farm in Cheshire is an adventure for the whole family. This isn’t just an ice cream parlour; it’s a full-blown attraction with play areas, animals, and, of course, an incredible array of ice cream.
With over 50 flavours, there’s something here to make everyone smile. The farm makes their ice cream with milk from their own cows, and you can taste the freshness.
It’s creamy, it’s delicious, and it’s set in the beautiful Cheshire countryside. A trip here is a day out in itself, offering fun, frolics, and, most importantly, fantastic ice cream.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their signature flavour – it’s always something unique and made with the freshest ingredients from the farm. |
Icestone Gelato, City Centre
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Address: 131 Oxford Rd, Manchester M1 7DY, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 2PM-12AM
Contact: +44 161 273 4666
If you’re in Manchester’s City Centre and hankering for some top-notch gelato, Icestone Gelato is a worthy destination! This spot is a dessert lover’s paradise, boasting an impressive array of gelato flavours that are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to eat.
The gelato here is made with a passion for quality and creativity, resulting in smooth, rich, and creamy treats that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with a contemporary design that makes it a cool spot to hang out with friends.
From classic flavours to inventive new twists, Icestone Gelato offers a delightful experience for anyone looking to indulge in some authentic, artisanal gelato.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye out for their dessert specials – they often pair their fabulous gelato with other sweet treats for an over-the-top indulgence that’s too good to pass up. |
