Winner
Chosen by our judges:
Clarkes of Queniborough, Leicestershire
The finalists
The top public vote-winners:
Clarkes of Queniborough, Leicestershire
North’s of Rothley, Leicestershire
Moor Farm Shop, Newborough, Cambridgeshire
Hartington Cheese Shop, Hartington, Derbyshire
The winner is Clarkes of Queniborough, a beloved family-run butchery and deli that served the local community since 1982.
Over the years, Clarkes – led by Ian Clarke – has earned a reputation for exceptional quality, service and innovation. What started as a traditional butcher’s shop has evolved into one of the best village food shops in the region, offering everything from locally sourced meat to award-winning homemade pies and ready meals.
The secret to Clarkes’ success lies in its commitment to sourcing the best local produce and crafting delicious, homemade items. On the butcher’s counter, you’ll find an impressive selection of lamb, beef, pork, chicken, game and more – all supplied by local farms. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to offer advice and help you choose the perfect cut.
Then there is the range of award-winning products. Their homemade pork pies, such as the Stilton and Caramelised Onion Chutney Pork Pie, have earned top accolades, including a Great Taste Award and Best Speciality Pie at the Melton & Belvoir Agricultural Society awards. Their Pork & Stilton sausages have also won recognition, highlighting the shop’s commitment to flavour and quality.
In addition to their butchery and deli offerings, Clarkes has become renowned for its pioneering ready meals, which have gained popularity far beyond their local village. Their dishes, such as Boeuf Bourguignon and Chicken Tikka Masala, are now stocked in farm shops, village stores and even internationally, showcasing Clarkes’ dedication to producing high-quality, convenient meals.
It’s this combination of tradition, innovation, pride, professionalism and local sourcing that makes Clarkes of Queniborough our Shop of the Year 2024/25. If you’re looking for food shop perfection, Clarkes is the place to visit!
The other finalists
North’s of Rothley, Leicestershire
North’s of Rothley is an independent, family-run deli and patisserie – a true gem in the village of Rothley, Leicestershire. Unlike typical village shops, North’s focuses purely on providing the finest deli items and baked goods, all carefully selected for their taste and quality by owner David North, who brings over 50 years of expertise to every product on the shelves.
At North’s, nothing is chosen based on flashy packaging or brand recognition – it’s all about flavour and craftsmanship. From continental cheeses and charcuterie to freshly baked pies, tarts and sausage rolls, every item reflects the shop’s commitment to authenticity. The shelves are also stocked with breads, fresh fruit and vegetables, and a vast array of wines, making it a destination for food lovers who appreciate high-quality ingredients.
David’s dedication to curating only the best for his customers has turned North’s into a beloved local institution. More recently, a small coffee shop was added, giving visitors even more reasons to stop by.
The combination of David’s decades of experience, the shop’s focus on quality, and the welcoming village atmosphere have made North’s of Rothley a finalist in this year’s awards. It’s a place where food is chosen with care, and where customers can trust they’re getting the very best.
Moor Farm Shop, Newborough, Cambridgeshire
Found in Newborough, Cambridgeshire, this bustling farm shop and tea room offers a wonderful mix of traditional farming values and top-quality local produce, making it a destination in its own right.
Run by third-generation farmer Judith Jacobs and her dedicated team, Moor Farm Shop is still deeply connected to the family farm, ensuring every product is fully traceable. They sell Red Tractor-assured beef and lamb, born and grass-fed on the farm, alongside local meats, cheeses, freshly baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables and much more.
Visitors are greeted with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, whether they’re exploring the butchery and deli counters or enjoying a meal in the popular tea room. The tea room serves breakfast and lunch, featuring homemade dishes like soups, quiches, and cakes.
With a five-star Food Hygiene Rating and Red Tractor Farm Assured status, Moor Farm Shop is not just about quality — it’s about trust and supporting local.
Hartington Cheese Shop, Hartington, Derbyshire
Located in the picturesque village of Hartington, Derbyshire, this charming shop is not only one of the most beautiful cheese shops in Britain, but it also offers a glorious selection of high-quality cheeses and local produce.
Set in a historic stone building overlooking the village duck pond in the Peak District, Hartington Cheese Shop is a true gem for cheese lovers. It’s been a staple of the community for over 30 years, specialising in the best of British cheeses. The shop features local favourites like Lincolnshire Poacher, Dovedale Blue, and various Wensleydales, along with the celebrated Stilton made just down the road at Hartington Creamery — the only maker of Stilton in Derbyshire.
The shelves are also stocked with an impressive range of local beers, English wines, chutneys, biscuits, pickles and patés, ensuring visitors have everything they need for the perfect cheese board.
What makes Hartington Cheese Shop stand out is its beauty, its setting and its celebration of locally sourced products. It’s a thoroughly deserved finalist that demands a visit!
