Whether you’re a foodie visiting Rutland for the weekend or a local looking to stock up on quality produce, this small but mighty county is home to some truly excellent farm shops and delis. From rustic butchery to artisan cheese, and locally baked bread to deli counters brimming with flavour, these five stops offer the best of Rutland’s independent food scene.
Here are five of our favourite farm and deli shops in Rutland – each one worth the detour.
Start your foodie journey at Gates Garden Centre’s award-winning Farm Shop, crowned Best Destination Garden Centre Farm Shop in the UK in 2025. Located just outside Oakham in Cold Overton, the shop offers top-quality produce straight from Gates Farm, including beef and lamb reared on-site, seasonal fruit and veg, fresh bread, and pantry staples – all beautifully presented and package-free where possible.
You’ll also find Hambleton Butchery inside, known for its premium cuts and deli counter full of pork pies, cheeses, and ready-made meals. After shopping, be sure to explore Gates’ other shops next door—and finish your visit with a coffee in the lovely café or relaxed dining area.
- Local tip: Don’t leave without trying something from the deli counter—the pork pies and ready meals are perfect for a picnic or lazy weekend lunch.
Okay, yes – we’ve mentioned Hambleton Bakery before, but it definitely earns another spotlight in our list of best farm and deli shops. Known across the region (and beyond) for its artisan breads, pastries, and cakes, Hambleton bakes using time-honoured methods and local ingredients, proudly avoiding additives in all its products.
As a certified B Corporation, the bakery is also leading the way in sustainability, meeting high standards of ethical and environmental responsibility. Whether you’re after a crusty sourdough, an indulgent Eccles cake, or a savoury slice, you’ll find everything here made with real care and skill.
- Local tip: Head next door to Exton Café for a sit-down bite - it's a 2-minute drive, or 15 min walk, & perfect for Bee Cottage Rutland guests.
If you’re a cheese lover, a visit to Rennet & Rind in Stamford is a must. This multi-award-winning cheesemonger and affineur specialises in curating and maturing the very best of British artisan cheese. Every cheese is hand-selected from top-tier independent makers and aged to perfection in their own maturing rooms.
Founded by Mark Hulme and Perry Wakeman—who’s twice been named Affineur of the Year—Rennet & Rind is home to some of the UK’s most celebrated cheeses, including The Duke and The Duchess, both winners at the World Cheese Awards. Whether you’re exploring their counter in-store or subscribing to their monthly Mystery Cheese Box, you’re in expert hands.
- Local tip: Don’t be shy - ask for recommendations. The staff are true cheese geeks and love helping you discover a new favourite for your next cheeseboard.
Tucked away just off the main road from Exton, Farmer Lou is a brilliant choice for anyone looking for truly local, sustainable meat. Their farm shop is stocked with produce from animals bred and raised right on their own land—grass-fed beef and lamb, and rare-breed pigs often seen snuffling nearby.
All butchering happens onsite, giving them full control over quality, freshness, and reducing waste. The result? Some of the tastiest sausages, burgers, and cuts around – perfect for a proper farm-to-table meal.
- Local tip: Farmer Lou is closed on Mondays, so time your visit for Tuesday to Sunday when it’s open - with earlier closing on weekends.
Otters Fine Foods in Oakham is a haven for gourmet lovers looking for artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and deli delights sourced both locally and from across Europe. It’s more than just a shop – it’s a full food experience, with an eat-in deli where you can enjoy quality coffee, fresh cakes, and light lunches made using the same ingredients they sell.
Whether you’re picking up a slab of fine cheese, a beautifully cured meat, or sitting down for a leisurely brunch, Otters delivers both quality and charm. And if you’re after something a little different or hard to find, their knowledgeable team is always happy to offer suggestions from their carefully curated range.
- Top tip: Visit mid-morning for a quiet coffee and browse - then take home something indulgent from their deli counter for later.
To Sum It Up...
Each of these shops brings something special to the table – quite literally. From pasture-fed meats to handmade pastries, they’re full of the kind of care and character you rarely find on supermarket shelves. And if you’re exploring Rutland, many of these spots double as lovely places to stop for a coffee or light bite. Also, consider visiting this map from Discover Rutland for some other places to visit if required.
There are also a few other farm shops and delis in Rutland worth discovering in the area, so keep your eyes open while you’re on the road – you never know what delicious find might be around the next corner.
