Wharfedale Fine Cheeses: Yorkshire cheese company opens doors to its first shop
A new cheese shop has opened its doors in Ilkley town centre as a Yorkshire trader takes the next step with his company.
Wharfedale Fine Cheeses, founded by local cheesemonger Jeremy Benn, has officially opened its first permanent shop on Church Street in Ilkley.
The opening comes after Mr Benn spent over a decade trading outdoors at markets across Yorkshire.
He described the move as a “major milestone,” adding: “Wharfedale Fine Cheeses are embarking on a new adventure.
“After 14 years of being stood out in the cold, wet and windy weather, we are taking the next step and moving into a permanent shop in Ilkley.”
The new shop offers a range of around 70 cheeses, with access to more than 4,500 varieties.
Its range will focus on Yorkshire and British cheeses, alongside a selection of products that complement cheese including chutneys, jams, mustards, olive oils, and an expanded range of crackers, including gluten‑free options.
Mr Benn adds: “We also have the beautiful and fruity natural juices from Yorkshire Orchards and spicy sauces from Yoyo Laos Sauces.”
Customers will be invited to enjoy free tea and coffee in the seated area at the back of the store while they shop, with cheese enthusiasts also able to explore a selection of pre‑loved cheese books in the store.
Mr Benn previously worked in insurance and mortgages, but later left the industry after becoming “disillusioned” with office life.
In 2008 he joined Lishman’s of Ilkley, where he spent four years learning the craft before launching his own mobile sandwich business.
His cheese boards quickly became a standout favourite among his catering customers, inspiring him to take the leap into cheese retail.
In 2012 he began trading at Baildon Farmers’ Market, later becoming a regular presence at the Ilkley Real Food Markets on the first Sunday of every month.
Speaking on the opening of the new store, he added: “Ilkley residents and visitors to the town really clicked with me and my cheeses, and I hope that will be the case in the new shop.”
Mr Benn has also said he plans to host tasting events and cheesemaker afternoons at the new site
The new shop is open Monday from 10am to 4pm, and Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm.
The opening comes after Ilkley’s high street received a major boost earlier this month with a new banking hub, designed to give residents greater access to cash and banking services.
It came after campaigning from local MP, Robbie Moore.
Speaking on the opening, Mr Moore said: "This hub will ensure residents and businesses can continue to access vital in-person banking services and cash transactions.”