5 Must-Have Cheeses for Your UK Summer Platter

Summer calls for easy food, outdoor gatherings and cheeseboards you can put together without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're planning a garden get-together, summer party or relaxed evening in the sun, a good summer cheese platter gives everyone something to pick at and enjoy.

These selections make excellent cheese gifts for any occasion, including get-well-soon hampers for friends or family recovering from illness.

1. Garlic & Chive Cheddar Truckle

Bring a savoury favourite to your summer cheeseboard with our Garlic & Chive Cheddar Truckle.

Creamy cheddar is blended with punchy garlic and aromatic chives for a classic combination that works particularly well alongside crackers, chutney, fresh fruit and other cheeseboard favourites. Its bold yet familiar flavour makes it an easy crowd-pleaser for picnics, garden gatherings and relaxed summer grazing.

2. Orange & Whisky Cheddar Truckle

Add a fruity twist to your summer cheeseboard with our Orange & Whisky Cheddar Truckle.

Smooth mature cheddar is blended with sweet orange marmalade and a splash of whisky, creating an intense citrus flavour followed by a warming whisky finish. It is a great choice for adding something a little different alongside more traditional savoury cheeses.

3. Limoncello Cheddar Barrel

For something a little sweeter, add a Limoncello Cheddar Barrel to your summer cheese platter.

This creamy cheddar is blended with sweet lemon marmalade, creating a bright, citrusy flavour with an almost cheesecake-like character. Try a thin slice with a digestive or ginger biscuit for a refreshing contrast to the more traditional savoury cheeses on your board.

4. Lymn Bank Farm Strongest Cheese Barrel 145g

For those who crave intensity, the Lymn Bank Farm Strongest Cheese Barrel is an essential addition to your summer cheese platter. 

This two-and-a-half-year-old cheddar is ideal for your cheeseboard or as part of cheese hampers for refined tastes.

5. Extra-Mature Cheddar Large Waxed Cheese Truckle 2kg

No UK cheese platter is complete without a classic mature cheddar, and this one has been aged for over two and a half years. 

Its impressive 2kg size makes it ideal for larger gatherings or as a stunning addition to a wedding cheesecake.

What to Add to a Summer Cheese Platter

The cheese might be the star, but the accompaniments are what turn it into a full spread.

Try adding a mixture of:

• Crackers and bread for crunch and texture
• Chutney, pickle or chilli jam for sweet, sharp or spicy pairings
• Fresh fruit such as grapes, strawberries or apple
• Olives and antipasti for something savoury
• Cured meats if you're creating a larger grazing board
• Sweet treats for something to finish with

You don't need to add everything. A few contrasting flavours and textures are usually enough to make the board feel varied without overcrowding it.

How to Serve Cheese in Summer

Warm weather needs a little extra care when you're serving cheese outdoors.

Keep cheese refrigerated until you need it and, if you're travelling, carry it in an insulated cool bag with ice packs. Avoid leaving your cheeseboard sitting in direct sunlight for long periods.

For picnics and outdoor gatherings, waxed cheese truckles are particularly convenient because they're compact and easy to transport.

If you're planning a full day out rather than a platter at home, take a look at our Perfect Cheese Picnic guide for more picnic ideas.

Build Your Summer Cheeseboard

From sweet and citrussy flavours to strong mature Cheddar, mixing different styles of cheese is an easy way to create a summer platter with something for everyone.

Explore our British cheese collection to choose your favourites, then add crackers, chutneys and other accompaniments to build your own summer spread.