A Scoop of Heaven: Visiting Otter Valley Dairy Field Kitchen for Award-Winning Gelato and Stunning Views

After lunch on our journey to Exeter, we made our way to the Otter Valley Dairy and Field Kitchen in search of something sweet — and it didn’t disappoint. Located in Devon, this award-winning ice cream parlour is more than just a place for dessert; it’s a scenic destination with a story. We sat on a bench facing the sweeping Otter Valley, indulging in small-batch artisan gelato while children ran freely on the grass and friendly dogs lazed nearby. With dry weather, open skies, and a view that stretches across rolling hills, our visit felt like a slice of rural heaven — a perfect pause for our journey.

Valley Setting – Glorious Views

Located within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Otter Valley Field Kitchen offers a breathtaking natural backdrop that sets it apart from typical cafes or parlours. The valley takes its name from the River Otter, which gently weaves its way through the landscape below.

Just steps away from the Field Kitchen lies Dumpdon Hill Fort — an Iron Age hilltop site with thousands of years of history. Once fortified by tribes as a sign of power and prestige, it remains an impressive natural monument today. From the benches outside the Field Kitchen, you can admire this historic landmark and imagine the ancient community that once lived, farmed, and forged their lives here.

From Dairy Farm to Award‑Winning Ice Cream (Our Visit)

The Field Kitchen is the proud creation of the Bond family, who have been farming this land for over 100 years. What began in 2010 as a humble summerhouse ice cream stall has evolved into a full-fledged Field Kitchen and gelato destination. Inspired by the artistry of Italian gelato masters, the family travelled abroad to learn their craft, returning with the know-how to create small-batch ice cream using traditional techniques — a method they still use today.

We visited on a dry, mild day, and while we didn’t go inside the restaurant itself (dogs aren’t allowed indoors) as we had Ollie with us, the outdoor area was perfect for relaxing with a cone in hand. There were families, couples, and plenty of energetic children enjoying the open space. Dogs lounged in the sun near their owners, and laughter drifted across the field. It’s rare to find a place that blends artisan food, family-friendly charm, and panoramic views so effortlessly — and the Otter Valley Field Kitchen does just that.

Gelato Worth the Journey

Otter Valley’s ice cream is not your everyday scoop — it’s gelato, made the Italian way. The Bond family’s dedication to their craft shines through in every batch, using traditional gelato-making techniques, minimal air for a dense, creamy texture, and handmade sauces and inclusions. Each scoop is crafted in small quantities using local milk and natural ingredients, resulting in flavours that are rich, vibrant, and deeply satisfying.

What sets this gelato apart isn’t just the technique, but the love and attention that goes into every batch. From classics like Madagascan Vanilla and Belgian Chocolate to seasonal or creative flavours that include fruits, nuts, and ripples, the selection is ever-changing. You can enjoy your ice cream on the spot in cones or cups, or take home a litre tub from their takeaway freezer. For those making a longer journey, reusable cool bags are available to help preserve your treats until you get home.

And it’s not just locals who rave about it — the gelato here has won regional and national awards and has even been served to royalty. But on the day we visited, it was simply a delicious moment: no frills, no fanfare, just really good ice cream enjoyed with a view. We ordered the Mango Passionfruit and Blackcurrant Ripple.

Handcrafted Artisan Gelato

The heart of Otter Valley Field Kitchen is undoubtedly its handcrafted artisan gelato. Developed over years of dedication and inspired by traditional Italian techniques, each scoop tells a story of craftsmanship and care. The Bond family travelled to Italy to train with top gelato chefs, refining their recipes until the perfect texture and flavour were achieved. Today, they continue to produce their gelato just as they did on day one—by hand, with no shortcuts.

Small‑Batch, Made-from-Scratch Ingredients

Otter Valley’s gelato is made in small batches to ensure the highest quality and freshness. Unlike mass-produced varieties, their gelato is full of flavour, thanks to minimal air being added during the churning process. From making their own sauces and ripples to carefully folding in inclusions like fruit or chocolate by hand, everything is done with intent and integrity. The result is a rich, creamy dessert that elevates every bite into an indulgent experience.

Seasonal and Classic Flavours – Mention Your Favourites

The gelato cabinet is a rainbow of flavours, with both seasonal and classic choices rotating regularly. From the timeless appeal of Madagascan Vanilla and Belgian Chocolate to refreshing Orange Marmalade and zingy Lemon Curd, there’s always something new to try. Our favourites during the visit included Salted Caramel, which balanced sweetness with just the right hint of savoury, and Strawberries, a perfect summer treat. With each flavour lovingly created, you’ll find something to please every palate.

Beyond Ice Cream: Field Kitchen Menu

While the gelato draws visitors in, the Field Kitchen’s broader menu gives them every reason to stay. The oak-framed restaurant offers a warm, inviting space where guests can enjoy a hearty sit-down meal or light refreshments. The menu features wood-fired sourdough pizzas, homemade cakes, and locally sourced seasonal lunches, all cooked fresh to order. Coffee lovers can indulge in a cup of hand-roasted artisan coffee, best enjoyed with a slice of rich chocolate brownie, Victoria sponge or zesty lemon drizzle cake.

Awards, Royal Recognition, & Community

Otter Valley Field Kitchen’s excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, they were crowned Parlour of the Year by the Ice Cream Alliance, a prestigious national accolade. In 2025, they took home the title of Devon County Show Ice Cream Champion. Their gelato has even been served to members of the British Royal Family, underlining its exceptional quality and appeal.

Beyond awards, the Field Kitchen has become a beloved part of the local community. They’ve been featured in press outlets like The Devon Daily, Yahoo News UK, and Tripadvisor, with consistent praise for their quality and hospitality. Their social media presence reflects a loyal following, and they regularly give back through local charitable initiatives—reinforcing their commitment not just to excellence, but to people.

Dog-Friendly (only outside) & Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Otter Valley Field Kitchen offers an atmosphere that’s as relaxed and welcoming as the sweeping views of the Blackdown Hills that surround it. On dry days, outdoor benches along the field edge make the perfect spot to enjoy your gelato while watching children run and play freely across the open space. The large grassy area is ideal for families, with plenty of room for little ones to explore.

While dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant or ice cream parlour, the outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, making it an ideal stop for dog walkers and those travelling with pets. Water bowls and shaded areas help ensure four-legged friends are comfortable too. It’s the kind of place where laughter, tail-wags, and the clink of coffee cups blend seamlessly into the serene countryside backdrop.

Final Thoughts and Visitor Tips

Our visit to Otter Valley Field Kitchen was a delightful experience — one that blends great food, warm hospitality, and a deep appreciation for place and history. The setting is tranquil yet full of life, perfect for families, dog walkers, or anyone looking for a meaningful stop in the Devon countryside. It’s easy to spend an hour or two here — enjoying a gelato, sipping wine, soaking up the views, or wandering the nearby trails.

Here are a few tips for visitors:

Best time to visit: Dry, sunny days allow you to make the most of the outdoor seating and views.
Dog-friendliness: Dogs are welcome outside but not in the restaurant or ice cream parlour.
Don’t miss: Try a unique gelato flavour and check out the local wine selection.
For history buffs: Pair your visit with a short hike up Dumpdon Hill Fort for panoramic views and a glimpse into Iron Age life.

Otter Valley Field Kitchen isn’t just a stop for dessert — it’s a destination that delivers flavour, scenery, and a touch of Devon’s rural soul.