Dunlop (Ayrshire)

About the Cheese

Ayrshire Dunlop is one of the most traditional Scottish cheese varieties, even more traditional than cheddar. 

The Dunlop we stock is a vegetarian firm cheese made from pasteurised cow’s milk by Ann Dorward of West Clerkland Farm near Stewarton. Ann follows a traditional recipe, wrapping her cheeses in cloth for a slow 6-month maturation, which allows them to develop a full, rich flavour.

Traditional Dunlop is buttery, slightly tangy, and earthy, with the sweetness of fresh milk and a creamy, cheddar-like texture.

Enjoy traditional Dunlop with craft ales and complex red wines for a delightful pairing.

Cheesemaker: Dunlop Dairy (Ann Dorward)

The Dorward family moved to Clerkland Farm in 1983, embracing the challenge of transforming a rundown house and small farm into a thriving operation.

Ann Dorward, driven by her childhood dream of living and working on a farm, studied agriculture and pursued cheesemaking as a way to add value to milk and ensure a sustainable livelihood.

Cheesemaking at Dunlop Dairy began in 1989, and early successes at the IFE London International Cheese Show confirmed the quality of their products.

Over the years, the dairy has expanded to include a herd of Ayrshire cows and goats, allowing for the development of a diverse range of award-winning cheeses.

Today, Dunlop Dairy is proud to have reintroduced farmhouse cheesemaking in Ayrshire, with their famous Dunlop cheese in the final stages of achieving Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status.

Ann’s dedication and hard work have transformed her dream into a reality, creating a legacy of exceptional cheesemaking.