1. Company Name: U-Bake Ltd
City/Town: Londonderry
Postal Code: BT48 8SE
Street Address: Skeoge Industrial Estate, Beraghmore Road
Country: United Kingdom
2. Company Name: Knead Bakery
City/Town: Newtownards
Postal Code: BT23 4JN
Street Address: 3 High Street
Country: United Kingdom
3. Company Name: Jeffers Home Bakery
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 1AG
Street Address: 20 Market Square
Country: United Kingdom
4. Company Name: New Found Joy
City/Town: Craigavon
Postal Code: BT66 8BY
Street Address: 30-32 Queens Place
Country: United Kingdom
5. Company Name: Johnston Bakery
City/Town: Armagh
Postal Code: BT61 7BY
Street Address: 9 Scotch Street
Country: United Kingdom
6. Company Name: Shaw’s Home Bakery
City/Town: Newtownards
Postal Code: BT23 7DN
Street Address: 26 Frances Street
Country: United Kingdom
7. Company Name: Elizabeth Home Bakery
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT4 2AA
Street Address: 29 Belmont Road
Country: United Kingdom
8. Company Name: Leprechaun Bakery & Coffee Shop
City/Town: Londonderry
Postal Code: BT47 6AP
Street Address: 41 Clooney Terrace
Country: United Kingdom
9. Company Name: Garvaghy Home Bakery
City/Town: Craigavon
Postal Code: BT62 1EZ
Street Address: 154 Garvaghy Road
Country: United Kingdom
10. Company Name: Bakewells Patisserie
City/Town: Omagh
Postal Code: BT79 0AG
Street Address: 18 Campsie Road
Country: United Kingdom
11. Company Name: McKee’s Bakers’ Shops
City/Town: Carrickfergus
Postal Code: BT38 9RX
Street Address: 9 Windsor Avenue
Country: United Kingdom
12. Company Name: Maine Bakery Ltd
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT42 1BW
Street Address: 77 Main Street
Country: United Kingdom
13. Company Name: Hunter’s Bakery
City/Town: Limavady
Postal Code: BT49 0AB
Street Address: 5-9 Market Street
Country: United Kingdom
14. Company Name: Village Bakery
City/Town: Armagh
Postal Code: BT60 1PL
Street Address: 76 Main Street
Country: United Kingdom
15. Company Name: The Meadow Bakery
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 2RB
Street Address: Unit 6 Rathdown Road, Lissue Industrial Estate West
Country: United Kingdom
16. Company Name: Bluebell Bakery
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT15 5EX
Street Address: 180 Cavehill Road
Country: United Kingdom
17. Company Name: Coyles Home Bakery
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT10 0BE
Street Address: 124 Upper Lisburn Road
Country: United Kingdom
18. Company Name: Roys Home Bakery
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT5 7EA
Street Address: Unit 3 Kings Square
Country: United Kingdom
19. Company Name: The Bakery
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT44 9AA
Street Address: 2-4 Main Street
Country: United Kingdom
20. Company Name: Griddle Bakery
City/Town: Portstewart
Postal Code: BT55 7LS
Street Address: 1 Strand Road
Country: United Kingdom
21. Company Name: Irons Home Bakery
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT42 3AL
Street Address: 55 Larne Street
Country: United Kingdom
22. Company Name: McGlaughlin’s Bakery
City/Town: Cookstown
Postal Code: BT80 8LW
Street Address: 12 James Street
Country: United Kingdom
23. Company Name: Knotts Bakery
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT9 6GL
Street Address: 376 Lisburn Road
Country: United Kingdom
24. Company Name: McKinney’s Home Bakery
City/Town: Coleraine
Postal Code: BT52 2EH
Street Address: 154 Ballycastle Road
Country: United Kingdom
25. Company Name: Mary Jane’s Bakery
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT4 3EL
Street Address: 112 Upper Newtownards Road
Country: United Kingdom
26. Company Name: The Cake Bowl
City/Town: Armagh
Postal Code: BT61 7HT
Street Address: 7 Railway Street
Country: United Kingdom
27. Company Name: Buttercup Bakery
City/Town: Coleraine
Postal Code: BT51 3DP
Street Address: 14 Waterside Street
Country: United Kingdom
28. Company Name: O’Neill’s Bakery
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT42 2DX
Street Address: 20 Antrim Road
Country: United Kingdom
29. Company Name: Sweet Treats Bakery
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 3TN
Street Address: 34 Milltown Road
Country: United Kingdom
30. Company Name: Sugar & Spice Bakery
City/Town: Newtownards
Postal Code: BT23 4JN
Street Address: 9 High Street
Country: United Kingdom
31. Company Name: Golden Crust Bakery
City/Town: Ballymoney
Postal Code: BT53 6HS
Street Address: 15 Church Street
Country: United Kingdom
32. Company Name: Belfast Pastry House
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT9 6RU
Street Address: 27 Malone Road
Country: United Kingdom
33. Company Name: Cherry Blossom Bakery
City/Town: Omagh
Postal Code: BT78 1DD
Street Address: 5 Castle Street
Country: United Kingdom
34. Company Name: The Pastry Pantry
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT20 5AG
Street Address: 18 Main Street
Country: United Kingdom
35. Company Name: Little Delights Bakery
City/Town: Holywood
Postal Code: BT18 9AE
Street Address: 12 Main Street
Country: United Kingdom
36. Company Name: Sweet Tooth Bakery
City/Town: Ballycastle
Postal Code: BT54 6DR
Street Address: 8 Bridge Street
Country: United Kingdom
37. Company Name: Blissful Bakes
City/Town: Downpatrick
Postal Code: BT30 6AB
Street Address: 22 High Street
Country: United Kingdom
38. Company Name: The Rolling Pin Bakery
City/Town: Carrickfergus
Postal Code: BT38 7AW
Street Address: 6 Market Street
Country: United Kingdom
39. Company Name: Northern Bakes
City/Town: Newry
Postal Code: BT34 1HS
Street Address: 10 Queen Street
Country: United Kingdom
40. Company Name: Bakery Bliss
City/Town: Enniskillen
Postal Code: BT74 7DW
Street Address: 11 Church Street
Country: United Kingdom
41. Company Name: Delightful Dough
City/Town: Armagh
Postal Code: BT61 7BX
Street Address: 20 Market Street
Country: United Kingdom
42. Company Name: Fresh Bakes
City/Town: Banbridge
Postal Code: BT32 3LA
Street Address: 14 Rathfriland Road
Country: United Kingdom
43. Company Name: Heavenly Bites
City/Town: Cookstown
Postal Code: BT80 8AA
Street Address: 7 Main Street
Country: United Kingdom
44. Company Name: Classic Confections
City/Town: Londonderry
Postal Code: BT47 6DG
Street Address: 5 Lisnagelvin Road
Country: United Kingdom
45. Company Name: Golden Crumb Bakery
City/Town: Limavady
Postal Code: BT49 0AQ
Street Address: 19 High Street
Country: United Kingdom
46. Company Name: Cloud Nine Cakes
City/Town: Ballyclare
Postal Code: BT39 9AE
Street Address: 23 Market Street
Country: United Kingdom
47. Company Name: Baker’s Paradise
City/Town: Holywood
Postal Code: BT18 9BU
Street Address: 29 Church Road
Country: United Kingdom
48. Company Name: The Sweet Spot
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT20 4JB
Street Address: 21 Church Street
Country: United Kingdom
49. Company Name: Heavenly Delights
City/Town: Londonderry
Postal Code: BT48 7AB
Street Address: 34 Strand Road
Country: United Kingdom
50. Company Name: Perfect Pastry
City/Town: Coleraine
Postal Code: BT52 1AW
Street Address: 18 Bridge Street
Country: United Kingdom
Northern Ireland’s culinary scene is known for its hearty, comforting flavors, and its bakeries are a testament to the region’s love for baked goods. From traditional Irish breads to indulgent pastries and modern patisserie, the bakeries here are a blend of tradition and innovation. This article explores the history, specialties, and standout bakeries in Northern Ireland, offering a guide to experiencing the best of the region’s baked delights.
A Tradition Rooted in Bread
Northern Ireland has a rich tradition of bread-making that dates back centuries. Staples like soda bread, potato bread, and wheaten bread are deeply ingrained in the local culture. These breads were historically made using simple ingredients readily available to households, making them an essential part of daily life.
Today, these traditional breads continue to be celebrated in bakeries across the region, often paired with butter, jams, or enjoyed as part of a full Irish breakfast.
Baked Goods You Must Try
1. Soda Bread
A quick bread made without yeast, soda bread relies on baking soda and buttermilk for leavening. It has a dense texture and slightly tangy flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches or as an accompaniment to soups and stews.
2. Potato Bread (Fadge)
Made with mashed potatoes, flour, and salt, potato bread is a key component of the traditional Ulster Fry. It’s often fried until golden and crispy.
3. Wheaten Bread
A sweet, nutty-flavored bread made with wholemeal flour and baking soda. It’s a popular choice for teatime, served with butter and honey or marmalade.
4. Belfast Bap
A soft, floury bread roll that originated in Belfast. It’s traditionally filled with hearty ingredients like bacon and eggs or sausages.
5. Fifteens
A no-bake traybake made with digestive biscuits, marshmallows, cherries, and condensed milk, shaped into a roll and coated in desiccated coconut. A quintessential Northern Irish treat!
6. Pasties and Pies
While savory, pasties and pies often grace bakery menus. Flaky pastry filled with meats, vegetables, or cheese, these items are perfect for a quick, satisfying bite.
7. Modern Patisserie and Artisan Creations
Many contemporary bakeries in Northern Ireland have embraced global trends, offering macarons, sourdough loaves, croissants, and specialty cakes alongside traditional fare.
Top Bakeries in Northern Ireland
1. Yellow Door Bakery (Portadown)
Known for its artisan breads and pastries, Yellow Door combines traditional techniques with high-quality local ingredients. Their sourdough loaves and viennoiseries are particularly popular.
2. Belfast Baking Company (Belfast)
This modern bakery specializes in sourdough bread and offers an array of pastries and cakes. Their focus on locally sourced ingredients makes them a favorite among food enthusiasts.
3. French Village Bakery (Belfast)
Blending French techniques with Irish flavors, French Village offers a range of baked goods, from rustic breads to elegant desserts. Their afternoon tea is a must-try.
4. Heatherlea Bakery (Bangor)
A family-run bakery with a strong community presence, Heatherlea is known for its traditional breads, pies, and cakes. Their Belfast bap is a local favorite.
5. Irwin’s Bakery (Portadown)
One of Northern Ireland’s oldest and most iconic bakeries, Irwin’s is synonymous with soda bread and potato bread. Their products are widely available in stores across the region.
6. McErlain’s Bakery (Magherafelt)
Another long-established bakery, McErlain’s offers a variety of traditional breads, traybakes, and seasonal treats like mince pies and Christmas puddings.
7. Genesis Crafty (Magherafelt)
Known for its handcrafted baked goods, Genesis Crafty specializes in both sweet and savory items. Their scones and pancakes are particularly popular.
8. Joe’s Bakery (Newcastle)
A cozy local bakery offering a mix of traditional and modern baked goods. Their wheaten bread and pastries are highly recommended.
The Rise of Artisan Bakeries
While traditional bakeries dominate, the artisan baking movement has seen significant growth in Northern Ireland. Artisan bakeries focus on small-batch production, natural ingredients, and hand-crafted methods.
What Sets Artisan Bakeries Apart
- Sourdough Bread: With its tangy flavor and chewy texture, sourdough has become a staple in artisan bakeries.
- Creative Flavors: From matcha croissants to lavender-infused cakes, these bakeries experiment with unique ingredients.
- Sustainability: Many prioritize sustainable sourcing and packaging, aligning with eco-conscious consumer trends.
Some noteworthy artisan bakeries include:
- Miel et Moi (Belfast): Known for its exquisite pastries and patisserie items.
- Piece of Cake Bakery (Derry): Specializing in bespoke cakes and cupcakes.
- Bakery Lane (Lisburn): Offering a mix of sourdough breads, pastries, and seasonal treats.
Beyond the Counter: Bakery Cafes
Many bakeries in Northern Ireland double as cafes, providing a cozy setting to enjoy their creations with a cup of tea or coffee. Bakery cafes often feature relaxed interiors, making them ideal spots for catching up with friends or taking a break from exploring.
Popular Bakery Cafes
- Guilt Trip Coffee and Donuts (Belfast): Famous for its artisan donuts and specialty coffee.
- The Pocket (Belfast): A chic bakery cafe offering brunch items alongside freshly baked goods.
- Bread & Banjo Bakery (Belfast): Known for its quirky vibe and high-quality baked items.
Festivals and Events Celebrating Baking
Northern Ireland has several food festivals where bakeries showcase their skills and products.
- Balmoral Show: Features a range of local food producers, including bakeries.
- Taste Causeway: Highlights the best of the Causeway Coast’s culinary offerings, including baked goods.
- The Belfast Christmas Market: A festive event where bakeries sell holiday-themed treats like mince pies, stollen, and gingerbread.
Supporting Local Bakeries
The rise of chain bakeries and supermarkets has made it more important than ever to support local, independent bakeries. These establishments contribute to the local economy, preserve traditional recipes, and offer a personal touch that larger businesses cannot replicate.
When visiting Northern Ireland, make a point to explore neighborhood bakeries. Not only will you enjoy delicious treats, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s culinary heritage.
Conclusion
Bakeries in Northern Ireland are a delightful mix of the old and the new. From traditional soda bread to contemporary patisserie, they offer something for every palate. Whether you’re savoring a Belfast bap in a historic bakery or indulging in a macaron at a chic artisan shop, Northern Ireland’s bakeries provide a rich and flavorful experience that reflects the region’s unique culture and community spirit.