Discover the Taste of Tradition at The Bakewell Tart Shop

There’s something magical about the Bakewell Tart – a dessert that has stood the test of time, proudly originating in the Peak District town of Bakewell over a century ago. If you’ve never tried an authentic Bakewell Tart or are craving a taste of nostalgia, you’re in for a treat. The Bakewell Tart Shop, nestled in the heart of Bakewell at 18 Matlock Street, is the only place where you’ll find the true recipe, lovingly guarded by just two people in the world!

What is a Bakewell Tart?

A Bakewell Tart is an English classic with a pastry shell, a layer of jam, frangipane and topped with chopped almonds. You’ll also find iced Cherry Bakewells, traditional Bakewell tarts topped with icing and a cherry.

A Slice of History in Every Bite

The history of the Bakewell Tart is as rich as its taste. In the 19th Century, Mrs. Greaves, the owner of White Horse Inn in Bakewell, asked her cook to bake a pudding. But as fate would have it, the cook didn’t follow the instructions. Instead of pouring the mixture into the pastry cases and adding jam, the cook did it the other way around. The Bakewell Pudding was born, soon followed by the Bakewell Tart.

The White Horse Inn is still in Bakewell and is now the Rutland Arms Hotel.

When was the Bakewell Tart Created?

Some say it was 1820 and others say as late as 1860. Either way people have been enjoying the recipe for over 160 years.

What is the Difference between a Bakewell Tart and a Bakewell Pudding?

The only difference? The tart is made with shortcrust pastry, while the pudding uses puff pastry. The famous icing was only added to the tart around the turn of the 1900s, making the Bakewell Tart we know and love today.

What Makes the Original Bakewell Tart So Special?

The Bakewell Tart Shop’s recipe is truly unique – nothing like the versions you’ll find in supermarkets. They use a “wet mixture,” an original technique that results in a much moister, richer tart. In fact, the owners are proud to say this recipe is the only genuine version of the Bakewell Tart. Every bite offers a taste of history and a perfect balance of sweet almond frangipane and fruity jam. It’s the ultimate winter comfort food, especially when paired with a warm, creamy custard.

A Little Extra Love for Dragons and Fairy Dust Readers

I’m excited to share that Duncan Kirk, the owner of The Bakewell Tart Shop, has generously offered a discount just for us! Use the code ALISON15 at checkout to enjoy a 15% discount on your order – perfect timing for treating yourself or gifting a taste of Bakewell this season. But hurry, as the code is only valid until December 1st 2025!

Perfect for Winter Gatherings or Christmas Gifting

Each Bakewell Tart is 6 inches in diameter, providing four generous servings. The tarts arrive in a beautiful, custom-designed box to keep them in pristine condition. And if you’d like to make it extra special, The Bakewell Tart Shop offers personalised iced Cherry Bakewell Tarts. A lovely touch for holiday gatherings or as a unique gift. With Christmas just around the corner, they’re even releasing some festive editions. This will add an extra sprinkle of holiday cheer to your table.

National Comfort Day Treat

With National Comfort Day on 9 December, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a slice of this comforting dessert.

Head over to The Bakewell Tart Shop to explore their offerings and order online. Why not take a scenic trip to Bakewell and experience the charm of this historic shop and café in person? If you visit, you’ll find that the Bakewell Tart Shop occupies the building where puddings and tarts were first commercially baked.

What I Thought

I was lucky enough to be sent a couple of Bakewell tarts to try, an original one with the almond topping and an iced one. As it was Halloween, the iced one bore the message “Trick or Treat”. I think its a lovely touch that the tarts can be personalised with a message and it only takes an extra day.

The tarts were lovely. Both were moist and full of flavour. The iced one was sweeter due to the icing sugar but either would make a delicious teatime treat.

Enjoy a sweet slice of British heritage. If you try one, remember to share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media.

You might also like:

• My Family Kitchen review and Bakewell Tart recipe (not this genuine one)
• Custard Tarts