Lovingly Artisan Bakery, based in Cumbria, has earned the title of Britain's finest bakery for the second consecutive year, according to the 2024 Bakers’ Dozen ranking.
The list, which recognises the top 13 artisan bakeries in the nation, is determined by the votes of more than 100 experts in the field, including artisan bakers, lecturers, consultants, and suppliers.
The Artisan collective is an initiative that was created by British Baker.
The rankings were announced as part of the second ever assembly of The Artisan Collective on January 30.
The gathering, held at The Compound in Birmingham, was sponsored by Angel Refrigeration, Craggs & Co, and Rondo, and aims to highlight the work of artisan bakeries and their creators while fostering dialogue and skill sharing.
A careful selection process ensured fair representation for bakeries from all regions of the country.
On receiving this recognition, Aidan Monks and Catherine Connor, owners of Lovingly Artisan Bakery said: "Winning top spot in the Bakers’ Dozen last year was amazing.
"To win it for the second year in a row hasn’t really sunk in.
"We’re thrilled to be included in the top 13, but being voted the UK’s number one artisan bakery is the cherry on top, especially knowing that our industry peers have voted for us.
"Hopefully everything that we try to do day in day out for our customers has struck a chord and has begun to influence more and more artisan bakeries up and down the country to put quality, wholesome, healthy breads at the heart of every family table again."
Amy North, editor at British Baker, said: "Each of the 13 bakeries on the list has been recognised by industry experts and their peers as a beacon of dedication, passion, and skill, as demonstrated through lovingly handcrafted products and the people who make them.
"It’s great to see such a diverse range of bakeries, which span the width and breadth of Britain, on the list meaning communities across the nation have access to some wonderful baked goods."
Artisan bakeries are known for their crafted products including items like sourdough, bread, buns, pastries, and cakes, among other things, all of which are often produced using longer and more traditional methods.
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