It’s barely even a competition anymore as to which is the best bakery in Bristol. Again and again, Farro Bakery‘s name pops up in conversation. That’s not even to say the rest are bad – quite the opposite in fact – the St Paul’s bakery is just that good. After being picked among the best bakeries in the UK last year, by both The Times and the Financial Times, it’s done it again.
Farro has been named among the top bakeries in Britain as part of the 2024 Bakers’ Dozen by British Baker – the leading bakery trade magazine’s annual list of the best artisan bakeries in the UK. Voted for by over 100 specialists from artisan bakers, suppliers, consultants and lecturers – voters broken down by region to ensure bakeries across Britain had equal opportunity to shine.
British Bakery describes an artisan bakery as “where baked goods are made by skilled bakers by hand, often utilising longer and more traditional processes. Quality of ingredients and the end products are high on the agenda, and as a result, artisan bakeries typically only have a handful of sites.”
Coming fifth, Farro was the ONLY artisanal bakery representing the South West – which is incredible if you ask us. Cumbria’s Lovingly Artisan Bakery, however, was named as the top bakery in Britain for the second year in a row. Farro was also beaten by Bread Source in Norfolk, The Dusty Knuckle in London and Northern Rye in Newcastle upon Tyne.
“If you’re looking for superb sourdough or incredible croissants, then these are the bakeries to visit!” said Amy North, British Baker editor. “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.”
What should you get at Farro Bakery?
Offering a range of classic bakes and modern takes, you’ll hardly put a foot wrong at Farro. Sourdough loaves, croissants, and soft serve ice cream (in the summer) will all put a smile on your face – but we recommend trying Farro’s legendary canelés. If you want to push the boat, however, in the past the bakery has offered orange pastel de natas, yellow peach and vanilla cream-filled crouxs, and rhubarb and white chocolate custard galettes.
Responsible sourcing is always at the forefront of Farro’s baking, which influences and inspires the ever-changing counter options too. So the best way to find out what to try is to head down yourself. You’ll find Farro Bakery at 1 Brunswick Square, St Paul’s, Bristol BS2 8PE.
The 2024 Bakers’ Dozen:
1. Lovingly Artisan, Cumbria
2. Bread Source, Norfolk
3. The Dusty Knuckle, London
4. Northern Rye, Newcastle upon Tyne
5. Farro, Bristol
6. The Street Bakeshop, Basingstoke
7. Toad, London
8. Poppyseed Bakery, Eastbourne
9. Bostock Bakery, Berwick
10. Stir Bakery, Cambridge
11. Arôme, London
12. Pollen, Manchester
13. Cottonrake Bakery, Glasgow