• Idle Hour - Norfolk Deli
  • Idle Hour - Norfolk Deli
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Allsop & Walker

Idle Hour

Idle Hour

£9.75 GBP
£9.75 GBP
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Key Facts

Region: West Sussex, England

Milk: Cow's Milk

Type: Semi Hard

Texture: Firm, slightly crumbly

Pasteurisation: Pasteurised

Strength

● ● ● ○ ○ Medium

Size

Cheese Delivery & Freshness

Whilst we always aim for prompt delivery, courier delivery dates cannot be guaranteed, and occasional delays do occur. The good news is that cheese is far more resilient than many people realise. Most traditional cheeses can comfortably withstand short transit delays and, in the vast majority of cases, delayed parcels arrive in excellent condition. If your parcel is delayed, simply refrigerate your cheese on arrival and allow it to come back to room temperature before serving. For more information, please see our Cheese Care Guide

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The Cheesemonger’s Notes

Traditional Sussex semi-hard cheese with fresh citrus notes and gentle nutty complexity

Idle Hour is a traditional semi-hard cheese made in West Sussex by Alsop & Walker using pasteurised cow’s milk. Aged for around 16–20 weeks, it has a firm, slightly crumbly texture and a fresh, creamy flavour with subtle citrus notes and gentle nutty complexity.

Idle Hour is a traditional semi-hard cheese made by Alsop & Walker in West Sussex, crafted using an old farmhouse recipe and refined with the dairy’s distinctive artisan approach. Made using pasteurised cow’s milk and vegetarian rennet, this cheese reflects the balance between heritage cheesemaking and modern craftsmanship.

Matured for around 16 to 20 weeks, Idle Hour develops a firm yet slightly crumbly texture, with a natural edible rind that protects and enhances its character during maturation. The careful ageing allows the flavours to develop while preserving the cheese’s freshness and balance.

The flavour is creamy and clean, with delicate citrus undertones that give the cheese its distinctive brightness. Subtle nutty notes emerge as it matures, adding depth and warmth without overwhelming its elegant profile.

This is a beautifully balanced cheese that demonstrates how thoughtful maturation can deliver both freshness and complexity.

Perfect Pairings

• Apple chutney or citrus marmalade
• Fresh apple or pear
• Oatcakes or crusty bread
• Dry white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc
• Pale ale or traditional cider

Ideal Uses

• A versatile addition to a cheese board
• Perfect for everyday cheeseboards
• Grated or sliced into sandwiches
• Served simply with bread and chutney
• Ideal introduction to traditional British cheeses

Why We Stock It

Idle Hour reflects the strength of British artisan cheesemaking, combining traditional recipes with careful modern production. Its balance of freshness, creaminess, and gentle complexity makes it widely appealing while retaining genuine character.

At The Norfolk Deli, we select cheeses that offer authenticity and versatility. Idle Hour delivers both — a cheese rooted in tradition, crafted with care, and consistently enjoyable.

 

  • Cheese Delivery Delayed?

    Cheese is a living, matured food. It is considerably more resilient than many people assume and was enjoyed for centuries before refrigerated transport existed.

    Read our Guide on what you need to know about Cheese delivery delays Click Here

  • Trusted Cheesemonger

    For over 12 years, The Norfolk Deli has been immersed in cheese, recognised nationally as one of the country’s inspirational independent cheesemongers. Every cheese is selected and cut with care

  • Serving Guide

    As part of a cheeseboard, 250g typically serves 2–4 people. For gatherings of 4–6, a selection of three to five cheeses creates a more generous and varied board

The Norfolk Deli

Answering your everyday cheese questions

How long will this cheese last?

All cheeses are cut fresh at the counter and dispatched in insulated packaging.

For the best flavour, we recommend enjoying within 5–7 days of delivery. Hard cheeses may last longer if stored correctly.

How should I store this cheese?

Keep refrigerated in its original wrapping or waxed paper. Avoid airtight plastic containers. Always bring to room temperature 30–45 minutes before serving for the best flavour and texture.

Is this cheese suitable for freezing?

We don’t recommend freezing soft or blue cheeses as it can affect texture. Hard cheeses may be frozen for cooking purposes, but flavour is best when enjoyed fresh.

What if my cheese has mould on it?

Mould is a natural part of many artisan cheeses.

If the cheese is meant to have a white rind, blue veining or natural mould, this is completely normal and part of its character.

If you notice surface mould on a hard cheese, it can usually be trimmed away safely — simply cut at least 1cm around and beneath the mould.

If mould appears on a soft cheese that is not intended to have mould, or if you are unsure, please contact us and we will advise.

We only dispatch cheeses in excellent condition, selected at peak maturity.

Is this cheese safe during pregnancy?

Pasteurised cheeses are generally considered safe. If a cheese is unpasteurised, this will be clearly stated in the Key Facts section. If unsure, please consult current NHS guidance

Can I request a specific size?

Weights are approximate to ensure fairness and quality. If you require a specific size for an event, please contact us before ordering.

Can this cheese be included in a hamper or cheeseboard selection?

Yes. Many of our cheeses are available in curated cheeseboards, gift hampers or our Cheesemonger’s Selection.