Stinking Bishop Cheese

Britain’s most famous washed-rind cheese – bold, creamy, and utterly unforgettable

There are cheeses that make an impression… and then there’s Stinking Bishop, affectionately known across the country as “Smelly Bishop Cheese.” This iconic British washed-rind cheese has achieved legendary status among cheesemongers and food lovers alike — not just for its unmistakable aroma, but for its luxurious, creamy texture and surprisingly delicate flavour.

Handmade by Charles Martell & Son on their Gloucestershire farm, Stinking Bishop (or Smelly Bishop Cheese, as it’s often called) begins with milk from the rare Old Gloucester cattle, prized for its rich and characterful milk. During maturation, each wheel is carefully washed in perry made from the Stinking Bishop pear, a centuries-old Gloucestershire variety that lends both its name and distinctive aroma to this world-famous cheese.

The result is something truly special — a soft, spoonable cheese with a silky texture and a bold, savoury depth. Beneath its orange-pink rind lies a paste that’s smooth and buttery, offering gentle flavours of mushroom, cream, and earth, with a lingering umami finish. Its aroma may be assertive, but its taste is beautifully balanced — making it one of the most fascinating cheeses Britain has ever produced.

While Smelly Bishop cheese rose to international fame after appearing in Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, its reputation rests firmly on craftsmanship, not novelty. Every wheel is made by hand, matured with care, and reflects the true artistry of British farmhouse cheesemaking.

At The Norfolk Deli, we’re proud to include Stinking Bishop (Smelly Bishop Cheese) in our collection of the UK’s finest artisan cheeses. It’s the perfect centrepiece for a cheeseboard, ideal for serving with robust English ales, bold red wines, or sweet, sticky chutneys that enhance its creamy, savoury richness. Pair it with crusty bread, pickles, and cider or perry for a truly authentic farmhouse experience.

Whether you call it Stinking Bishop or Smelly Bishop Cheese, one thing’s certain — this is a cheese like no other. Bold, aromatic, and deeply comforting, it captures everything we love about traditional British cheesemaking: history, flavour, and pure indulgence in every bite.