Hamblin Bread in Oxford among best bakeries in the UK

The list features the top 50 bakeries, with 22 new entries for 2026, and it’s “a line-up reflecting the extraordinary range and vitality of Britain’s modern baking scene”, according to the guide.

The Good Food Guide said the list “celebrates the nation’s boundary pushing artisans who are experimenting with regionally-grown, locally-milled heritage grains and who are introducing an increasingly broad range of global flavours to the Saturday morning pastry run.”

Hamblin Bread is one of the 50 bakeries featured, but it’s not one of the 22 new entries.

Hamblin Bread among best 50 bakeries in the UK

From sausage rolls to cardamom buns, the bakery has plenty of freshly baked goods, both sweet and savoury, for customers to enjoy.

Each week, you can check the stock and place orders for its Iffley Road bakery and Covered Market shop.

What do customers say about Hamblin Bread?

On Tripadvisor, where the bakery has a perfect 5-star rating from 14 reviews, customers have shared their experiences.

This person said: “The pastries here are always delicious, especially the cinnamon and cardamon buns.

“The coffee in the covered market shop is very good too, and the staff are brilliant – welcoming and friendly”.

Another commented: “Fabulous pastries!

“Cardamom bun, vanilla & lemon bun, and sausage roll were all fresh, moist, and delicious!

“Highly recommend. :)”

This customer said the bakery is “Willy Wonka for adults”, adding: “A tiny bakery with a small range of offerings in an austere but beautiful setting.

“The lunchtime roll (mortadella, salad and fantastic mayo) was an impulse buy.

“Quickly followed by a cinnamon bun and a glorious piece of goats cheese.

“All gorgeous. But the bread!

“Oh such sourdough is rare to find! This is a gem.”

Over on Google Reviews, customers have also been impressed (4.9 stars from 250 reviews) with one sharing: “Everytime i’m in Oxford, i’ll make sure i pick up a house loaf and bring it all the back with me to Germany.

“The bread is one of the best classic English sourdoughs money can buy.

“It is good even up to 5-7days.

“If Michelin guide gives stars to bakers, then this is a definite 3 stars, deserving of a special trip.”

A regular customer said: “OMG. The most amazing cinnamon scroll I’ve ever had , the most beautiful treats, gorgeous bread and pizza slices.

“Such friendly staff.

Recommended reading:

“I can’t wait to go back tomorrow morning for the best scroll & plum and apple tart.

“Absolute heaven.”

You can find the bakery at 247 Iffley Road, OX4 1SJ or visit the Covered Market store at Avenue 2, The Covered Market, Market Street, OX1 3DZ.

What’s your favourite treat from Hamblin Bread? Tell us your recommendations in the comments below.