Barry's Bay Cheese Factory
A delightful stop offering a wide variety of artisanal cheeses, free tastings, and a glimpse into the cheese-making process.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See cheese production in action
Barry's Bay Cheese Factory
Best Time
See cheese production in action
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A delightful stop offering a wide variety of artisanal cheeses, free tastings, and a glimpse into the cheese-making process.
"Highly recommended stop for a local taste of many types of cheese they produce."
🧀 Sample Before You Buy
Taste a variety of cheeses to find your favorites. Many are unique and delicious!
☕ Grab a Coffee
A great coffee cart is right outside, perfect for a pick-me-up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cheese Tasting Station
Sample a variety of delicious cheeses before making your selection. A true highlight for any cheese lover!
Bargain 'Oddities'
Find fantastic deals on perfectly good cheeses with minor cosmetic flaws. A budget-friendly way to stock up!
Cheese Production Viewing Window
Peek into the cheese-making process through a glass wall. Witness the magic happen firsthand!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Taste the Local Flavors
Friendly Service & Factory Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧀 Sample Before You Buy
Taste a variety of cheeses to find your favorites. Many are unique and delicious!
☕ Grab a Coffee
A great coffee cart is right outside, perfect for a pick-me-up.
👀 Watch the Production
Look for activity through the glass wall to see cheese being made.
💰 Look for Bargains
The 'misshapen oddities' are great value and taste just as good!
Tips
from all over the internet
🧀 Sample Before You Buy
Taste a variety of cheeses to find your favorites. Many are unique and delicious!
☕ Grab a Coffee
A great coffee cart is right outside, perfect for a pick-me-up.
👀 Watch the Production
Look for activity through the glass wall to see cheese being made.
💰 Look for Bargains
The 'misshapen oddities' are great value and taste just as good!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the delicious selection of cheeses, especially the unique flavors and the opportunity for free tastings. Many appreciate the chance to buy 'oddity' cheeses at bargain prices and enjoy the coffee cart. However, some have experienced less-than-welcoming service, with staff sometimes appearing disengaged.
"Good selection of cheeses, and some bargains to be had in the misshapen oddities. Great coffee cart right outside too."
Ali Booker
"Cheese samples delicious and lovely selection of crackers and cheese related products, boards, knives etc. however didn’t stop long or buy anything. Lady behind counter didn’t even look up and acknowledge us , we were the only two people there and thought that rude and unwelcoming ."
Ann Bulley
"It is highly recommended to stop here if you are travelling from Christchurch to Akaroa or vice versa. It's more as local company and they offer local taste to many types of cheese they produce, all of which can be bought onsite. We can taste the cheese for free, and of course there is no obligation to buy. There is a glass wall that separates the store and the factory, so I guess we can watch all the cheese production process (but there was no activity when we visited). We tasted and bought some cheese from here, and we like it. See pictures for details."
Masrizal Mahmud
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barry's Bay Cheese Factory is conveniently located on the scenic route between Christchurch and Akaroa. It's a popular stop for travelers making this journey. Driving is the most common way to access it, with ample parking available.
Yes, it's a recommended stop on some Akaroa bus tours, making it accessible for those not driving themselves. Check with your tour operator for details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Barry's Bay Cheese Factory store and viewing area is free. You only pay if you choose to purchase cheese or other products.
Absolutely! Free cheese samples are available, allowing you to try before you commit to a purchase. It's a great way to discover new favorites.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open during daylight hours, especially when tours are expected. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, there's a glass wall separating the store from the factory, allowing visitors to watch the cheese production process. However, activity levels can vary depending on the day and time of your visit.
Beyond their delicious cheeses, you can find a selection of crackers, cheese boards, knives, and other cheese-related products. It's a great place to pick up a souvenir or gift.
While the factory itself focuses on cheese, there's a highly recommended coffee cart right outside that serves great coffee and likely other light refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the scenic location offers beautiful views, and the cheese displays themselves can be quite photogenic. Capturing the cheese production through the viewing window can also make for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to check out the coffee cart for a treat for the adults (or even a hot chocolate for the kids!). It's a relatively quick stop, perfect for breaking up a longer car journey without overwhelming little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Grabbing a coffee from the cart outside is also generally more affordable than a sit-down cafe. It's a great place to pick up tasty, locally made souvenirs without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Cheese Making
This hands-on approach to showcasing their craft allows visitors to appreciate the dedication and skill involved. It's a chance to connect with the origins of the delicious products available for purchase, adding an educational layer to your visit. Remember to check if production is scheduled during your visit for the best experience.
A Culinary Stop for Travelers
Beyond the cheese itself, the factory also offers a selection of complementary products like crackers and cheese accessories. The presence of a coffee cart right outside adds to its appeal as a convenient and enjoyable stopover. Many visitors leave with bags full of cheese, a testament to the quality and variety on offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit