From the moment Ruth Hansom first rolled up her sleeves as a child to help in her family’s kitchen in Darlington, it was clear she was destined for a life in food. What began with growing fruits and vegetables in her parents’ back garden soon blossomed into a lifelong passion for flavour, seasonality, and creativity – setting her on a journey to the very top of British gastronomy.
A standout talent from the start, Ruth competed in the Future Chef competition as a teenager – an experience that opened the door to a world of opportunity. By the age of sixteen, she was on a train to London, determined to carve out her path as a chef. Her apprenticeship at the iconic Ritz London, through the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, laid the foundations for her distinctive style – one that balances precision and artistry with an unwavering respect for provenance.
What followed was a meteoric rise through the culinary world. Ruth became the first-ever female Young National Chef of the Year, represented the UK at the World Skills Finals, and reached the finals of BBC’s Great British Menu. Her leadership at The Princess of Shoreditch cemented her reputation as one of the country’s most exciting young chefs, earning the restaurant 3 AA Rosettes and a place in the Michelin Guide.
After a decade in London, Ruth returned to her North Yorkshire roots with a renewed sense of purpose. In February 2024 she opened Hansom Restaurant in Bedale, North Yorkshire to critical acclaim, including being named number one in Giles Coren’s Top 10 Restaurants of the Year 2025 in The Times.
After a decade in London, Ruth returned to her North Yorkshire roots with a renewed sense of purpose. In February 2024, she opened Hansom Restaurant in Bedale to critical acclaim, including being named number one in Giles Coren’s Top 10 Restaurants of the Year 2025 in The Times.
Her food is a celebration of ultra-seasonal, ingredient-led cooking rooted in provenance and her love of the land that first inspired her.
True to her reputation for innovation and seasonality, Ruth’s latest venture takes her creative instincts in an entirely new direction. Hansom Ice Cream is a bold exploration of flavour – a range of savoury ice creams and sorbets designed to surprise the palate and elevate every dish. Inspired by her love of British ingredients and her commitment to craftsmanship, Ruth reimagines familiar flavours – herbs, roasted vegetables, artisan cheeses – as creamy, ingredient-led accompaniments that transform the dining experience.
Available to both home cooks and the restaurant industry, Hansom Ice Cream makes it effortless to bring a touch of fine-dining creativity to any plate. Each scoop is made using the finest local produce, crafted to complement rather than compete – adding depth, balance, and intrigue to everything from elegant starters to indulgent mains.
Sustainability remains at the heart of Ruth’s approach. Every batch reflects her belief in responsible sourcing, minimal waste, and a respect for nature’s rhythm. Just as Hansom Restaurant celebrates the beauty of the seasons, Hansom Ice Cream captures them – one unexpected flavour at a time.
Beetroot and Pomegranate Sorbet
Made with handpicked cherry tomatoes, this delicate creation balances sun-warmed sweetness with a delicious bright and elegant tang.
Intense, sweet black garlic with notes of balsamic. A smooth and creamy palate.
An earthy flavour with a surprising sweetness. Pairs perfectly with oily fish or cheese-based dishes. Light and juicy on the palate.
A strong flavour that packs a punch. Adds a little excitement and a new dimension to a myriad of dishes.
Tangy with bursts of sea salt, looking to be paired with sweet vegetables.
Savoury, creamy, and utterly unexpected – our ice cream and sorbets are created using the finest herbs, vegetables, and local artisan cheeses… as delicious as they are inventive.
We’re excited to share our savoury ice cream with businesses looking for something truly unique. Whether you’re a restaurant, café, or retailer, we’d love to explore how our flavours can complement your offerings.
