Britain's Best Loaf 2022 Winners & Highly Commended

Congratulations to all of our winning and highly commended loaves!

A Parmesan & Black Pepper Sourdough Loaf from Bakerman in Darlington has been crowned the overall winner of Britain’s Best Loaf 2022.

It fought off stiff competition from loaves across six categories – Gluten Free, Innovation, Plain Sourdough, Sourdough with Other Ingredients, White and Wholegrain – to secure the ultimate accolade.

The 2022 awards took place on 25 April at the Farm Shop & Deli Show at NEC Birmingham, and had no shortage of quality and skill on show from all of our wonderful entrants and their outstanding loaves.

Please see our full list of winners & highly commended loaves below...

Britain's Best Loaf 2022

Britain's Best Loaf 2022

Winner: Parmesan & Black Pepper Sourdough, Bakerman

Gluten Free

Gluten Free

Winner: Smoked Beetroot & Sweet Chilli Loaf, Stir Cambridge

This lovely loaf triumphed in a diverse category. The judges described it as an “attractive looking loaf with a great taste”. It was praised for its innovative use of ingredients, which included smoked beetroot, as well as the even and plentiful distribution of that ingredient.

Highly Commended: Gluten Free Seeded Loaf, Two Magpies Bakery

Innovation

Innovation

Winner: Turmeric, Red Onion & Nigella Seed Sourdough, Bakerman

This nicely baked loaf stood out thanks to its enticing aroma and vibrant colour, according to the judges, who also praised it for its beautful appearance.

Highly Commended: Turmeric Sourdough with Cranberries and Walnuts, The Baking Room

Plain Sourdough

Plain Sourdough

Winner: Everyday Sourdough, Bakehouse at Cakesmiths

This “ticked all the boxes for a wonderful plain sourdough”, according to the judging panel, who praised the loaf for its nice crust, attractive appearance and balanced flavour.

Highly Commended: White Sourdough, The Danish Bakery

Sourdough with Other Ingredients

Sourdough with Other Ingredients

Winner: Parmesan & Black Pepper Sourdough, Bakerman

The ultimate champion of Britain’s Best Loaf 2022 brought strong aroma and flavours to the competition. The pepper provides a punchy kick which complemented the parmesan, according to the judges, who were also impressed with the overall look of the loaf as well as the quality of the internal structure.

Highly Commended: Fruity Botanical Sourdough, Country Style

White

White

Winner: White Farmhouse Loaf, Elsie May's Cafe, Bar & Bakery

A good prove and good bake resulted in a soft white loaf which pleased the judges who believe this, combined with its appearance, has strong consumer appeal.

Highly Commended: White Tin Loaf, Seasons Bakery

Wholegrain

Wholegrain

Winner: Malted Barley Sourdough, Lovingly Artisan

The rustic look and delicious flavour made this loaf a standout in the wholegrain category, according to the judges.

Highly Commended: Watford Sour, Flourish Craft Bakery