10 Traditional British Biscuits You Need to Try Before You Die

From the first bite of a buttery shortbread to the sweet crumble of a custard cream, traditional British biscuits offer more than just a teatime treat — they carry generations of culture, comfort, and culinary pride. Whether you’re a lifelong lover of British bakes or just beginning your biscuit journey, this list serves as a delicious guide to the UK’s most beloved classics. Each biscuit has earned its place in history and on the nation’s plate — and here are 10 you simply must try before you die.

Digestives

Arguably the most famous biscuit in Britain, the Digestive is humble and iconic. Originally developed in the 19th century to aid digestion (hence the name), these semi-sweet wholewheat biscuits are ideal for dunking into tea. They’re also the base of choice for many British cheesecake recipes — versatile and comforting.

Rich Tea

A true teatime staple, Rich Tea biscuits are crisp, light, and mildly sweet. Often enjoyed by those who appreciate a subtle flavour, they’ve been a go-to biscuit for generations. While they may lack flair compared to posh biscuits, their simplicity is what many find appealing.

Custard Creams

With a sweet vanilla-flavoured fondant sandwiched between two intricately designed biscuits, Custard Creams are as decorative as they are delicious. Their Victorian elegance makes them a nostalgic favourite, often leading the pack in national “favourite biscuit” polls.

Bourbon Creams

Named after the French royal House of Bourbon (but wholly British in origin), these chocolate-flavoured sandwich biscuits are filled with a smooth cocoa cream. Affordable yet indulgent, Bourbons have remained a supermarket shelf classic for decades.

Shortbread

Hailing from Scotland, shortbread is rich, buttery, and satisfyingly crumbly. Traditionally made from just three ingredients — flour, sugar, and butter — this biscuit embodies simple luxury. Shortbread is a true symbol of British heritage, served during holidays, weddings, and even royal events.

Jammy Dodgers

Bright and playful, Jammy Dodgers feature a layer of raspberry (or strawberry) jam sealed between two shortcake biscuits, one with a heart-shaped window. A longtime children’s favourite, they’ve become a quirky hit among adults craving nostalgic joy.

Hobnobs

Oaty, hearty, and slightly sweet, Hobnobs are the rustic cousin of the Digestive. Their crumbly texture and wholesome flavour make them perfect with a strong cup of tea. Variants with chocolate coatings add a rich twist to this already satisfying biscuit.

Lincoln Biscuits

Lesser-known outside the UK, Lincoln biscuits are crunchy, rectangular, and lightly sprinkled with sugar. Their no-frills appearance hides a delightful crunch that makes them ideal for cheese pairing or a light snack.

Garibaldi Biscuits

Also known as “squashed fly biscuits” due to their appearance, Garibaldis feature a layer of currants pressed between two thin layers of biscuit dough. Named after Italian general Giuseppe Garibaldi, these biscuits have a unique chewy texture and the right amount of fruity zing.

Farmhouse Biscuits

Not just a brand, Farmhouse Biscuits represent a wholesome baking tradition rooted in rural England. These biscuits often feature rustic ingredients like oats, fruit, and spices. Whether enjoyed as ginger snaps or fruit shortcakes, they bring an old-fashioned, homemade charm to any biscuit tin.

Conclusion

These ten traditional British biscuits tell a story far beyond their crumbs. Each represents Britain’s culinary heritage — from aristocratic roots to factory-made family favourites. While some shine with rich butter and cream, others charm us with simplicity and nostalgia.

So next time you sit down for a cuppa, consider swapping your usual cookie for one of these British classics. Whether a Custard Cream’s elegance or a Hobnob’s oaty delight, a biscuit is worth your bucket list.

Biscuit lovers, your journey through Britain’s finest is just beginning. Which one will you try first?