Where to Buy Honey in the UK | Best Places for Pure & Raw Honey

Honey is a staple in many households, valued for its natural sweetness, health benefits, and versatility. Whether you’re looking for raw honey, organic honey, or rare varieties like Manuka honey, the UK offers plenty of options. From local markets to online stores, you can find high-quality honey that suits your needs. This guide explores the best places to buy honey in the UK and what to look for when purchasing.

1. Local Farmers’ Markets

Farmers' markets are some of the best places to find fresh, unprocessed honey. Local beekeepers often sell their honey directly to consumers, ensuring you get pure and high-quality products. Some popular farmers’ markets in the UK include:

• Borough Market (London) – A renowned market offering artisanal products, including local honey.

• Winchester Farmers’ Market – One of the largest farmers' markets in the UK, with local honey producers.

• Stroud Farmers’ Market – Known for its organic and locally sourced products, including honey.

Buying from farmers’ markets supports local beekeepers and helps sustain ethical and sustainable beekeeping practices.

2. Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Major supermarkets in the UK stock a wide range of honey, from budget-friendly options to premium brands. Some top choices include:

• Tesco – Offers a variety of honey, including organic and raw honey.

• Sainsbury’s – Stocks different types of honey, including set, clear, and Manuka honey.

• Waitrose – Known for high-quality food products, including premium honey brands.

• Marks & Spencer – Sells high-end honey varieties, including locally sourced options.

While supermarket honey is convenient, always check labels to ensure you're getting genuine, unprocessed honey.

3. Online Retailers

Shopping online offers access to a broader selection of honey, including rare and specialty varieties. Some of the best online platforms include:

• Amazon UK – A vast selection of honey from different brands and independent sellers.

• The Raw Honey Shop – Specializes in organic, unprocessed honey.

• Buy Wholefoods Online – Offers raw, organic, and ethically sourced honey.

• Holland & Barrett – Stocks premium honey brands, including Manuka honey.

• Bee Mercy – Sells raw and unfiltered honey from sustainable sources.

Ordering online allows you to compare brands, read customer reviews, and find specific honey types that may not be available locally.

4. Health Food Stores

If you're looking for high-quality, raw, or organic honey, health food stores are a great option. Some notable health food stores in the UK include:

• Holland & Barrett – A well-known retailer offering a variety of natural honey options.

• Planet Organic – Specializes in organic and ethically sourced honey.

• Whole Foods Market – Carries a range of high-end, raw, and Manuka honey.

Health food stores often provide honey that is free from additives and processing, making them a great choice for those seeking pure honey.

5. Direct from Beekeepers and Honey Farms

Many UK honey farms sell honey directly to consumers, ensuring freshness and quality. Some well-known honey farms include:

• The London Honey Company – Offers raw, single-origin honey from British beekeepers.

• Black Bee Honey – Specializes in raw British honey with ethical sourcing.

• Buckland Honey – A family-run business offering local honey.

• Just Bee Honey – Provides natural honey infused with vitamins.

Buying directly from beekeepers supports sustainable beekeeping and ensures that you're getting pure, unprocessed honey.

6. Specialty and Artisan Stores

Many independent stores in the UK focus on high-quality and artisanal honey. These stores often stock unique and rare varieties, including:

• Fortnum & Mason – Offers a luxurious selection of honey, including UK-sourced varieties.

• Harrods – Stocks premium and rare honey brands.

• The Hive Honey Shop (London) – Specializes in raw, organic, and infused honey.

If you’re looking for gourmet honey, specialty stores are an excellent place to explore rare and high-end options.

7. Manuka Honey Retailers

Manuka honey is a highly sought-after honey variety known for its antibacterial properties. Some of the best places to buy Manuka honey in the UK include:

• Manuka Doctor – A trusted brand for authentic Manuka honey.

• Comvita UK – One of the leading Manuka honey suppliers.

• Holland & Barrett – Stocks reputable Manuka honey brands.

• Steens Manuka Honey – Specializes in raw and high-quality Manuka honey.

When buying Manuka honey, check the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating to ensure its authenticity and effectiveness.

What to Look for When Buying Honey

When purchasing honey, consider the following factors to ensure you're getting the best quality:

• Raw vs. Processed – Raw honey is unpasteurized and retains more nutrients and enzymes.

• Organic Certification – Look for organic labels if you prefer pesticide-free honey.

• Traceability – Check for source transparency to ensure ethical and sustainable sourcing.

• Packaging – Opt for glass jars over plastic for better preservation and reduced environmental impact.

• Sugar Content – Avoid honey with added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer locally sourced, organic, or specialty honey, the UK offers a wealth of options. Farmers' markets, supermarkets, online stores, and specialty retailers all provide a variety of honey to suit different tastes and needs. For the best quality, consider buying directly from beekeepers or trusted health food stores. Always check labels and certifications to ensure authenticity and purity. Enjoy the natural goodness of honey in your daily diet, knowing you’ve chosen the best source available!