How to Choose the Best Honey in the UK
The best honey to buy is one you enjoy eating, with a clear origin and a producer who can explain it. A useful starting point is to ask where it was produced, what flavour and texture to expect, and whether the jar suits the way you will use it.
We keep bees between Halstead and Toppesfield in Essex. Here is our practical guide to choosing honey, whether you are shopping locally or ordering online elsewhere in the UK.
1. Look for a clear place of origin
If you want British honey, look for a stated UK origin. A UK business address tells you where the seller is based; ask where the honey itself was produced if that is unclear. For local honey, a named county or area is more useful than a general countryside picture on a label.
Our 340g Essex honey jar comes from our apiaries near Halstead and Toppesfield. Ask Adam about the current crop if you would like more detail before ordering.
2. Choose a flavour and texture you enjoy
Honey varies with the flowers the bees visit and the season. You may prefer a delicate flavour for yoghurt and porridge, or something more pronounced for baking and cooking. Ask about the current batch, rather than assuming every jar from one beekeeper will taste exactly the same.
Think about texture too. Runny honey is handy for drizzling. Set honey is easy to spread. Honey can crystallise naturally, and the speed varies between varieties; being clear or set does not, on its own, prove quality or purity.
3. Ask what descriptions such as “raw” mean
If you are looking for raw or unfiltered honey, ask the producer how it was extracted, strained and warmed. A specific explanation helps you choose more confidently than a string of marketing terms.
We are happy to discuss the honey we have available. There is no need to guess from a photograph or the colour of a jar.
4. Read awards carefully
Look for the show, year and result behind an award claim. Willow Park Honey gained 3rd place in Essex at the National Honey Show 2025 for our light/clear honey. We are proud of that result, and of the care that goes into our beekeeping.
At the 2026 National Honey Show, Adam Lewin won first prize for medium honey and third prize for dark honey in the Essex members’ classes. Orla-Rose Lewin won third prize in the UK and Ireland class with two matching jars of our light, clear borage honey. Orla-Rose also received Highly Commended for her painted stone, bringing our family’s total to four awards.
Read our story to learn more about Willow Park Honey.
5. Compare the amount of honey and delivery cost
Jar sizes vary. Compare the price per 100g or per kilogram and include postage when comparing online orders. A larger order may suit a household that uses honey regularly, while a single jar lets you try a producer for the first time. Check the actual total rather than assuming a bundle always gives a discount.
- 340g jar: an everyday jar for your kitchen.
- Three 340g jars: 1.02kg of honey to use at home or share.
- 70g pouch: a compact option for work, picnics and days out.
Where can I buy local honey in Essex?
You can buy our honey from Greenstead Green Post Office, Petersfield Village Farm Shop in Gosfield and Gosfield Community Shop. See the stockist addresses and collection information. Please check current stock with the shop before a special journey.
Can I order Willow Park Honey elsewhere in the UK?
Yes. Shop our honey online for UK delivery. The available delivery services and charges appear at checkout for your address. Local collection near Halstead is also available by arrangement.
Keep your honey at its best
Store honey with the lid closed, in a dry cupboard at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Follow the label instructions. Our honey FAQs cover crystallisation, storage, collection and ordering.
Do not give honey to babies under 12 months. Read the NHS advice.
Ready to choose a jar? Browse Willow Park Honey or get in touch with a question.
