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If you love cheese, the UK is like a treasure map with X marking dozens of tasty spots. From crumbly farmhouse cheddars to silky soft blues, British cheese heritage runs deep — and it’s easy to get lost in the delicious options. Whether you’re making a last-minute picnic or building a show-stopping cheeseboard, the variety and quality are exceptional. I’ll walk you through the best places to buy cheese in the UK, how to assemble a winning hamper, and insider tips to store and serve cheese like a pro.
Menkind is often thought of for quirky gifts and novelty items, but it’s grown to include themed hampers — perfect when you want to give cheese with personality. If you’re seeking something fun like the “Penny Post Just Add Cheese Hamper,” Menkind-style offerings are ideal for birthdays, housewarmings, or an indulgent pick-me-up. These hampers usually combine British cheeses with artisan crackers, chutneys, and sometimes a cheeky gadget. They’re great when you want convenience plus a little flair.
Penny Post-style hampers focus on presentation and ease: you buy a curated selection and add fresh cheese at the last minute, or choose a complete package ready to gift. These kits are perfect if you’re short on time but still want to impress. Think of them as a sandwich box for grown-ups that swaps bread for wheels of cheddar and wedges of brie. For an extra special touch, pair with a local chutney, honey, or a small jar of pickled onions.
When you need cheese without the fanfare, supermarkets are reliable and convenient. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Morrisons, Marks & Spencer and Asda stock everything from budget-friendly block cheddar to premium British and continental cheeses. Waitrose and Marks & Spencer stand out for higher-end artisanal ranges and seasonal specials, while Lidl and Aldi often surprise with award-winning cheeses at wallet-friendly prices. If you like to buy in bulk, look for 8 oz to 2 lb packs to save money and keep a good variety on hand.
There’s something deeply satisfying about stepping into a specialist shop where the air smells faintly of caves and cultures. Neal’s Yard Dairy, Paxton & Whitfield, The Fine Cheese Co., and La Fromagerie are go-to names for anyone who wants expertise and rare finds. These shops offer carefully aged wheels, single-source farmhouse cheeses, and staff who can recommend pairings down to which cheddar will stand up to a robust ale. If you’re after crumbly farmhouse cheddar in a 1 lb wedge or a hand-cut wedge of Stilton, these specialists have you covered.
Neal’s Yard Dairy and The Fine Cheese Co. focus on provenance and traditional methods. They’ll often sell cheeses in ounce portions, so you can taste before committing to a whole 2 lb wheel. These shops are perfect for foodies who love to explore regional varieties and seasonal releases.
Paxton & Whitfield blends historic charm with expertise. Their selections are curated for pairing and gifting, making it a top choice if you want a classic British cheeseboard filled with creamy, nutty, and tangy textures.
Buying cheese online is a fantastic option if you want rare varieties shipped right to your door. Sites like Ocado and Amazon UK provide convenience, but specialist online retailers — such as The Cheese Society and artisan subscription boxes from Neal’s Yard Dairy — introduce you to cheeses you might never find in your local store. Subscriptions often send 3–5 sample sizes per box, typically between 1 oz and 4 oz each, letting you taste a range without committing to large quantities.
Ordering cheese online feels like opening a present: boxes arrive carefully packed with ice packs and protective wrapping. If you’re curating a gift or exploring new types, online shops are practical and often include tasting notes and pairing suggestions to guide you.
Want to impress at your next dinner? Think of a cheeseboard like an orchestra: you need a balance of textures and flavors. Aim for three to five cheeses and mix soft, hard, and blue varieties. For a party of 6–8, plan on 6–8 oz of cheese per person if cheese is the main attraction, or 3–4 oz per person as part of a larger spread. That might mean a 1 lb block of cheddar, a 8 oz wheel of brie, and a 6 oz wedge of Stilton to keep things interesting.
Balance is key: pair a tangy goat’s cheese with a sweet chutney, and a nutty Gruyère with crusty bread. For blues, think fig jam and walnuts. Adding textures — crunchy crackers, fresh apple slices, or a handful of grapes — makes the board feel complete. Think in terms of contrasts: creamy versus crunchy, salty versus sweet, mild versus pungent.
Slice or wedge cheeses just before serving to keep them fresh. Label each cheese so guests know what they’re tasting. Small, labeled cards work well and avoid the “what am I eating?” confusion. Use small knives dedicated to each cheese type to prevent flavor cross-contamination.
Pairing cheese is half art, half science. A classic rule is to match intensity: subtle cheeses with light drinks, powerful blues with full-bodied wines or ales. For example, a mild Brie pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a golden ale, while a robust cheddar stands up well to a rich porter or a full-bodied red. Don’t forget non-alcoholic options — sparkling apple juice or ginger beer can be delightful companions.
- Soft, creamy cheeses (brie, camembert): pair with sparkling wine, cider, or full-flavored white wine.
- Hard, aged cheeses (cheddar, manchego): try amber ales, robust reds, or apple-based drinks.
- Blue cheeses (Stilton, Roquefort): pair with fortified wines like port, sweet dessert wine, or bold ales.
- Goat cheeses: fresh herbaceous whites or light rosés highlight their tanginess.
Proper storage extends the life and flavor of cheese. Hard cheeses can often be stored for 2–4 weeks wrapped in parchment and then loosely in foil; softer cheeses are best consumed within a week of opening. Keep cheese in the vegetable drawer of your fridge at around 40°F to prevent it from drying out or picking up other odors. When buying larger amounts — say a 2 lb wheel for a party — cut into manageable wedges and wrap each wedge separately to avoid repeated exposure to air.
Use breathable paper for most cheeses; cling film can trap moisture and make soft cheeses soggy. If you must freeze cheese, choose hard varieties like aged cheddar. Freeze in 8 oz portions and thaw slowly in the fridge — texture may change slightly, but flavor usually holds up well for cooking.
Cheese hampers are thoughtful gifts that show you care about flavor and presentation. Start with a theme: British farmhouse, continental classics, or festive winter warmers. Include a mix of 6–12 oz cheeses, a jar of chutney or honey, artisan crackers, and a small bottle of pairing drink. Wrap items securely and consider adding a tasting card with descriptions and serving suggestions.
- The British Classic: 1 lb farmhouse cheddar, 8 oz Stilton, 8 oz Somerset brie, oatcakes, onion chutney.
- Continental Tour: 8 oz Manchego, 6 oz Parmigiano-Reggiano (shredded in small pieces), 6 oz Camembert, fig jam, rustic breadsticks.
- Romantic Night In: 8 oz triple cream brie, 6 oz blue cheese, artisan honey, a small bottle of dessert wine, chocolate on the side.
If you want to discover cheeses from small producers, seek out farmer’s markets, independent farm shops, and local cheesemakers. The West Country in England is famous for cheddar, while the Scottish Borders and the Isle of Mull offer unique island cheeses. Visiting markets or ordering direct from farm websites can score you one-of-a-kind batches often measured in ounces for sampling or in larger 1–3 lb wheels for serious aficionados.
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy great cheese. Look for supermarket own-brand matured cheddars, seasonal discounts, and multipack offers. Buying slightly larger wedges — for instance a 1 lb wedge instead of three 6 oz pieces — often reduces the price per ounce. Also, try blending a premium piece with a budget-friendly option on your board; surprise and delight come from contrast, not cost.
Cheese elevates everyday cooking. Sprinkle grated cheddar over a baked potato, stir a generous handful of grated Parmesan into risotto, or melt a slice of Gruyère on onion soup. For salads, crumble goat’s cheese over beets and walnuts. When cooking, remember that high-heat melts work best with semi-hard cheeses, while creamy table cheeses are best added at the end to preserve texture.
- Cheesy Toast: thick crusty bread topped with 2–3 oz grated cheddar, broiled until bubbly.
- Ploughman’s Plate: 3–4 oz each of cheddar, pickled onions, apple slices, and crusty bread.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: fold 2 oz crumbled blue into 4 oz sour cream for a punchy salad topper.
From the curious hampers at novelty retailers to the carefully curated selections of specialist cheesemongers, the UK offers a cheese experience for every taste and budget. Whether you’re building a quick midweek sandwich or crafting an elaborate cheeseboard for a dinner party, shops like Menkind for gift-style hampers, alongside supermarkets and artisan purveyors, provide endless options. With a little knowledge about pairing, storing, and presenting cheese, you’ll turn ordinary moments into memorable feasts. So go on — explore new varieties, support local makers, and let cheese be the star of your next gathering.
| Cheese | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Penny Post Just Add Cheese Hamper | £ 13,- | |
| Wallace & Gromit Cheeses Of The World Kit | £ 40,- |
