An Honest Review of Haddrell’s of Cambridge Manuka Honey (2025)

As someone who regularly uses Manuka honey, I’m always on the lookout for new and intriguing brands to try. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for this unique honey, not just for its flavor but also for its numerous health benefits. So, when I stumbled upon Haddrell’s of Cambridge, I was excited to give it a try. This brand, founded in 1993 by Richard and Moira Haddrell, started with just fifteen beehives and a passion for quality honey. Today, they’ve grown significantly, and their Manuka honey is now exported globally, known for its purity and authenticity.

In this review, I’ll be focusing on their UMF 20+ variety, one of the higher grades they offer. I’ll walk you through my experience with this product, covering everything from taste and texture to packaging and value. By the end, I hope to give you a clear idea of what you can expect from Haddrell’s Manuka honey.

Taste and Appearance

The first thing that struck me about Haddrell’s Manuka honey was its taste. It’s incredibly delicious, offering a flavor that’s distinctly different from your average honey. There’s an earthy undertone that gives it a unique character, making it a treat whether you’re adding it to your morning tea or just taking a spoonful on its own.

The texture is another standout feature. This honey is smooth and velvety, with a light golden hue that makes it visually appealing. Every morning, I enjoy a warm cup of Manuka honey and lemon, and this particular brand has become a staple in my routine. Its soothing properties are also a blessing for sore throats, which is something I often rely on it for.

Grades Available

When it comes to Manuka honey, the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) is a crucial quality indicator. Haddrell’s is a licensed UMF™ certified producer, meaning their honey meets the strict standards set by the UMF Honey Association. Their license number, #1027, attests to the legitimacy of their certification. This certification isn’t just a label; it’s a guarantee of authenticity and effectiveness.

Haddrell’s offers a wide range of UMF grades to suit different needs and preferences, including UMF 5+, UMF 10+, UMF 13+, UMF 16+, UMF 20+, UMF 22+, and UMF 25+. The UMF 20+ variety, which I tried, is particularly potent and is one of their higher-grade offerings. Additionally, they have other Manuka honey products like lozenges, which are great for soothing coughs and sore throats or providing a natural energy boost.

Purity and Authenticity

One of the most important aspects of Manuka honey is its purity and authenticity, and Haddrell’s of Cambridge does not disappoint in this regard. Their honey is a genuine product of New Zealand, where the Manuka tree is native. It’s raw and unpasteurized, ensuring that it retains all of its natural enzymes and antibacterial properties. The honey is also non-GMO, Kosher, and certified Halal by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Haddrell’s takes pride in their minimal processing approach, which includes no overheating or pasteurizing, ensuring that the honey remains as natural as possible. The company’s commitment to quality is further demonstrated by their adherence to the SQF (Safe Quality Food) Food Safety Programme and their participation in New Zealand’s RMP (Risk Management Programme). These certifications give consumers peace of mind, knowing that they are purchasing a product that is not only authentic but also produced under stringent safety standards.

Brand Reputation

Haddrell’s of Cambridge has built a solid reputation over the years, thanks to their commitment to ethical beekeeping and the quality of their products. Starting with just a handful of beehives, they’ve expanded to manage approximately 10,000 hives located in some of New Zealand’s prime Manuka forests. Their dedication to sustainable and ethical practices has earned them recognition, including GOLD awards at the London International Honey Awards in both 2023 and 2024 for some of their higher UMF grades.

When I checked online reviews, Haddrell’s seemed to have decent ratings overall. While not the most widely known brand, those who have tried it generally appreciate its quality and effectiveness. This is a brand that clearly takes pride in what they do, and it shows in the end product.

Packaging and Size

Haddrell’s of Cambridge Manuka honey is thoughtfully packaged to ensure it reaches consumers fresh and intact. It comes in sturdy, BPA-free PET jars that are both safe for storage and effective at preserving freshness. I was particularly impressed by the secure seal upon arrival, which reinforced my confidence in the product’s quality.

Haddrell’s offers their Manuka honey in a variety of sizes to cater to different needs. You can choose from 250 grams, 500 grams, or even 1 kilogram jars. This flexibility is great because you can start with a smaller jar if you’re trying it for the first time, or go for a larger one if you’re already a fan. They also offer UMF 5+ and UMF 10+ in convenient snap packs, which are perfect for on-the-go use or for those who want to portion out their honey.

The labeling is clear and informative, providing all the necessary details such as the UMF rating, MGO (methylglyoxal) level, batch number, and company information. This transparency is something I value, as it allows me to trace the product back to its source and verify its authenticity.

Price and Value

When it comes to price, Haddrell’s Manuka honey is certainly on the higher end of the spectrum, especially the UMF 20+ variety, which costs around £90 for an 8.8-ounce jar. Compared to other brands, this is relatively expensive. However, it’s important to remember that high UMF grades are naturally more costly due to the stringent quality controls and the limited availability of high-grade Manuka honey.

One downside, though, is that Haddrell’s doesn’t offer direct purchasing from their website, which is something I’ve found convenient with other brands. Instead, you’ll need to buy it from online retailers or specialty stores, which can sometimes make it harder to find, especially if you’re looking for a specific UMF grade.

Despite the higher price, I believe the quality and effectiveness of this honey justify the cost, especially if you’re using it for its health benefits. However, it’s important to consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on premium honey.

Overall Rating

After thoroughly testing Haddrell’s of Cambridge Manuka honey, I can confidently say that it lives up to its reputation. The quality is evident from the first taste, and the brand’s commitment to purity and authenticity is reassuring. Whether you’re using it for its health benefits or simply as a luxurious addition to your diet, this honey is a standout choice.

However, the premium price and limited availability might make it less accessible for some. If budget isn’t a major concern and you’re looking for one of the best Manuka honey options on the market, Haddrell’s is definitely worth considering. I’d rate it a solid 4.5 out of 5, with the only minor deductions being for the cost and purchasing limitations.

For those who appreciate high-quality, authentic Manuka honey, Haddrell’s of Cambridge is a brand that should be on your radar. Whether it’s for daily use or as a thoughtful gift for a health-conscious friend or family member, this honey won’t disappoint.