Our Story

From kitchen table to top shelves — Hilltop now redefining honey with heart and heritage.

"Born from a beekeeping hobby in 2011, I started out labelling jars of honey from my parents kitchen table. Since then the brand has grown to become the second-largest honey brand in the UK. Hilltop has expanded across ranges and retailers across the UK and beyond and is still proudly 100% owned by me and located in my hometown of Newtown, Mid-Wales.

We’ve come a long way since Mum & Dads. At Hilltop we're dedicated to celebrating Honey, the artistry of beekeeping and the provenance of our products and I’m excited to say we’re here to take the Honey category up a notch, offering expertise and a passion for quality that sets us apart."

Our Journey

  • 2011

  • 2013

  • 2014

  • 2015

  • 2016

  • 2017

  • 2019

  • 2020

  • 2021

  • 2021 a

  • 2021 b

  • 2022

  • 2022 a

  • 2022 b

  • 2022 c

  • 2023

  • 2023 a

  • 2024

  • 2024 a

  • 2024 b

  • 2025

HILLTOP FOUNDED
2011

Following a back injury, which saw him out of work, and a birthday gift, his very first hive, Scott found himself fascinated by bees. He jarred up his hard work from that summer and shared the golden nectar with his friends and family. Much to his surprise, the local shops wanted in on this too. Want to know more about Scott and his journey? 

 

Learn more here.

THE TEAM BLOSSOMED
2013

After two years set up as a sole trader, things started getting real, the time came to expand and Scott made the plunge hiring his first employee. Gulp. Things started moving at pace and Hilltop started supplying countless independent farm shops & deli’s across the country.

RETAIL EXPANSION
2014

A big year for Hilltop as the range grew along with us, we launched an exciting selection of British, Cut Comb and Organic Honey ranges into major UK retailers, including Sainsbury's, Holland & Barrett, Selfridge's and online at Amazon and Ocado. Hilltop quickly expanded their range to include Speciality and Manuka honey varieties, along with bee pollen and delicious cut comb. Available in reusable glass jars and 100% recyclable easy squeezy bottles.

ORGANICALLY CERTIFIED
2015

An exciting step forward for Hilltop, with the launch of our new range of Organic Honey. After working closely with the Soil Association and receiving Organic approval that all standards and production requirements were met, we could be confident that our new range both tastes delicious and is kind to the environment too.

GREAT TASTE WINNERS
2016

Taking home 3 Great Taste Winners - 1 star awarded for the Spanish Thyme Honey, 1 star awarded for the Spanish Orange Blossom Honey, and 1 star awarded for the Mexican Yucatan Honey - plus we gained a Golden Fork for the Spanish Thyme Honey.

A NEW HILLTOP HQ
2017

As Hilltop scaled, our next big move was from our 3,000 sq ft. location in Caersws, Mid Wales to our new 14,000 sq ft. HQ in Newtown, based just down the road. Located in a rural area, community is at the heart of everything we do, from sponsoring our local football team to donating 25% of the profit for the sales of our Adopt a Bee with the Honeypot Charity.

TECH US OUT
2019

2019 was the year that Hilltop products became Kosher certified by the KLBD, we achieved a Grade A for our first BRC Audit, we began in-house authenticity testing on honey and expanded our Technical Team welcoming our new Head of Technical - A big year for crafting our technique.

HILLTOP REBRAND
2020

As Hilltop continue to expand into new categories with the launch of Maple Syrup, we took the plunge to update the look and feel of our packaging and begin the transition from Hilltop Honey to simply, Hilltop. Although our look had a dramatic changed, our product quality and delicious taste remained the same.

HILLTOP ENERGY
2021

Knowing that Honey is a natural source of energy, we branched out into a new category launching with 'Hilltop Energy' a range of all natural Energy Gels. Hilltop is working with Dr Jamie Pugh of Liverpool John Moores University, in a unique long term study to compare the benefits of taking a natural product for energy vs a man made.

GREAT TASTE WINNERS
2021

Not one product but FOUR were awarded stars in 2021. Hilltop is no stranger to a Great Taste Award and we are thrilled to have been recognised again in 2021. Organised by The Guild of Fine Food, The Great Taste Awards act as an acknowledged benchmark for fine food and drink, with each star recognising that the product is delicious and delivers fantastic flavour.

NEW HILLTOP HQ
2021

As our business has grown we have outgrown another Hilltop HQ and off we flew to a bigger and better premises, just down the road in Newtown, Wales. Our new state of the art facility now has the capacity to fill around 75 percent of the UK's honey demand. Learn more here.

OSPREYS OFFICIAL GEL PARTNER
2022

We're buzzing to announce that we're the official gel partner of Ospreys for their 22/23 season. We are also the proud player sponsor of current Welsh international, ex Irish Lions and Ospreys flanker Dan Lydiate. Bee sure you’re in the loop as we embark on our journey together. Learn more here.

ACCREDITED AA BRC
2022

We are pleased to be able to tell you that we have achieved a AA grade for our BRCGS Audit. BRCGS Food Safety provides a framework to manage product safety, integrity, legality, quality, and operational controls for these criteria in the food manufacturing, processing, and packing industry. BRCGS Food Safety is recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI); successful certification enables access to key markets. Learn more about our food safety certifications here.

GREAT TASTE AWARD WINNERS
2022

We are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded ELEVEN Great Taste Awards by the prestigious Guild of Fine Food, 2022! 

 

Hilltop is no stranger to a Great Taste Award, and we are over the moon to have been recognised yet again in 2022. Organised by the @guildoffinefood, The Great Taste Awards act as an acknowledged benchmark for fine food and drink, with each star recognising that the product is delicious and delivers fantastic flavour.

B CORP CERTIFIED
2022

B CORP CERTIFIED It's official! Hilltop is now B Corp Certified and we're the FIRST honey brand in the UK to do this. 

 

We've joined over 5,000 businesses across the globe who are using their business as a force for good. After a few years in the making, we are so un-bee-lievably proud of this achievement. Every aspect of our business has been examined to ensure we meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. 

 

Want to know more about our status? Click here.

SCALE UP COMPANY OF THE YEAR
2023

The Wales Food & Drink Scale up Company award recognises those Welsh businesses that can demonstrate high rates of growth and industry-leading innovations, while making a significant impact in the food and drink sector. And we’ve won it two years in a row! 

 

A big thank you to Food and Drink Awards Wales and all the judges and sponsors for organising such an amazing event.

GREAT TASTE AWARD WINNERS
2023

We are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded FOUR Great Taste Awards by the prestigious Guild of Fine Food, 2023. 

 

⭐️ 2 star - Manuka MGO 200+ 

⭐️ 2 star - Manuka MGO 250+ 

⭐️ 2 star - Manuka MGO 800+ 

⭐️ 1 star - Cut Comb Slab Honey

NATIONAL RETAILERS
2024

We’re thrilled to be able to say we’re now part of the Asda family and in the Top 3 supermarket retail chains in the UK, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and now Asda. Hilltop Honey Everyday Blossom 340g and 720g have now hit the shelves nationwide.

OUR NEW LOOK
2024

At Hilltop, we're dedicated to celebrating Honey, the artistry of beekeeping and the provenance of our products. Although our look has had a big change, our quality and delicious taste remain the Hilltop you all know and love.

FOR HONEY HEADS
2024

Our 'For Honey Heads' campaign went live in October! 

 

For the all Honey Heads out there—those who appreciate quality and crave the best honey there is to offer - Hilltop Honey isn’t just a choice, it’s an obsession. Why not taste the difference our passion makes and try our award-winning honey varieties?

Hilltoppers Launch
2025

Introducing Hilltoppers. A sensational range of spreadable honeys crafted to revolutionise your toast and awaken your taste buds.

 

Made with 100% natural ingredients, Hilltoppers is a healthier choice, free from hidden sugars and additives commonly found in other spreads.

 

Hilltoppers are the official go-to for the best toast topper. Available to purchase here

Raw & Unfiltered

Sustainable

Organic

Manuka

Nutrient Rich

Our Blog & Recipe

Read All Blogs

When it comes to sweeteners, honey often gets praised as the more natural, health-conscious choice. But is it really better than sugar? Whether you're stirring it into tea or baking a cake, knowing the differences can help you make more informed (and delicious) decisions.

In this guide, we break down how honey compares to sugar in terms of nutrition, taste, and health impact, with tips on when and how to use each one.

What Is Honey?

Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees from nectar. It’s made up mostly of sugars (primarily fructose and glucose), along with small amounts of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants.

Depending on the flowers visited by the bees, the flavour, texture, and colour of honey can vary, from light and floral to dark and rich. At Hilltop, we keep it simple: 100% pure honey, exactly as nature intended.

What Is Sugar?

Table sugar (or sucrose) is usually extracted from sugar cane or sugar beet and goes through heavy refining. It contains no additional nutrients or enzymes and is primarily made up of equal parts glucose and fructose.

Unlike honey, sugar is a single-ingredient product that delivers quick sweetness but nothing more.

Nutritional Comparison: Honey vs Sugar

Nutrient Honey (1 tbsp ~21g) Sugar (1 tbsp ~12.5g)
Calories ~64 kcal ~49 kcal
Total Sugars ~17g ~12.5g
Antioxidants Yes No
Vitamins & Minerals Yes None

Honey does contain slightly more calories and sugar per tablespoon, but also brings added goodness in the form of antioxidants and trace nutrients.

Is Honey Healthier Than Sugar?

In moderation, honey is generally considered a more wholesome option. Especially when it’s raw or lightly filtered, honey may offer benefits sugar doesn’t:

  • Lower Glycaemic Index (GI): Honey’s GI is around 58, while sugar is 60–65. This means honey may cause a slower rise in blood sugar.
  • Antioxidant Benefits: Honey contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
  • Soothing Properties: Natural honey is often used for sore throats and cough relief — something sugar can’t offer.

Still, honey is a sugar and should be consumed mindfully.

Can You Swap Honey for Sugar in Recipes?

Yes — but keep a few adjustments in mind:

  • Use ¾ cup of honey for every 1 cup of sugar.
  • Reduce liquids in the recipe by about ¼ cup.
  • Lower baking temperature by 10°C to avoid over-browning.

Want to try it in something easy? These Homemade Pancakes are a great place to start.

Is All Honey the Same?

Not at all. At Hilltop, we believe in keeping honey simple and traceable. Here’s what to know:

  • Raw Honey: Unheated and unprocessed — full of natural enzymes and flavour.
  • Blended Honey: Often processed or blended, potentially losing nutritional value.

Explore our Raw Honey Collection for pure, unblended options.

Quick FAQs

Is honey better than sugar?

Honey contains trace nutrients and antioxidants that sugar doesn’t. It may also have a slightly lower glycaemic index — but both should be enjoyed in moderation.

Can I use honey in tea instead of sugar?

Absolutely. Honey adds a gentle sweetness and subtle floral notes. It dissolves easily in warm drinks and pairs well with lemon or herbs.

Is honey suitable for diabetics?

It’s still a form of sugar, so it will raise blood glucose levels. Anyone with diabetes should speak to a healthcare provider before switching sweeteners.

Final Thoughts

So, is honey better than sugar? For most people, the answer is yes. It offers a more natural sweetener with small but notable health advantages, especially if you choose raw or single-origin varieties.

Looking for a better everyday sweetener? Start with Hilltop Honey — a delicious, traceable alternative that brings real value to your cupboard.

Related Reads

You’ve seen it on toast, swirling into tea, and drizzled over your favourite Greek yoghurt. But beyond its golden charm and luscious flavour, you might be wondering, is honey good for you?

Short answer? Yes - in all the right ways. But let’s dig a little deeper and discover what makes honey more than just nature’s sweet treat.

A Natural Wonder, Straight from the Hive

First things first: honey is as natural as it gets. Made by some of the busiest bees in the business, it’s a product of pure flower nectar and patient craftsmanship. From wildflower honey collected in British meadows to acacia honey gathered from fragrant European forests, this sweet stuff is steeped in heritage and made with a little magic from Mother Nature.

But what does it really offer when it comes to health and well-being?

1. Packed with Antioxidants

Let’s start strong: honey is full of antioxidants, those powerful little compounds that help your body fight off damage from free radicals. In particular, darker varieties like buckwheat or forest honey contain higher levels of polyphenols, which support heart health and cell regeneration.

In everyday terms? You’re not just sweetening your porridge, you’re giving your body a helping hand. Go on, have a spoonful, for science, of course.

2. Naturally Antibacterial and Antifungal

One of honey’s most legendary properties is its ability to fight off nasties. That’s thanks to its low water content and the presence of hydrogen peroxide, which creates a hostile environment for bacteria and fungi. It’s been used for centuries to soothe wounds and burns, and today, you’ll still find medical-grade manuka honey used in wound dressings.

And while we’re not suggesting you empty your honey jar into the first-aid kit, it’s reassuring to know this pantry staple has a serious track record.

3. A Sweet Soother for Coughs and Colds

Coughing through a cold? Honey might be just the thing to help you feel a little more human. According to the NHS and various health bodies, honey is more effective at relieving night-time coughing than many over-the-counter remedies, especially for children (over the age of one, that is).

A spoonful before bed in a warm drink might just do the trick. Just don’t forget to say “ahh” when you sip.

4. Gentle on Digestion

Honey has been found to have prebiotic effects, meaning it can help feed the good bacteria in your gut. A healthy microbiome is increasingly linked to overall well-being — from digestion and immunity to mood. So, adding honey to your morning routine might support more than just your taste buds.

Try it in a smoothie, your overnight oats, or simply stirred into hot water with a squeeze of lemon.

But Wait - Is All Honey the Same?

Not quite. Like wine, chocolate, or coffee, honey’s character varies wildly depending on where it’s made, what flowers the bees feed on, and how it’s processed. Raw honey — that is, honey that hasn’t been heat-treated or ultra-filtered — retains more of its natural enzymes and nutrients. It’s like drinking orange juice with bits — rustic, real, and packed with goodness.

At Hilltop, we’ve tasted and tested honey from around the world to bring you the best of it, whether it’s lavender-kissed jars from Spain or zingy citrus blossom from Italy. We believe in keeping it pure, traceable and utterly delicious.

A Word of Caution (Especially for Little Ones)

While honey is a delightful and health-supporting addition to most diets, it’s not suitable for infants under 12 months. That’s because of the risk of infant botulism — a rare but serious condition caused by bacteria that can be present in honey. For older children and adults, though, there’s no need to worry.

And as with all things sweet, moderation is key. Yes, honey comes from flowers and bees, but it’s still a sugar. So swap it in for refined sugar when you can — but don’t pour it on by the pint.

So, Is Honey Good for You?

In a word? Absolutely.

It’s antioxidant-rich, naturally antibacterial, gentle on digestion, and delightfully comforting when you’re feeling under the weather. More than that, it connects us to a centuries-old craft, a story of bees, blossoms, and brilliant beekeepers.

From lazy Sunday breakfasts to a soothing bedtime brew, honey is more than a cupboard essential, it’s a spoonful of golden joy.

So go ahead. Stir it, swirl it, spread it. And know that when you reach for a jar of Hilltop Honey, you’re enjoying the sweeter side of nature — responsibly sourced, lovingly packed and always crafted with care.

Ready to Taste the Difference?

From bold blossom blends to delicately floral drizzles, our honeys are raw, pure, and packed with personality. This is honey as it should be — unfiltered, full-flavoured, and naturally delicious. 

Explore the Hilltop Honey Collection and find your new favourite jar today.

We all know honey is a delightful addition to our teas, toasts, and treats. But when your four-legged friend gives you those pleading eyes as you drizzle honey over your porridge, you might wonder: Can dogs eat honey?

Let's delve into the sweet truth about honey and our canine companions.

Is Honey Safe for Dogs?

Yes, in moderation, honey is generally safe for dogs. This natural sweetener is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, E, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Its natural sugars can provide a quick energy boost, making it a handy treat for active or aging dogs.

However, it's essential to remember that honey is still a form of sugar. Overindulgence can lead to weight gain or dental issues. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog's diet.

Potential Benefits of Honey for Dogs

1. Natural Energy Booster

The natural sugars in honey can offer a quick energy source for dogs, especially those who are active or recovering from illness.

2. Soothing for Throats

Just as honey can soothe a human's sore throat, it may help alleviate minor throat irritations in dogs.

3. Skin and Coat Health

Honey's antimicrobial properties can benefit skin health. Some pet owners use honey topically on minor cuts or burns, but always consult a vet before doing so.

Precautions to Consider

  • Puppies and Honey: Avoid giving honey to puppies under one year old. Their immature immune systems might not handle certain bacteria that can be present in raw honey.

  • Diabetic Dogs: Due to its sugar content, honey isn't suitable for diabetic dogs.

  • Allergic Reactions: While rare, some dogs might be allergic to bee products. Introduce honey in small amounts and monitor for any adverse reactions.

How to Introduce Honey to Your Dog's Diet

If you're considering adding honey to your dog's diet:

  1. Start Small: Begin with a tiny amount to see how your dog reacts.

  2. Mix It Up: Drizzle a small amount over their regular food or mix it into homemade dog treats.

  3. Limit Frequency: Treat honey as an occasional treat, not a daily supplement.

Choosing the Right Honey

Opt for raw, unprocessed honey. This ensures your dog receives the maximum nutritional benefits without added sugars or preservatives. At Hilltop Honey, our products are pure, natural, and crafted with care, ensuring both you and your furry friend enjoy the best nature has to offer.

In Conclusion

Honey can be a sweet, occasional treat for your dog, offering various health benefits when given responsibly. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods, and ensure you're providing the highest quality honey available.

Explore Our Natural Honey Collection

Looking to share the goodness of honey with your canine companion? Discover our range of pure, raw honeys, perfect for both you and your pet.

Browse the Hilltop Honey Collection