Abbeyshrule Beekeepers scoop top prize at the Great Taste Awards

A local honey brand has struck gold at this year’s prestigious Great Taste Awards. The Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd, based in Abbeyshrule, Co. Longford, located on the Westmeath border, has been internationally recognised for its exceptional raw honey.

The family-run business, operated by Pat and Fiona McCormack, took home a coveted 3-star award, the highest honour available, for its Raw Ivy Blossom Honey, and a 1-star award for its Raw Summer Honey, in what is considered the world’s most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme.

Their Ivy Blossom honey, produced by native Irish bees foraging within 20km of Abbeyshrule, wowed judges who described it as a "splendid product".

"The floral notes open up with great intent and stay long on the palate. This honey has so much character and flavour we could readily eat it by the spoonful," they said.

The recognition is no small feat. Over 14,000 products from 110 countries were blind-tasted by more than 500 judges across 110 days. Just 273 products worldwide achieved the coveted 3-star status, marking The Farmhouse as one of the top food and drink producers globally in 2025.

While the business is Longford-based, its proximity to Westmeath means its products are widely available and loved by local consumers.

Following the announcement of the awards, business owner Fiona McCormack expressed her delight and pride at receiving such prestigious recognition.

“This is a moment we have only dreamed of. We are incredibly proud to bring this honour home to Abbeyshrule, and we are so grateful to the communities across Longford, Westmeath, and Offaly for their ongoing support.”

Founded officially in 2022, Pat and Fiona’s bee-keeping journey began in 2019 with a single hive. The business has since expanded, producing five varieties of raw, coarsely filtered honey, as well as pure beeswax candles and native trees. Their operation is rooted in sustainability, with eco-friendly packaging, a dedicated conservation area for native Irish bees, and a strong commitment to biodiversity.

Their bees forage on wildflowers like dandelion, whitethorn, clover, and ivy, plants that are abundant across the regions of Westmeath and Longford.

For those looking to taste the award-winning honey themselves, products are available through local stockists or online at www.thefarmhouse.ie.