Business Details
29 Years
experience
Artisan Cheese Shop in Lincoln
The Cheese Society is a family-run business established in 1997, rooted in Lincoln's Cathedral Quarter. Founded by Kate O'Meara, whose background in hospitality and retail shaped the company's vision, we pioneered mail-order farmhouse cheese during the internet's infancy. Our 2001 relocation to St Martin's Lane introduced the UK's first cheese caf, offering an entirely cheese-based menu. Over decades, we've curated relationships with cheesemakers globally, judged at international cheese awards, and expanded our offerings to include seasonal subscriptions and artisan accompaniments.Led by Kate and her daughter Lucie, our team combines generational expertise with modern design sensibilities to deliver exceptional cheese experiences. We maintain rigorous quality standards, cutting and packing cheeses fresh to order while prioritising sustainable packaging solutions. Recognised through multiple industry awards, including Cheese Shop of the Year, we remain committed to sharing our passion for both traditional and innovative cheeses with local and global customers.
Services
Cheese Subscriptions
Cheese Gift Boxes
Cheese Wedding Cakes
Artisan Cheese Selection
Cheese Accompaniments
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Family-run expertise since 1997 with generational cheese knowledge
- Award-winning cheese selection including Cheese Shop of the Year
- Curated seasonal subscriptions with tasting notes and expert guidance
- Sustainable packaging solutions for all cheese deliveries
- UK's first cheese caf with entirely cheese-based menu
Associations and certifications
- Observer Food Monthly Awards
- The Guild of Fine Food
- Le Gruyere
What people say
Unique discoveries
Expert selections
Delicious deliveries
Perfect gift idea
Exceptional quality
Services
Cheese Subscriptions
Our curated cheese subscriptions deliver seasonal artisan cheeses directly to your door. Each month features unique selections from UK and continental dairies, including exclusive varieties unavailable individually. Subscribers receive tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and expert guidance with every delivery. The flexible service allows custom delivery schedules and gift options with personal messages.
Cheese Gift Boxes
Thoughtfully assembled cheese gift boxes cater to various occasions and preferences. Options include festive collections, regional specialities, and themed assortments with accompaniments. Each gift includes presentation packaging, tasting information, and dietary guidance. Ideal for corporate gifts, weddings, or special celebrations with customisation available for specific requirements.
Cheese Wedding Cakes
Edible cheese wedding cakes feature tiered arrangements of complementary cheeses, serving 20-200 guests. Each stack combines visual appeal with balanced flavour profiles, featuring soft, semi-hard, and mature varieties. Available with custom cheese selections and presentation options, these unique centrepieces offer both aesthetic and gastronomic experiences for wedding receptions and special events.
Artisan Cheese Selection
Extensive range of over 75 artisan cheeses from British and European producers, including rare and award-winning varieties. The selection features unpasteurised, organic, and traditional cheeses with detailed provenance information. Customers receive expert guidance on pairings, storage, and serving suggestions from our knowledgeable cheesemongers.
Cheese Accompaniments
Specialist accompaniments enhance cheese tasting experiences with carefully selected products. Range includes sourdough crackers, artisan chutneys, gourmet honeys, and premium charcuterie. All products are chosen for their complementary flavours and quality, with pairing recommendations provided to create perfect cheese boards.
People
Kate O'Meara
Founder
Established The Cheese Society in 1997, pioneering mail-order cheese sales. Judged at international cheese awards and developed the UK's first cheese caf. Combines decades of hospitality experience with deep cheese expertise.
Lucie O'Meara
Design Director
Joined the business in 2016, bringing design expertise to enhance digital presence. Manages website development and customer experience while maintaining cheese knowledge through hands-on involvement.
Questions
How do cheese subscriptions work?
Our subscriptions deliver four hand-picked seasonal cheeses monthly on your chosen dates, with tasting notes and optional gift messages included.
Can I order for delivery outside mainland UK?
Yes, we deliver to Northern Ireland and islands at additional cost - please call us directly for these orders.
What happens if I'm not home for delivery?
Parcelforce will attempt delivery twice, leave with a neighbour if possible, or return to depot if unsuccessful after two attempts.
How should I store my cheese?
Keep cheeses refrigerated, consume within 12-14 days, and follow specific storage instructions provided with each order.
Do you offer corporate gifting options?
Yes, we provide custom cheese gift boxes and subscriptions for corporate clients with bulk pricing available.
Are substitutions ever made in orders?
Substitutions occur only when necessary, with close alternatives provided and customer notification where possible.
Reviews (5)
Holly Fletcher
Jan 08, 2022
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I received a gift box, as a present and absolutely loved it. Great selection of delicious cheeses, which were beautifully presented. I then ordered a gift for my friend. After I gave the wrong address, they were really friendly and managed to rearrange the order to be delivered again (to the correct address) the same day! Great service, my friend was delighted. Very happy.
Adam Dyster
Dec 22, 2021
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Only used the deli counter. Not cheap, but great selection of local and international cheeses, and friendly service.
Simon Croson
Dec 04, 2021
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Great setting, relaxing environment, wonderful food- Welcoming and helpful staff 🐝🐝🐝🐝🐝
Liz Bell
Nov 23, 2021
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A very big Thankyou to The Cheese Society . I rand a week ago and spoke to a very knowledgable lady . So friendly and I was able to order over the phone, as my sad attempt to order on line failed . This… morning I have received my order excellently packaged and delivered by the courier . Substationally packaged for my fragile order. Thank you again .
Grace Wight
Jul 27, 2021
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I did an online order for a gift. The ordering process was really smooth with a wide variety of cheeses available. The packaging was eco friendly and the explanation of cheese etiquette made the experience really fun and was a great extra touch. The cheeses we picked were excellent! The portion sizes were great and the tastes were delicious. We particularly enjoyed smoked Snowdonia and truffle gouda. The customer service was prompt and the friendliest Ive ever experienced from an online order. I highly recommend The Cheese Society for brilliantly tasty cheeses, great portions, and very good
