We’ve recently become aware of misleading information circulating locally about our business. We want to reassure everyone that Plumbs’ Dairy is here to stay, and any claims suggesting otherwise are completely untrue
As a small, family-run business that has proudly served our community since 1952, caring for our customers has always been at the heart of what we do. We remain fully committed to continuing the reliable, local service you’ve come to expect.
As 3rd-generation owners, we’re actively investing in the future of the business. A new electric vehicle fleet is already being rolled out, solar panels will be installed early next year, and we’re working on improvements to the website shopping experience – all part of supporting our ongoing journey for Plumbs’ Dairy.
If you hear anything unusual about your delivery – for example, someone suggesting Plumbs’ is closing or that your deliveries are being taken over – please get in touch with us so we can help make sure you have the correct information straight from us.
Thank you for continuing to support Plumbs’ Dairy. We look forward to serving you for many years to come!
Justin and Debbie Plumb & the Plumbs’ Dairy Team
From horse-drawn milk deliveries to a thriving network of family-run suppliers, Plumbs’ Dairy has been part of local Cambridgeshire life for three generations. Founded in 1952 by Henry Plumb, his son Bernard took the reins in 1973 at just 27, quickly growing the business from three modest milk rounds into a thriving enterprise serving key village communities across Cambridgeshire. Today, Justin and Debbie Plumb continue to carry the family legacy into its third generation.
Peter Plumb, uncle of current owner Justin, standing beside Prince, the loyal, hard-working pony who helped deliver milk to villages across Cambridgeshire. A lovely reminder of how our small family-run business started.
Plumbs’ still delivers around 45,000 returnable glass bottles every week, keeping a sustainable tradition alive while serving many of the same families Peter and Prince did decades ago. But we’ve also embraced the future: 11 electric vehicles (with four more on the way) now help bring fresh milk, eggs, local meat, honey, cakes, bird food, logs, and even Christmas trees to our community. Solar panels are set to power our fleet in early 2026, making our deliveries even greener.
Take Yare Valley Oils, for example: The Mack family has been farming in the Yare Valley for well over a century. The current generation diversified in 2010 to produce cold-pressed rapeseed oil, making around 40,000 litres a year with their small team. There’s Boswell and Son, our talented local Cambridgeshire bakers creating everything from classic iced buns to artisan loaves, and Broadland Hams, a family-run firm producing top-quality hams and bacon in the small farming village of Little Melton for over 45 years. Bramble Foods also started as a small family business and has grown into a trusted local producer, supplying delicious treats to our deliveries.
Stour Valley Apiaries is a family-run business in Lavenham, Suffolk, operated by Kevin and Julie Thorn. Kevin manages 50 hives to produce pure honey while ensuring all beneficial elements are retained.
They also offer beeswax products through Busy Bees Cosmetics. Committed to bee conservation, Kevin leads a Bee Improvement Group at Abberton Reservoir, which is helping to reintroduce the native black bee to the area. We are proud to support their work and bring their honey and beeswax products to you.
At Plumbs’ Dairy, we’re always looking for ways to reduce our impact on the planet to give our next generation a cleaner, more sustainable future – and our suppliers share the same values.
CAMCATTLE, a local family farm in Cambridge, grazes Red Poll cattle on commons, meadows, and nature reserves, feeding only on grass. This natural approach produces rich, flavourful beef while supporting biodiversity and healthy land. (Follow Camcattle on Instagram & Facebook.)
Field Compost Ltd, run by husband-and-wife Chris and Joanna Field, create entirely peat-free compost and soil products. By avoiding peat, they protect wildlife, preserve delicate ecosystems, and encourage healthy soil – keeping nature at the heart of their family business. (Follow Field Compost on Instagram & Facebook.)
From carefully grazed beef to eco-friendly compost, these families are proving that a business can be sustainable in more ways than one: building a long-lasting, family-run enterprise while also protecting the planet for future generations – values that have guided Plumbs’ Dairy for over 70 years.
This Small Business Saturday, shopping with local businesses like ours means more than just buying products – it’s about supporting families, preserving local skills, and keeping traditions alive.
Thank you to all our customers for choosing to support Plumbs’ Dairy, and in doing so, helping sustain the many small, family-run businesses we work with every day.
The Christmas season is almost here, and Plumbs’ Dairy is excited to be part of Presents Galore, the ultimate festive shopping fair! Join us from 28th – 30th November for a weekend of seasonal fun, local makers, and Christmas cheer.
We’ll be bringing real Christmas trees to the event – perfect for your home this holiday season. Even better, 10% of all tree sales will be donated to the event’s chosen charities, so you can spread a little extra festive joy while supporting a local business.
And it’s not just tree sales that make a difference – 100% of ticket sales from the event go directly to Cambridge Children’s Hospital, Newmarket Charitable Foundation, and the National Horseracing Museum. Every ticket helps give back to the community while letting you enjoy the festive atmosphere!
Local Cadets will be on hand throughout the weekend to help carry your Christmas tree back to the car, making it a stress-free experience for everyone.
Tickets are still available, so don’t miss your chance to visit Plumbs’ Dairy at Presents Galore – we can’t wait to see you there!
https://presentsgalore.org/
Stay in this Christmas & let us deliver fresh goods, when you want, to your door.
Free delivery on all products in our range.
At Plumbs’ Dairy, we’re proud to champion our region’s best producers all year round – not just at Christmas. But this is an especially great time of year to treat yourself to some great festive treats from our region. From succulent free-range turkeys from Suffolk and handcrafted hams from Broadland Hams (Norfolk) to indulgent Christmas puddings from LillyPuds (Suffolk) and freshly baked mince pies from Boswells Bakery (Cambridgeshire), every item on our list has been chosen for its quality and flavour.
While you’re filling your basket, why not add a few pantry essentials? From The Bay Tree’s chutneys and Bramble Foods’ loaf cakes to Butterworth & Son’s coffee and Yare Valley’s rapeseed oils, we’ve got all the extras you need to see you through the festive season and beyond.
And, while you’re at it, don’t forget to stock up on winter essentials, from kindling and logs to bird feed for your garden visitors.
Give the supermarket rush a miss – simply fill in your Plumbs’ Christmas Order Form by 5th December and let us deliver everything straight to your door, ready for your festive celebrations.
Download and complete your Plumbs’ Dairy Christmas order form here
Once it’s filled in, just return it to us via email or give it to your delivery driver – and we’ll take care of the rest.
World Egg Day takes place on the second Friday in October each year, hosted by the World Egg Organisation. In the UK, an estimated 37.2 million eggs are eaten every day! Thankfully we don’t have to deliver all of them, but we have been proud to been delivering locally sourced eggs to Cambridgeshire households over the last 70+ years.
J.R Holm & Son: JR Holm & Son, in Haverhill have been our egg supplier for over 40 years and always provide the best quality locally sourced free range eggs. Along with their great service we are able to ensure that our customers always get the quality product they expect
Havensfield Eggs: Havensfield Happy Hens started in 2003 with just 300 hens on a field in Eye, Suffolk. The field was called Havensfield and that’s when their brand was born! Since then they’ve increased their own production of fresh barn eggs, and started working with a number of other farmers in Suffolk and Norfolk who produce eggs to the Havensfield standards on their family farms.
Click here to add eggs to your next Plumbs’ order and support these great local suppliers!
How about having a family egg-stravaganza on Friday with a great eggy breakfast, lunch or tea – eggs are so versatile that you could even do all three! To help your children to love eggs as much as we do, here are some great free downloadable activity packs from the World Egg Organisation for you to print out:
Activity Pack One: Ideal for pre-schoolers
Activity Pack Two: Early Years 4/5years
Activity Pack Three: 5+
Activity Pack Four: 7+
If you’re already a fan of the Dairy Diary, how about treating yourself or a loved-one to one of our great gift sets or the Dairy Diary 2026 Cookbook:
The Dairy Diary Set 2026, £13.99: includes the Dairy Diary 2026, a Pocket Diary with a week-to-view Diary, useful information, ribbon marker and pen attached: 89 x 145mm (3½ x 5¾”) + the Dairy Notebook with subtly lined pages, concealed lay-flat binding, elastic closure, pocket and pen attached: 98 x 150mm (3¾ x 5¾”) Add to Order
The Diary Diary 2026 Pocket Diary & Notebook set: £7.50: includes the Pocket Diary + the Dairy Notebook Add to Order
Just One Pan or Pot Cookbook: £11.99: A fabulous new cookbook to treasure and share! Just One Pan or Pot showcases straight forward recipes for simple, fuss free cooking – all in one dish! Add to Order
At the beginning of the 1980’s the Milk Marketing Board wanted to build upon the success of its cookbook: The Dairy Book of Home Cookery – the cookery ‘bible’ for many households, selling over 3million copies in the UK.
They wanted to design a diary which could be used regularly in the home whilst also promoting milk and dairy product usage. A diary containing recipes and household information was the answer. So in 1981, the Dairy Diary was born. It proved more popular than they can ever have imagined, selling over 1½ million copies in its first year alone!
(Phone lines open Mon – Fri between 9am and 3pm)
Are you a soft-serve kind of person, or do you prefer something fruity and refreshing? Either way we all know ice-cream is a summer hit, with over 15.4 billion liters of ice cream being consumed annually. It probably comes as no surprise that the US has had an entire month dedicated to ice-cream for over 40 years. A joint resolution passed both houses of Congress, first designating July 1984 as National Ice Cream Month and 15th July as National Ice Cream Day, with President Reagan signing it into law on 9th July, 1984. We don’t need much more of an excuse than that to celebrate one of our favourite desserts, so here’s four great ways to raise a spoon to ice cream this July!
This popular classic can be made using a range of Plumbs’ dairy milk and the best of our local ingredients
To make the base, gently warm 500ml of Plumbs’ fresh UK milk and 250ml of Longley Farm cream in a saucepan, being careful not to let it boil. In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks of 3 local free-range eggs with 3 tablespoons of Stour Valley Apiaries honey until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously, then return it all to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool fully, then chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Once chilled, churn in an ice cream maker or freeze in a container, stirring every 30 minutes until smooth and set. Serve with a drizzle of honey, a handful of chopped fresh strawberries, or a crumble of shortbread for a perfect celebration of summer and everything vanilla.
A refreshing British summer twist, perfect for making the most of seasonal fruit and floral flavours.
Start by placing 300g of fresh gooseberries in a saucepan with 100g caster sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Simmer gently until the gooseberries soften and begin to break down (about 10 minutes). Stir in 2 tablespoons of shop-bought or homemade elderflower cordial, then blend until smooth. Set aside to cool.
For the ice cream base, gently heat 500ml of Plumbs’ full-fat milk with 300ml of Longley Farm double cream in a saucepan until just steaming. In a bowl, whisk together 4 free-range egg yolks with 100g of golden caster sugar. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly, then return it all to the pan. Stir gently over low heat until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and leave to cool fully, then chill for a few hours in the fridge.
Churn the custard in an ice cream maker. Once nearly set, spoon into a container, adding swirls of the gooseberry and elderflower puree as you go. Freeze for at least 2 hours. Serve on its own or with shortbread biscuits.
Rich, creamy, and totally plant-based, making it the perfect indulgent scoop.
Start by heating 750ml of Glebe Farm oat milk and 250ml of coconut milk in a saucepan. Whisk in 100g of dark brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornflour, and a pinch of salt. Once it starts to simmer, stir until thickened.
Turn off the heat and stir in 150g of chopped dark chocolate and 3 tablespoons of hazelnut spread or any good-quality nut butter. Whisk until fully melted and smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then cool the mixture fully before chilling in the fridge for a few hours.
Churn in an ice cream maker, or freeze in a container, stirring every 30 minutes until smooth and firm. Optional: fold in chopped roasted hazelnuts or a few pieces of crushed vegan chocolate just before freezing for extra crunch. Scoop generously and enjoy with a drizzle of extra hazelnut spread on top.
Another classic with a twist for all our vegan and dairy-free friends, made using Glebe Farm oat milk.
Start by cooking 300g of chopped fresh strawberries with 50g caster sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over medium heat until it thickens into a jam-like consistency, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, heat 1 litre of vanilla oat milk until just boiling. In a bowl, whisk together 4 egg yolks and 150g brown sugar until smooth, then slowly temper the eggs by adding the hot oat milk while whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the pan and cook gently, stirring until it thickens into a custard. Let it cool completely.
Pour the cooled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, adding 100g rolled oats in the last few minutes for texture. Transfer the churned ice cream to a container, swirl in the cooled strawberry mixture, then freeze for at least 2 hours until firm. Let sit a few minutes before scooping and enjoy a creamy, naturally sweet dairy-free treat!
Did you know, Plumbs Dairy have been delivering fresh milk for over 70 years. And, nowadays it’s not just milk – we also deliver fresh fruit & veg, pantry items and household essentials straight to your door – with no minimum order or delivery fee.
Find out if we deliver to your home by clicking here.
Choosing Plumbs’ Dairy is more than just a shopping preference; it’s a step toward a more sustainable lifestyle with minimal effort required. By embracing plastic-free practices, you’re not only enjoying delicious, fresh produce but also contributing to a cleaner, greener planet.
To show your support, how about trying the 5DayChallenge in celebration of World Refill Week.
It’s simple, fun, and impactful:
This isn’t just good for the planet – it’s enjoyable and reliable, too.
Together, we can create a cleaner, greener future – one small swap at a time!
Sun-dappled meadows, gentle breezes, and balmy weather… OK so we haven’t had much of that this year, but picnics are still the perfect way to embrace the summer regardless of the forecast. For some, the thought of packing food can feel like a chore, but with a little planning and our list of delicious (and travel-friendly) recipes, you can create a spread that’s both impressive and effortless.
Savoury Skewers: These simple and versatile skewers let you throw together your favourites in a matter of minutes! Thread some cherry tomatoes, chunks of cheese, cooked chicken, and juicy olives onto skewers with some crusty bread on the side for a colourful and satisfying appetiser.
Mini Quiches: Pre-bake some mini pastry shells and fill them with a creamy mixture of eggs, cheese, chopped bacon, and sautéed vegetables. These miniature quiches are easy to grab and go and can be frozen for another time.
Cucumber Tea Sandwiches: A classic with a twist! Ditch the white bread and opt for thinly sliced cucumber as the base. Layer with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a light and refreshing bite. If you’re desperate for some crunch, you could even put them atop some thin slices of rye.
Couscous Salad with Grilled Halloumi: Combine fluffy couscous with roasted vegetables like peppers, aubergine, and courgettes with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Top with sliced halloumi cheese that’s been grilled until golden brown for a delightful smoky flavour and a variety of texture.
Three-Bean Salad: A vibrant and healthy option that’s easy to transport. Mix together some kidney beans, chickpeas, and green beans with chopped red onion (pickled is even better), chopped fresh herbs like parsley and mint, and a simple vinaigrette dressing.
Summer Fruit Salad with Honey Yogurt: This is a crowd-pleaser because it’s so easy but also decadent. Combine seasonal berries, chopped melon, and sliced stone fruits in a bowl. Drizzle with creamy honey yoghurt for a touch of sweetness. If you really want to go Mediterranean, try adding a sprinkle of feta for a sharpness that balances the sweet perfectly.
Flapjacks: These chewy oat bars are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. They’re easy to make ahead of time and travel well. Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for a customised flavour. Are you a crunchy kind of person? Just pour the flapjack mix into a shallower pan and turn the heat up a wee bit higher.
Mason Jars: Layer salads, dips, and overnight oats in mason jars for easy transport and portion control.
Leakproof Containers: Pack sandwiches and other wet items in leakproof containers to avoid any unwanted sogginess.
The Cool Factor: Don’t forget a cooler bag to keep perishables fresh, especially on a hot day.
With these delicious recipes and handy packing tips, your next picnic is sure to be a success. At Plumbs’ Dairy we offer a range of fruit and veg, refreshing drinks, and fluffy sandwich rolls, so grab your basket, gather your loved ones, and head out to enjoy the sunshine and good company!
Let Plumbs’ bring the picnic to your door – check out our product range, here
Calling all Cambridge foodies and veg enthusiasts! Ever dreamt of turning your balcony into a mini-farm or transforming a sunny windowsill into a herb haven? This summer, Plumbs’ Dairy is throwing down the gauntlet with our very own Veggie Patch-to-Plate Challenge!
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be encouraging everyone to embrace the joy (and deliciousness) of growing their own produce. It doesn’t matter if you have a huge garden or a shoebox-sized balcony – with a little planning and some TLC, you can cultivate fresh, vibrant ingredients right in your own home.
The benefits of growing your own food are plentiful:
The Plumbs’ Veggie Patch-to-Plate Challenge is suitable for everyone, from seasoned gardeners to curious beginners. Here’s how to participate:
The Plumbs’ Veggie Patch-to-Plate Challenge is more than just about growing your own food – it’s about embracing local, sustainable living and connecting with a community of passionate people. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete newbie, we encourage you to join the challenge. Let’s transform Cambridge into a vibrant hub of homegrown goodness!
Stay tuned on our social media pages where we’ll be delving into beginner-friendly vegetables and herbs to get you started on your veggie patch journey!