FAQ

When should I order for a specific date such as Christmas OR Father’s Day?

Order any time from now and choose a delivery date to suit you once you’re in the Checkout, or choose ASAP and we’ll ship your order straight away.

See our selection of Christmas Cheese Gifts here

How long will my cheeses last?

Please remember Best Before dates on our cheeses will vary from about a week to ten days on soft cheeses to up to three months on hard cheeses and cheddars so please allow for that when selecting a delivery date. Please be aware that obviously these are fresh cheeses and while some of them will have Best Before dates of over a month, some of the softer cheeses will not have more than two to three weeks life on them. See our guide for more information on Best Before dates:

https://www.pongcheese.co.uk/the-big-cheese/articles/a-quick-guide-to-best-before-dates.html

How will my Pong box look?

You can find out a bit more about the deliveries and what the packaging looks like by visiting here.

My order hasn’t turned up, where is it?

If you have any delivery or tracking queries you can visit Royal Mail and track it here: https://www.royalmail.com/track-your-item or you might find it helpful to call them directly on 03457 740740 and quote your tracking code. You’ll also need to tell them the name and postcode of where it’s going. Please remind them it is a perishable item and it must be delivered as soon as possible. It might be useful to give them any helpful instructions for delivery if the driver has not found your property and to confirm address details.

Why have I received a tracking email but no delivery?

If your box has been shipped early it is simply in order to pre-empt how busy the couriers are and to allow for any delays. We want to make sure you get your order as near to the delivery date you’ve requested as possible and to get it there before you need it such as a dinner party or in time for Christmas. Please remember your order is on a ‘Leave Safe’ service which means it doesn’t need a signature so it doesnt matter if you’re not in, it will be left in a safe place or with a neighbour. If your tracking link doesn’t work it is because it hasn’t yet been scanned into the couriers’ depot. Please try later on this evening.

What if I might not be in to receive the order?

All Pong orders are shipped as ‘Leave Safe’ so the recipient doesn’t need to be in to receive it and the driver will always try to leave it with a neighbour if they don’t feel it can be left in a porch or other protected area.

What will happen to the condition of the cheese if it is delayed?

Your Pong Cheese box is lovingly prepared with ice gel packs to keep the air cool and with low ambient temperatures the cheese will not be harmed. If on receipt of your box you are not happy with how it looks or the condition of the cheese inside please let us know immediately by email on shop@pongcheese.co.uk and we will organise a replacement.

How should I look after the cheese once I receive it?

Refrigerate all cheese on receipt. Some, once cut, will form dry areas where they are exposed to air so for anything cut you can use cling film to wrap it and put it in the fridge. For uncut cheese if it’s not in a fridge it will continue its natural maturing process; for harder cheeses, for example in wax or any other rind, this will continue for months and the cheese will get more mature. For softer cheeses they will get stronger tasting and become softer. If you don’t want them to get any stronger or change at all the best thing to do is to keep them in the fridge or at least a cold part of the house such as a cellar.

Don’t forget though to make sure they’re at room temperature before serving to get the maximum flavour. Here’s a bit of info on caring for your cheese:
https://www.pongcheese.co.uk/the-big-cheese/articles/caring-for-your-cheese.html

How does the ‘Buy three get one free offer’ work?

We will add a complimentary cheese at the time of packing to any order that qualifies – i.e. if the order has three or more cheeses in it. For more information on this offer please see here:
https://www.pongcheese.co.uk/the-big-cheese/articles/choose-3-and-get-1-free.html

I want to order a Pong Cheese Club but I can’t see how to change the delivery schedule

Once you’ve made your order, simply reply to your order confirmation email once you have one and let us know when you’d like them to go out. Otherwise you can just email us after you’ve made the order but please make sure you include the order number in your email.

When should I order for a specific date?

You can order any time from now and choose a delivery date to suit you once you’re in the Checkout, or choose ASAP and we’ll ship your order straight away. The Best Before dates on the cheeses will be at their optimum if you request a date for delivery of your order a few days before the date you want it e.g. Christmas or Father’s Day.

Is the packaging of my Pong box recyclable?

Yes all of the boxes and packaging straw and promotional material can be added to your cardboard recycling. The ice gel pack sachets contain certified food grade gel. These can be disposed of within recyclable waste or alternatively you can refreeze them and use them again for example in a picnic hamper.

What is Pong’s Privacy & Cookie Policy?

We understand that your privacy is important to you and that you care about how your personal data is used and shared online. You can read our full Privacy Policy here and find out how we use cookie’s to store information here.

About Pong Cheese

What is Pong Cheese and what makes it different from other online cheese shops?

Pong Cheese is a specialist online cheesemonger offering artisan, award‑winning cheeses from the UK and Europe. We focus on small‑batch, traditional cheesemaking and deliver nationwide with chilled packaging designed to protect quality. Our range includes soft, hard, blue, washed‑rind, vegetarian, organic and seasonal cheeses.

Where is Pong Cheese based?

Pong Cheese is based in the UK and delivers fresh artisan cheese nationwide. Our fulfilment and packing teams prepare every box by hand to ensure quality and freshness.

Does Pong Cheese support local British cheesemakers?

Yes — we work closely with independent British dairies, farmhouse producers and small artisan makers. Many of our cheeses come from heritage farms using traditional methods.

📦 Ordering, Delivery & Logistics

Does Pong Cheese deliver cheese anywhere in the UK?

Yes, we deliver across the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Remote areas may require an additional day for delivery, so please choose your date accordingly.

Can I schedule my Pong Cheese delivery for a specific day?

Yes — during Checkout you can select a preferred delivery date. This is ideal for birthdays, dinner parties, Christmas, Father’s Day, Easter, Valentine’s Day or corporate gifting.

How quickly can Pong Cheese deliver?

If you choose ASAP, we ship immediately. Standard delivery is typically next‑day once dispatched, depending on Royal Mail’s service.

Does Pong Cheese offer weekend delivery?

Yes — Saturday delivery is available. Cut‑off times apply during peak periods.

Can I change my delivery date after ordering?

Yes — simply reply to your order confirmation email or contact us with your order number.

Can I send Pong Cheese as a gift to someone else?

Absolutely. You can enter a different delivery address at Checkout, add a gift message, and choose a delivery date that suits the recipient.

Will the courier leave my cheese if I’m not home?

Yes — all Pong Cheese deliveries are sent on a Leave Safe service. Couriers will leave the parcel in a secure location or with a neighbour.

What happens if my cheese delivery is delayed?

Your box is packed with ice gel packs and insulated packaging to keep cheese cool during transit. Delays rarely affect quality, but if you’re unhappy with the condition on arrival, contact us immediately.

Can I track my Pong Cheese delivery?

Yes — you’ll receive a Royal Mail tracking link once your order is dispatched.

Why was my Pong Cheese shipped earlier than expected?

During busy periods (Christmas, Father’s Day, Easter, bank holidays), we may ship early to avoid courier congestion and ensure your cheese arrives before your chosen date.

Cheese Storage, Quality & Food Safety

How long do Pong cheeses last once delivered?

Shelf life varies by cheese type:

• Soft cheeses: 7–10 days
• Semi‑soft cheeses: 2–3 weeks
• Hard cheeses: up to 3 months
• Cheddars: up to 3 months
• Blue cheeses: typically 2–4 weeks

Always check the Best Before date on each cheese.

How should I store my cheese once it arrives?

Refrigerate immediately. Wrap cut cheeses in cling film or wax paper. Keep uncut cheeses chilled unless you prefer them to mature naturally.

Can I freeze cheese from Pong Cheese?

Freezing is not recommended for most artisan cheeses, as it affects texture. Hard cheeses freeze better than soft ones, but flavour may still change.

How do I serve cheese for maximum flavour?

Remove cheese from the fridge 1–2 hours before serving to reach room temperature. This enhances aroma, texture and flavour.

Are Pong cheeses suitable for vegetarians?

Many of our cheeses use vegetarian rennet. Check individual product pages for details.

Are any Pong cheeses organic?

Yes — we offer a selection of organic cheeses. Look for the organic symbol on product listings.

Are Pong cheeses pasteurised or unpasteurised?

We offer both. Each cheese listing clearly states whether it is pasteurised or raw milk.

🎁 Gifts, Events & Seasonal Cheese

What are the best cheese gifts for Christmas or Father’s Day?

Our curated cheese gift boxes are designed for seasonal celebrations. Popular options include:

• Christmas Cheese Selection
• Father’s Day Cheese Gift Boxes
• Pong Cheese Taster Boxes
• Blue Cheese Lover’s Box
• Vegetarian Cheese Gift Sets

Can I order cheese for a dinner party or event?

Yes — choose a delivery date 1–3 days before your event to ensure optimum freshness.

Does Pong Cheese offer corporate gifting?

Yes — we can supply cheese hampers, staff gifts, client gifts and subscription packages for businesses.

📦 Packaging & Sustainability

Is Pong Cheese packaging recyclable?

Yes — our cardboard boxes, packaging straw and promotional materials are recyclable. Ice gel packs can be recycled or reused.

How is Pong Cheese kept cold during delivery?

We use insulated packaging and ice gel packs to maintain low temperatures throughout transit.

Is Pong Cheese packaging suitable for gifting?

Yes — our boxes are designed to look premium and presentable, making them ideal for gifts.

Offers & Subscriptions

How does the ‘Buy Three Get One Free’ offer work?

If your order contains three or more cheeses, we automatically add a complimentary cheese during packing.

What is the Pong Cheese Club?

The Pong Cheese Club is a monthly subscription delivering a curated selection of artisan cheeses. You can adjust delivery dates by replying to your confirmation email.

Can I pause or skip a subscription delivery?

Yes — simply email us with your order number and preferred schedule.

Policies & Customer Support

What is Pong Cheese’s returns policy?

If your cheese arrives damaged or in poor condition, contact us immediately and we will arrange a replacement.

How does Pong Cheese handle allergens?

All allergens are clearly listed on each product page. If you have specific dietary requirements, check each cheese’s description before ordering.

Where can I read Pong Cheese’s Privacy & Cookie Policy?

You can find our full Privacy and Cookie Policy on our website.

 

Cheese Knowledge

What types of cheese does Pong Cheese sell?

We offer soft, hard, blue, washed‑rind, goat’s cheese, sheep’s cheese, vegetarian cheese, organic cheese, seasonal specials and curated gift boxes.

How do I choose the right cheese online?

Consider flavour strength, milk type, texture, maturity and whether you prefer British or continental cheeses. Our product descriptions help guide your choice.

What cheese pairs well with wine, beer or cider?

We provide pairing suggestions on many product pages. Soft cheeses pair well with sparkling wines, blues with sweet wines, and hard cheeses with ales or ciders.

What is the best cheese for a cheeseboard?

A balanced cheeseboard includes:

• One soft cheese
• One hard cheese
• One blue cheese
• One wildcard (washed‑rind, goat’s cheese, or seasonal special)

What is the difference between Best Before and Use By dates on cheese?

Best Before relates to quality; Use By relates to safety. Most artisan cheeses use Best Before dates because they remain safe beyond that point but may change in flavour or texture.

How do I stop cheese from sweating or drying out?

Wrap cut cheese tightly and store in the fridge. Serve at room temperature only just before eating.

Can cheese be left out of the fridge?

Cheese can be left out for short periods when serving. Hard cheeses tolerate room temperature longer than soft cheeses.