Driving through Shetland, you’ll see signs saying ‘eggs for sale’ at the roadside. It’s a simple case of stopping to take your eggs out of a box, note what you bought in a notepad, if there is one, leave your money in a tub and off you go!
Some of our honesty boxes take it a step further and also offer jams, bread, fudge and home baking. Honesty boxes started as a good way for locals to share the bounty of eggs produced by their own hens and ducks, and those who bake use these free range eggs in their baking too. There is even an honesty box selling Shetland mussels located by the main road heading through Tresta.
Often a hobby juggled between work and family commitments, our much appreciated honesty bakers may only be stirring up delights on certain days or at certain times of the year. We suggest you find them on Facebook and check what they have on offer before you visit, but when you do find one, you’re likely to be met with a gorgeous selection of tiffins, cupcakes, bannocks and biscuits.
As more people have joined the collective of honesty box and cake fridge bakers, you'll find that there's an excellent choice and high standard. Some have even expanded to open cafes alongside their fridges.
Like most things in life, the majority of people will not only act honestly, but will show their appreciation in other ways, perhaps by leaving a good review or leaving a tip. But let’s not be naïve – the small risk of petty thieving or vandalism is minimised either by honesty boxes being within sight of the owners or some honesty boxes go as far as installing cameras to guard against those risks. We know you’ll do the right thing!
Here’s where to find out more about Shetland’s most popular honesty boxes and cake fridges, but keep your eyes peeled wherever you’re driving and take a look in any produce boxes you find.
