John Bull Confectioners Ltd, Unit 1, Lancaster Road, Carnaby Industrial Estate, Bridlington, YO15 3QY
Established more than 100 years ago in Bridlington as an emporium of rock and seaside novelties, John Bull has expanded into biscuit and chocolate production, with several stores around the country. Enjoy this full sensory experience, which includes touring the factory, making your own chocolate lolly and personalising a stick of rock. Sweet.
Cadbury World, Linden Rd, Bournville, Birmingham B30 1JR
Possibly one of the most famous confectionary locations, make your way to Bournville, Birmingham and surround yourself with all things Cadbury. Walk around the ‘Factory in a Garden’ village, unearthing its deep history as you go, then head on a two-hour tour around the factory to learn how the chocolate is prepared and processed. Want more? You can book onto their brand new chocolatier experience, opening your eyes and taste buds to the world of chocolate making and also stop at the Cadbury Café.
Choccywoccydoodah, 3 Meeting House Lane, Brighton, BN1 1HB
As mad as it sounds (and just as fabulous), gaze in awe at the creative designs made by the master chocolatiers of Choccywoccydoodah. Originally in Brighton but now also in London, this Aladdin’s Cave of chocolate is the ultimate treat. Boasting layered cakes with intricate chocolate designs (think skulls and animals,) handmade truffles, bars, bespoke cakes…The range of treats to marvel at is endless.
Oban Chocolate Factory, 34 Corran Esplanade, Oban, PA34 5PS
For chocolates with a twist, look no further. Based in the picturesque Scottish town of Oban, a trip to this lovely café offers beautiful views of the bay. Known for some quirky combinations (marmite chocolate anyone?), the open plan shop and café allow you to watch the chocolatiers at work whilst you relax with either a dark, milk or white hot chocolate, whilst sampling their handmade truffles, waffles, cake...The list goes on!
The Fudge Kitchen, 20 Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1LP
One sticky situation you’ll definitely want to find yourself in is a fudge making experience at The Fudge Kitchen. Not only do you learn about the history but you can get handy at making fudge, sample several flavours and take home a six-slice box, on top of the ‘at home’ kit to continue the fun. If you don’t fancy getting stuck in, watch the fudge makers at work with live demonstrations instead. Although there are 10 locations across the UK, we love the Windsor branch with its view of Windsor Castle.
The Chocolate Boutique Hotel, 5 Durley Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5JQ
If Mr Wonka were to venture into hospitality, this hotel would be his pride and joy and is well worth a visit if you are staying in the area. To learn more about chocolate, book onto the Chocolate Deluxe workshop where you will create handmade Belgian truffles under expert guidance, as well as learning how to mix, pipe, cut, shape, coat, temper and finally package your very own delicious Belgian truffle. Delicious.
The Chocolate Factory, 3 Kenfig Industrial Estate, Port Talbot, SA13 2PE
One of South Wales’ leading factories, see the workings of a real chocolate factory, including the unique touch of chocolate being melted in their giant chocolate kettles. Learn some little-known insider tricks from how to create hollow Easter eggs to making chocolate bars. And don’t worry, there are plenty of samples to try as you explore!
Hardy’s, 52 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0BB
In search of a sugar rush? Look no further. Though Hardy’s has several stores dotted around the country, our favourite proudly sits on Charing Cross Road in London. With wall-to-wall tubs of candy, there’s almost no sweet you can’t find here. And if you’re into old-school American sweets, you’ll find them in abundance, along with the sugar laden cereals – a dentist’s worst nightmare!
Coronation World, Wellington Point, Amy Johnson Way, Blackpool Business Park, Blackpool, FY4 2RG
If you’re a big fan of the seaside favourite, surround yourself in the world of rock making at Blackpool’s largest rock factory. Open all year round, see how sticks of rock are made and how they get that lettering so perfectly placed in the middle. They even hold the Guinness World Record for the largest bar of rock ever made, weighing 434.5 kilograms. Revel in the sugary-sweet smell of the factory, then take home a little (or big) souvenir from the huge factory shop.
The Oldest Sweet Shop, 39 High Street, Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JZ
True sweetie fans should get excited, the Oldest Sweet Shop in the World is right here in the UK. Receiving the accolade in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2014, this wonderful emporium has been featured in the likes of The Independent, National Geographic and visited by Paul Hollywood and Nigel Slater. Find old fashioned sweets, retro sweet jars and luxury chocolates alongside an experience that will make you feel like you’ve been catapulted back to yesteryear. The shop opens its doors Wednesday to Sunday, so make sure you plan your trip accordingly, you won’t want to miss it!