While York is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture, the iconic York Minster and the medieval City Walls, it has another delightful claim to fame – the chocolate capital of the UK.
Located at the heart of the bustling city centre, just off the famous Shambles, York’s Chocolate Story is one of the best family-friendly tourist attractions in York, celebrating the rich and fascinating chocolate history of this place. This medieval city played a pivotal role in the world of chocolate.
Many beloved chocolate brands of the nation came from this city, including Rowntree’s and Terry’s, which created iconic products like KitKat, Smarties, and Chocolate Orange.
Famous British chocolate and confectionary brand Terry’s was founded in the city as a small shop near the Bootham Bar on the City Walls in 1767. Later, another giant chocolatier Rowntree’s was established in 1862.
York Chocolate Story takes visitors behind the scenes, offering fascinating insights into how these brands revolutionised the chocolate industry.
Kids will love the hands-on activities, like crafting their own chocolate lollipops to interactive exhibits. For adults, Chocolate Story provides a chance to step back in time, indulge in some nostalgia, and, of course, enjoy plenty of mouthwatering sweet treats along the way.
So, whether you are a chocolate lover or someone who wants to dive into the city’s colourful past, a visit to York Chocolate Story offers something for all ages.
A Walk Through York’s Chocolate History
York’s rich chocolate-making history dates back a few centuries. This city even has a dedicated interactive museum, York Chocolate Story, which draws visitors across the world to experience this city’s sweet heritage and should be an unmissable stop in any York itinerary.
It all started in the 18th century when a trailblazing woman named Mary Tuke set up a small grocery store in Walmgate. Several years later, her business was sold to the Rowntree family, a prominent Quaker family who played a significant part in history.
Due to their religious beliefs, Quakers often avoided industries like brewing and distilling. Instead, many turned to the production of chocolate, a non-alcoholic alternative.
Eventually, Rowntree became one of the most influential chocolate companies in the United Kingdom. Once, over 14000 people worked in their factories. Later, in 1988, Rowntree was acquired by Nestle.
Another famous chocolate brand based in York is Terry’s. It was founded in 1767. They created the iconic Terry’s Chocolate Orange. Even today, millions of chocolate bars, including Kit Kats and Aeros, are produced in York.
In recent years, a wave of independent chocolatiers has emerged in York, carrying out its chocolate legacy. Local businesses like York Cocoa Works and several artisan chocolate shops bring fresh energy to the city’s chocolate scene.
Our Experience at York’s Chocolate Story
When we arrived, we were greeted by a member of their staff who checked our tickets. At the beginning of the group tour, we were taken to the top floor by a lift, where our tour guide awaited.
Our guide was fantastic – knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and absolutely passionate about York’s chocolate history. The guided tour lasted around an hour.
It started near a replica of Rowntree’s old shop. Then, we watched a short film showcasing the origin of chocolate dating back hundreds of years. Also, we learned the riveting tales about how chocolate made its way to York.
Shortly after that, we were shown a collection of photographs and a fun video presentation about some of the prominent local personalities who had played pivotal roles in York’s thriving confectionery industry, like Mary Luke, Henry Issac Rowntree, Joseph Rowntree, Joseph Terry and Frank Terry.
Plus, we learned about all the big names in the chocolate industry like Rowntree’s and Terry’s, their Quaker roots, and how they eventually became the masterminds behind KitKat, Smarties, and the iconic Terry’s Chocolate Orange.
Next, we moved on to the chocolate-making process, and this was where things got hands-on. We explored how cocoa beans are harvested, fermented, and transformed into the silky, smooth chocolate we all love.
We would be honest. The tasting was what we had been waiting for, and it did not disappoint. We got to sample a variety of chocolates, from bitter dark to creamy milk and everything in between.
Each piece was explained in detail – how the flavours develop, why the texture is so important, and how to properly savour it like a professional chocolatier.
The guide even busted some myths – white chocolate isn’t technically a chocolate.
The tour also included a chance to get creative with chocolate. There were a variety of toppings to add as well. Ours may not have looked Instagram-worthy, but it tasted great.
After the tour, we popped into their café to stock up some sweet treats to bring back home.
So, if you are visiting York, we will highly recommend you book a tour of York’s Chocolate Story. It’s fun, educational, and, most importantly, delicious! Trust us, you will leave with a deeper appreciation for chocolate.
How to Reach
York’s Chocolate Story is located at the heart of the city centre and is easily accessible by foot. It is within walking distance of many city landmarks.
From the railway station, it takes approximately 15 minutes to walk here. Also, it is only a short walk away from the York Minster.
Opening Hours and Prices
York’s Chocolate Story is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with guided tours running throughout the day.
The tour costs £18.50 per adult and £16.00 for a child. Also, we would recommend booking your tickets online in advance as they give a discount on the ticket prices for online bookings.
Don’t Forget the Gift Shop
Before you leave, make sure to stop by the gift shop, a paradise for chocoholics. It is a great place to pick up a gift or a little something for yourself.
Inside their cafe, you will find everything from handcrafted truffles to unique chocolate-themed souvenirs. Also, you can indulge in some delicious hot chocolates, cakes, and artisan desserts.
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