Sweet Summer: Discover York’s Chocolate Story and More
York is a city with many layers, and one of its most delicious is chocolate. Long before it became known for its grand cathedrals or Viking heritage, York was a hub of chocolate-making in the UK. Even today, the city carries the scent of its sweet past, and summer is a great time to explore this flavourful side of the city. If you’re staying with Holiday Homes in York, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from all the tastiest attractions in town.
The perfect starting point is York’s Chocolate Story, located in King’s Square. This interactive attraction brings the city’s chocolate heritage to life, from the earliest days of Rowntree’s and Terry’s to today’s independent chocolatiers. Guided tours walk you through the history, but it’s the hands-on elements that truly delight visitors. You can watch demonstrations, sample freshly made chocolate, and even make your own creations. It’s informative without being dry, and children especially love the chance to roll up their sleeves and get involved. On a rainy summer afternoon, it’s the perfect way to stay entertained indoors.
Once you’ve uncovered the secrets behind the sweet treats, you might be tempted to indulge in a few more. York is dotted with artisan chocolate shops and dessert cafés, many of which offer locally made goodies. Whether it’s a perfectly tempered truffle, a rich brownie, or a handmade ice cream, you’re never far from your next indulgence. Cocoa Joe’s, Monk Bar Chocolatiers, and the Fudge Kitchen are just a few of the places that combine creativity with mouthwatering flavours.
For a quieter chocolate experience steeped in history, head to Goddards House and Garden. This elegant former home of the Terry family (of Chocolate Orange fame) now belongs to the National Trust. While the house offers a glimpse into 1930s life, the real treat is in the garden. It's a peaceful, beautifully landscaped space where you can enjoy a drink and a slice of chocolate cake in the tearoom, surrounded by birdsong and flowers. It’s a lovely alternative to the bustle of the city centre and offers space for little ones to explore and relax.
If you’re visiting in high summer, you’ll likely want to cool off with something cold. York’s ice cream scene doesn’t disappoint. Head to the riverside or Shambles Market and you’ll find plenty of stalls and cafés offering classic cones, gourmet flavours, and even dairy-free options. There’s something particularly joyful about wandering the cobbled streets with a scoop in hand, and the mix of old-world charm and simple pleasures creates a summer memory that lingers.
Back at your accommodation, the joy continues. Holiday Homes in York provides spacious, comfortable rentals with kitchens and dining spaces, making it easy to enjoy your own chocolate-themed evening. Perhaps you’ve picked up a few bars of artisan chocolate to share, or maybe you let the kids try their hand at recreating what they learned on the tour. Unlike a hotel room, these homes give you room to spread out, unwind, and make your trip your own.
York’s chocolate story is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a thread that runs through the city’s identity. From historic homes and factory founders to modern makers and summer treats, the love for chocolate is woven into the streets and stories. It’s the kind of activity that delights all ages and offers a change of pace from castles and cathedrals. And when you stay with Holiday Homes in York, you’re never far from your next sweet experience.
