Chocolate Heritage Walk

York was home to two major chocolate manufacturers - Rowntree's and Terry's - that transformed the city in the 19th and 20th centuries. This guided tour walks through the historic factory areas and streets where chocolate production shaped urban life, housing, and employment. You'll taste historical chocolate recipes, learn about industrial innovation, and see remaining factory buildings, all while understanding how a small confectionery business became a global industry. Best for Families and chocolate lovers. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 2-30. You meet at York's Chocolate Story entrance on King's Square. Key highlights: Rowntree's and Terry's factory exteriors and worker housing, Historical chocolate recipes and brand stories (Kit Kat, Aero, All Gold), Victorian and Edwardian urban planning shaped by chocolate industry.

Price: £22

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-30

Best for: Families and chocolate lovers

Best time: April-May and September-October for comfortable weather; avoid August school holidays when groups are larger and booking crucial

Meeting point: York's Chocolate Story entrance on King's Square

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0:00-0:15 Meet at King's Square and introduction to York chocolate history - Guide explains why York became a chocolate hub (cocoa imports via Hull, Quaker influence on ethical manufacturing) and introduces Rowntree's and Terry's founders.

0:15-0:35 Walk to Rowntree's factory site on Haxby Road - View exterior of historic factory buildings (now residential apartments) and learn about production methods and notable products like Kit Kat and Aero.

0:35-0:50 Explore factory workers' housing and streets - Guide points out Victorian worker cottages built by Rowntree's, demonstrating paternalistic business practices and urban planning influence.

0:50-1:10 Walk to Terry's factory site on Bishopthorpe Road - Visit the larger Terry's complex exterior, hear stories of Terry's All Gold chocolates and brand dominance in mid-20th century Britain.

1:10-1:30 Return to King's Square with chocolate tastings - Sample historical chocolate recipes from both manufacturers; guide explains ingredient sourcing, marketing innovations, and industry decline from the 1980s onward.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at York's Chocolate Story entrance on King's Square.

• Rowntree's and Terry's factory exteriors and worker housing
• Historical chocolate recipes and brand stories (Kit Kat, Aero, All Gold)
• Victorian and Edwardian urban planning shaped by chocolate industry
• Chocolate tastings from both manufacturers' archives
• Industrial heritage explanation for modern York's character
• Accessibility: Easy terrain, mostly flat or gentle slopes on paved streets. No stairs. Factory buildings are viewed from outside only (not entered). Suitable for families with pushchairs. Wheelchair accessible on main streets; check with operator for specific factory viewing points.

What is included: Professional guide for 1.5 hours, Multiple chocolate tastings (historical products), Access to factory exteriors and surrounding streets, Historical narrative and company information.

Not included: Entry to York's Chocolate Story museum (available separately for £15.50 adult), Additional gift shop purchases, Lunch or full refreshments, Private tasting sessions. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing, Water bottle, Dietary information card if you have allergies (advance notification recommended), Camera for photographing historic factory buildings, Hand sanitiser before chocolate tastings. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: April-May and September-October for comfortable weather; avoid August school holidays when groups are larger and booking crucial.

Tip: Book ahead during school holidays

Tip: Includes chocolate samples throughout

Accessibility: Easy terrain, mostly flat or gentle slopes on paved streets. No stairs. Factory buildings are viewed from outside only (not entered). Suitable for families with pushchairs. Wheelchair accessible on main streets; check with operator for specific factory viewing points..

Operator: York's Chocolate Story | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 1904 527765

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• York's Chocolate Story (starting point walk)
• York Castle Museum (12 min walk)
• King's Manor (5 min walk)

This activity is run by York's Chocolate Story.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours; 50% refund 24-48 hours before; non-refundable within 24 hours.

Accessibility: Easy terrain, mostly flat or gentle slopes on paved streets. No stairs. Factory buildings are viewed from outside only (not entered). Suitable for families with pushchairs. Wheelchair accessible on main streets; check with operator for specific factory viewing points..

Best time to go: April-May and September-October for comfortable weather; avoid August school holidays when groups are larger and booking crucial.

When did Rowntree's and Terry's chocolate factories operate in York?

Rowntree's operated from 1862-1994 (acquired by Nestlé). Terry's operated from 1767-2006 (acquired by Kraft). Both companies dominated global chocolate markets for over 100 years, with peak production in the mid-20th century. The factories have been converted to residential use, but original Victorian buildings remain visible.

Are the chocolate factory buildings still standing, or are they demolished?

Both Rowntree's and Terry's factory complexes still exist as Grade II or III listed buildings. Rowntree's Haxby Road site (opened 1862) and Terry's Bishopthorpe Road site (1872) have been converted into apartments and offices while preserving exterior architecture. You view them from outside during the walk.

What chocolate products are tasted during the Chocolate Heritage Walk?

Tastings include historical products from Rowntree's (Kit Kat, Aero, Smarties) and Terry's (All Gold, Neapolitans) archives or replicas. Specific products vary by tour date and supplier availability. Inform the operator of nut allergies or other dietary restrictions when booking, as processing facilities may vary.