York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience Review

Are you a chocolate lover looking for fun and unique things to do in York? Look no further than York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience!

York is considered the ‘chocolate city’ due to its long history of chocolate production. And this workshop offers an immersive experience into the world of making delectable treats at the heart of the city.

This is your opportunity to try your hand at crafting your own delicious chocolate bars. It’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

In this review, you’ll explore each part of the workshop to see what makes it so special. Plus, we’ll cover other chocolate activities available around the city that you don’t want to miss.

So, if you’re ready for a sugar rush adventure like no other – read on!

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The History of Chocolate in York

York is well-known for its long history of cocoa production. The city is named the ‘chocolate city’ due to its deep roots in chocolate making, which we can trace all the way back to the 18th century.

From iconic brands like Rowntree’s and Terry’s to modern day chocolatiers, York has a lengthy list of accomplishments when it comes to crafting delicious treats.

Before we delve into the York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience, let’s have a look at why York is the perfect setting for your venture into chocolate making.

Why is York called the chocolate city?

For centuries, this charming city has been synonymous with the art of chocolate making. Even today, it is captivating the taste buds of chocolate enthusiasts from around the globe.

The rich chocolate legacy of York can be traced back to the early 18th century. It is thanks to a visionary Quaker woman named Mary Tuke.

Back in 1720, Mary Tuke opened her shop in Walmgate. Here she traded an enticing selection of coffee, tea, cocoa, and, of course, chocolate. Little did she know that her entrepreneurial spirit would ignite a passion for chocolate that would endure for generations to come.

As time went on, York became a hub for renowned chocolatiers. This firmly established its prominence in the global chocolate industry.

By 1781, eight confectioners were proudly trading their delectable creations in the city. The passion for chocolate in York soared to unprecedented heights, leading to a staggering 14,000 individuals employed by confectionery companies during the peak of the industry’s prosperity.

What chocolate brands are from York?

When it comes to chocolate brands, York boasts a distinguished lineup. The city has left an indelible mark on the confectionery world.

Among its renowned chocolate exports, Terry’s Chocolate Orange takes the spotlight as York’s most iconic creation. Terry’s Chocolate Orange, with its distinctive segmented shape and delectable blend of chocolate and citrus flavours, has become a beloved treat cherished by chocolate enthusiasts worldwide.

The Terry family’s commitment to quality and innovation propelled this unique creation to global fame. Terry’s Chocolate Orange established itself as a timeless classic and an emblem of York’s chocolate expertise.

Beyond Terry’s Chocolate Orange, York is also synonymous with other illustrious chocolate brands. Rowntree’s, for instance, has a storied history that began in the city. The brand later evolved into a household name renowned for its delectable confections.

The Rowntree family’s commitment to craftsmanship and their pioneering spirit led to the creation of beloved treats such as KitKat and Smarties, which have become global favourites.

Additionally, the names Cravens and Lazenby resonate deeply within the York chocolate scene. These families played integral roles in shaping the city’s chocolate industry. They crafted delicious delights that captivated chocolate lovers for generations.

The legacy of these esteemed chocolate brands continues to thrive. York’s chocolate brands have become synonymous with quality, innovation, and the art of indulgence.

Is chocolate still made in York today?

Today, York remains a haven for chocolate enthusiasts. It continues to preserve its heritage through a blend of time-honoured recipes and innovative confections.

Nestlé still produces Kit Kat, Aero, and Milky Bar in York. The brand purchased Rowntree Mackintosh in 1988.

The fact production remains here is a testament to the city’s chocolate legacy. It is a prominent reminder of why York proudly wears the title of the ‘chocolate city’.

And as well as big brands, a new generation of chocolate enthusiasts are turning their hand to the art.

York is home to many artisan chocolatiers and chocolate makes. This modern wave of chocolate making shows the passion for chocolate is still as palpable ever and chocolate remains a vital export for the people of York.

York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience Review

So, now you know a little bit about the history of chocolate in York, let’s dig into the York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience review.

Here’s everything you need to know about the experience from where it is to what you’ll do.

What is York Cocoa Works?

York Cocoa Works is a chocolate lover’s paradise. It is a place where enthusiasts can dive deep into the world of cocoa and uncover the secrets of chocolate making. Or simply cosy up away from the bustling city with a warming hot chocolate and a sweet treat.

As you explore York Cocoa Works, you’ll find a delightful cafe where you can relax and indulge in a range of chocolatey delights. Treat yourself to decadent hot chocolates, delicious cakes, or artisanal chocolates made on-site. It’s a true sanctuary for chocolate lovers.

The venue also offers a variety of experiences, workshops, and guided tours that invite visitors to embark on a journey through the captivating history of chocolate.

At York Cocoa Works, you can witness the chocolate-making process firsthand. Either by watching the chocolate makers through the large windows as they go about their day, or by getting hands on in a workshop.

Ultimately, York Cocoa Works is a place to learn, taste, create, and savour, all while immersing yourself in the captivating world of chocolate making.

What does York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience include?

Here’s a look at everything that is included in your 60-minute York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience, so you know what to expect on the day.

Introduction to Chocolate Making

The session kicks off with an introduction to the chocolate making process. You learn about the cocoa bean and follow its journey from the equator to York through a series of photographs.

This is a fascinating insight into the laborious process of cocoa growing and farming. Plus, you see just how much effort goes into producing and preparing the cocoa, long before it arrives in York!

The history of chocolate in York

While discovering the chocolate making process, your guide will also touch on the chocolate history of York.

You will hear some familiar names as you explore some of York’s most famous chocolate exports!

Although this isn’t an extensive look at the history of chocolate in York, it covers enough to help understand why chocolate is such an integral part of York’s history.

Plus, you can see that the passion is still thriving today and taking part in the workshop is a wonderful way to support this important York industry.

Chocolate tasting

Next step – chocolate tasting!

To help you decide which chocolate base you want to use for your bar, you’re going to taste your options. 

Your tasting starts with some cocoa nibs, to sample the cocoa in its raw form. I was expecting these to taste bitter, but they were quite fruity! The taste was like raisins, and I was surprised to find I enjoyed eating them.

Then, it was onto the chocolate options. In our session, we sampled one milk chocolate and one dark chocolate base.

I selected the milk chocolate option as I enjoy the creaminess of milk chocolate. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find I also really enjoyed the dark chocolate too! It wasn’t bitter like dark chocolate you buy from the supermarket. It was smooth and rich, which did make the decision a tricky one!

Here’s a fun fact I learned during the tasting part of the workshop! When you buy dark chocolate which has a percentage (e.g., 75% dark) that is the percentage of cocoa used, and the rest of the percentage is the amount of sugar in the bar. Some mass-produced bars may add other ingredients, but if you are looking at craft chocolate bars, the percentage is just made up of cocoa and sugar!

Introduction to the chocolate making process

Now that you’ve brushed up on cocoa farming and picked your base, it’s time for an overview of the chocolate making process.

Your guide will talk you through how they make chocolate at York Cocoa Works. They will explain each step in the process, as well as describing and sometimes demonstrating the machines that they use in their workshop.

Visitors to York Cocoa Works can watch the process as it happens at the other side of the building, through the large windows. These allow passersby a glimpse of chocolate making in action!

From the tedious task of sorting cocoa nibs to the lengthy mixing process, you will get a good understanding of how the chocolate base you are about to use has come into existence.

Learning how to temper chocolate

Properly tempering chocolate is a tricky skill, but it is essential to the chocolate making process.

Tempering involves carefully heating and cooling the chocolate to gradually melt it and bring it to the ideal temperature. You know chocolate has been properly tempered when your chocolate bar is shiny, and it has a satisfying snap sound when broken.

Your guide will help you get to grips with tempering during the workshop. At home, this process is often done using a bain-marie, but in the session, you will test out an innovative method using a hairdryer!

Choosing your flavourings and toppings

Once your chocolate is fully melted and properly tempered, you get to the fun stage of picking your flavourings and toppings!

The chocolate bars can be flavoured using oils, and there are plenty to choose from! Some of the options included orange, mint, lemon, lime, honey, rose, among plenty of other options.

After adding a few drops of flavour to your chocolate, you can head up to the workstation at the front of the room. Here, you will find a fantastic selection of toppings to add to your bar for even more flavour and texture.

Some of the choices include fudge pieces, Rice Krispies, marshmallows, sprinkles, chili flakes, peppercorns, dried raspberries, sea salt and more.

I opted for a lime flavoured chocolate bar with Rice Krispies, fudge pieces and sprinkles. Meanwhile, James settled on a honey flavoured bar with chili flakes and dried raspberries. (Both options were delicious!)

With the many different flavouring and topping options, this is your opportunity to create a chocolate bar that is completely unique to your own personal taste!

Making your chocolate bar

Once you have picked your toppings it is time to construct your chocolate bar.

During our session we could create either a typical chocolate bar, or one shaped like a Yorkshire Rose. I picked the Yorkshire Rose obviously!

This section of the workshop really gets the creative juices flowing.

You can now decide which toppings you want to add inside the chocolate, and which you want to carefully place within the mould before putting your chocolate in. This creates a design on the top of your chocolate bar when it is removed from the mould. So, you can have fun here making it aesthetically pleasing!

Setting your chocolate bar

Once you have placed the toppings in the mould and covered them with chocolate, it is time to set your bar.

At this stage, your guide carefully places the bars into a fridge with your name tag. The bars take around 20 minutes to set, making this the ideal opportunity to indulge in a drink and a treat from the cafe while you wait!

If you prefer, you can head out to explore some more of York while your chocolate bar is setting. Just remember to come back and collect it before they close at the end of the day!

Your completed chocolate bar

Once your bar has set, your guide will carefully wrap it in a clear bag. It is then tied with a ribbon and your name tag is added.

Seeing your creation beautifully wrapped and presented is an extra special touch. Plus, the thoughtful packaging means you can give the bar as a unique handmade gift if you want to.

Alternatively, if you want to reward yourself after your hard work, now is your first chance to bite into your chocolate bar and taste your own creation. Tucking into your treat is the perfect way to round off your York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience!

Is the York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience worth it?

Yes! York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience is worth trying for anyone visiting York!

What I love most about the experience is how thorough it is. It isn’t a case of just turning up and making a chocolate bar. Instead, you leave with a greater knowledge of cocoa and chocolate production and learn valuable skills you can continue to develop at home. Not to mention a delicious, sweet treat!

I also love that the York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience honours an important part of York’s history. Experiences like this one are vital to continuing the chocolate tradition of York. And, in a small way, it enables you to become a part of it.

Overall, I highly recommend York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience. It is perfect for first time visitors who are looking for an unforgettable experience in York.

However, it is also a great activity for Yorkshire locals! Even if you have visited York hundreds of times before, this chocolate bar workshop is a fun way to see a new side of the city and pass an hour learning something new!

Book your York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience

So, if this York Cocoa Works Chocolate Bar Making Experience review has swayed you and you’re ready to dive into the world of chocolate making, click the button below to book your experience now. You won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions about York Cocoa Works

Here are some frequently asked questions about York Cocoa Works to help you plan your visit.

Where is York Cocoa Works?

York Cocoa Works is conveniently situated in the heart of the historic city. This makes it easily accessible for anyone planning a visit. The exact address is 10 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RG.

The easiest way to reach York Cocoa Works depends on your mode of transportation. Here are a few options.

By Train

York is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities across the UK. Upon arriving at York Railway Station, head toward the city centre, following the signs for the historic centre.

The walk takes about 15 minutes from the train station. Once you reach Castlegate, you’ll find York Cocoa Works just a short distance away.

By Car

If you plan to drive to York, there are several car parks available within walking distance of York Cocoa Works. These include Castle Car Park and Nunnery Lane Car Park.

Keep in mind that York’s city centre is often busy, especially during peak times. So, it’s advisable to check for parking options in advance and allow extra time for potential congestion.

Alternatively, you can make use of York’s extensive Park and Ride service. This allows you to park in one of the designated car parks on the outside of the city, then make the journey into the city centre on bus.

By Bus

York has an extensive bus network, and several bus routes pass through the city centre. The closest bus stops to York Cocoa Works are located on Tower Street and Clifford Street, both of which are a short walk away.

By Foot

If you’re already in the city centre, reaching York Cocoa Works on foot is a straightforward option. Many attractions, shops, and hotels are within walking distance. Simply head toward Castlegate, and you’ll find York Cocoa Works nestled along the street.

Once you arrive at York Cocoa Works, you’ll be greeted by the inviting storefront and the aroma of chocolate wafting through the air. The location is ideal for exploring the city further, as it is surrounded by numerous historical sites, charming streets, and other attractions.

Remember to check the opening hours and availability of guided tours or workshops at York Cocoa Works in advance, as it can be a popular destination for visitors seeking a unique chocolate experience.

York Cocoa Works Menu

When visiting York Cocoa Works, you can expect to discover a delightful menu filled with an array of tempting food and drinks, all infused with the essence of chocolate. Here’s an outline of the kinds of offerings you can find:

Hot Chocolates

Indulge in a selection of luxurious hot chocolates, ranging from classic rich and velvety options to more adventurous and flavour-infused varieties.

From traditional dark hot chocolate to creamy white chocolate or even a spicy chili-infused version, there’s a delightful choice to suit every palate.

Chocolate Treats

Delve into a delectable assortment of chocolate treats crafted with care and expertise.

From freshly baked cakes to sumptuous brownies and cookies, each bite promises to deliver a heavenly chocolate experience.

Artisan Chocolates

Immerse yourself in the world of handcrafted artisan chocolates. York Cocoa Works boasts an enticing collection of chocolates made on-site, offering an array of flavours, textures, and unique creations to satisfy your sweet tooth.

From truffles filled with luscious ganache to beautifully designed chocolate bars infused with intriguing ingredients, there’s something to please every chocolate lover.

Refreshments

If you’re seeking a refreshing beverage to complement your chocolatey delights, York Cocoa Works also offers a range of coffees, teas, and other non-chocolate-based drinks.

Whether you prefer a rich espresso, a soothing herbal tea, or a refreshing iced beverage, you’ll find a satisfying choice to quench your thirst.

Please note that the menu at York Cocoa Works may vary depending on seasonal offerings and availability, so it’s always a good idea to check their current menu or inquire with the staff for any specific dietary requirements or preferences you may have.

York Cocoa Works Parking

The closest car park to York Cocoa Works is Castle Car Park. It is located just a three-minute walk away from the attraction.

The car park is located next to Clifford’s Tower, and you can find it by navigating to Tower Street, YO1 9SA.

The car park fills up quickly, especially on weekends and bank holidays, so I would recommend arriving early to secure a space.

Alternatively, York has a fantastic Park and Ride network to get you in and out of the city centre easily. This is usually a cheaper alternative to parking and far less stressful!

Find your nearest Park and Ride route here.

Other chocolate experiences in York

If you’ve got a super sweet tooth and want to explore even more chocolate attractions in York, here are some experiences you don’t want to miss.

York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chocolate as you join a guided tour and tasting that reveals the fascinating history and craft behind this beloved treat.

Step inside the Chocolate Manufactory at York Cocoa Works, where a team of passionate chocolate lovers awaits to guide you through an unforgettable experience.

You’ll gain insight into the origins of cocoa from various corners of the globe. Uncovering the diverse flavours and aromas that make chocolate so captivating.

Plus, delve into the rich history of chocolate making in York, learning about the city’s significant contributions to the chocolate industry.

As you explore the Manufactory, witness the mesmerising transformation of cocoa into delectable chocolate. Marvel at the machinery and techniques employed in the chocolate-making process, gaining a deeper appreciation for the precision and artistry required to create each mouthwatering treat.

The highlight of the journey awaits at the conclusion of the tour—a special tasting led by a knowledgeable cocoa connoisseur.

Indulge your senses as you sample a variety of chocolate crafted on-site, experiencing the nuances of different cocoa flavour notes and strengths. It’s a journey that takes you on a sensory adventure, exploring the full spectrum of the chocolate tasting experience.

Introduction to Chocolate Making Experience

If you want to take your chocolate making to the next level, the Introduction to Chocolate Making Experience at York Cocoa Works is the perfect opportunity.

Dive into the basics of chocolate making, from mastering proper techniques to learning the art of tempering, and craft a stunning array of delightful creations to take home and enjoy.

This introductory class provides the foundation for understanding the intricacies of working with chocolate. With expert guidance, you’ll unlock the secrets of creating sumptuous ganache, learning how to transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering chocolate truffles.

Discover the techniques and tips to achieve professional-grade tempering, ensuring that your chocolates have a smooth, glossy finish and that perfect snap.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll not only create your own chocolate truffles but also beautifully wrap your creations, ready to take home and savour.

Alongside your delicious handmade treats, you’ll depart with a wealth of recipes and invaluable chocolate-making skills, empowering you to continue your chocolate journey in the comfort of your own kitchen.

York Chocolate Story

York Chocolate Story offers a captivating and immersive experience that takes you on a delectable journey through the chocolate-making heritage of York.

As you step inside this interactive museum, be prepared to embark on a unique adventure that unravels the origins and evolution of chocolate production in York. From its humble beginnings to its transformation into a global phenomenon, York Chocolate Story offers a glimpse into the rich history of this irresistible treat.

Prepare to engage your senses as you participate in hands-on activities, tastings, and demonstrations. Explore the fascinating world of chocolatiers throughout the ages and get up close to the equipment used to craft delectable creations.

So, whether you’re a devoted chocolate lover or a curious explorer, make sure to pay a visit to York Chocolate Story. Delight your senses, expand your knowledge, and satisfy your cravings as you immerse yourself in the sweet world of York’s chocolate history.

York Chocolate Trail

For visitors to York seeking a delectable chocolate adventure, the York Chocolate Trail is a must-try experience. This self-guided tour takes you on a journey through the city, uncovering its rich chocolate heritage and providing an opportunity to indulge in a variety of chocolate-related experiences.

As you follow the trail, you’ll discover iconic chocolate landmarks, renowned chocolatiers, and fascinating historical sites that are deeply intertwined with York’s chocolate-making legacy.

Along the York Chocolate Trail route, you will discover historic chocolate shops, modern chocolatiers, chocolate history and museums, plus of course, plenty of chocolate cafés and treats.

The York Chocolate Trail offers a delightful blend of history, creativity, and indulgence, making it an unforgettable experience for chocolate enthusiasts. Ideal for anyone looking to explore the city’s unique culinary heritage, this trail promises a journey of sweet delights and a deeper appreciation for the art of chocolate-making.

Goddards

A short distance from the bustling centre of York lies Goddard’s House and Gardens. It is an enchanting historic estate that beckons chocolate enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Originally constructed for Noel Terry, a prominent figure in the Terry family chocolate dynasty, this grand estate was envisioned as an Arts and Crafts-style residence for him and his wife in 1915.

Noel Terry’s association with the Terry family chocolate company dates to 1911. This was a time when the company had already established its presence for over a century.

With a deep passion for chocolate coursing through his veins, Noel Terry played a pivotal role in shaping the family business and its delectable creations.

For many years, Goddard’s House remained an emblem of the Terry family’s rich heritage, serving as their cherished abode until the 1980s.

Today, the National Trust proudly owns Goddard’s House and Gardens, ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy.

Visitors can explore the estate’s captivating history and wander through its lush gardens, immersing themselves in a unique experience.

Spanning an impressive five acres, Goddard’s House and Gardens boasts a series of charming garden rooms that transport you to a bygone era. Each corner of this enchanting oasis reveals a glimpse of the past. You can walk in the footsteps of generations of Terry’s while basking in the serenity of this captivating piece of history.

So, if you’re eager to delve deeper into the fascinating chocolate history of York, indulge in a tranquil stroll through the picturesque gardens at Goddard’s.

As you meander through the lush greenery and soak up the ambience, you’ll be enveloped in the spirit of the Terry family’s chocolate legacy.

York Chocolate Festival

Every year, the centre of York comes alive with the sweet aromas and delectable treats of the York Chocolate Festival. It is an eagerly anticipated celebration that pays homage to the city’s illustrious chocolate-making heritage.

Dedicated to preserving and sharing York’s rich and lengthy history of chocolate craftsmanship, the festival offers an array of delightful activities that cater to chocolate enthusiasts of all ages.

From engaging workshops to a tantalising chocolate trail and a vibrant market highlighting the talents of local chocolatiers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Hotels in York

If you want to immerse yourself in the chocolate history of York for the whole weekend, check out these great hotels in York for your stay.

Some of my favourite hotels in York include:

• The Grand – This 5-star luxury hotel and spa offers a relaxing stay in a beautiful Grade II listed building. Ideal for an indulgent escape.
• Middletons – This is the ideal hotel if you are looking for a quiet retreat. It is located close to the city centre, just a short walk away along the city walls past Clifford’s Tower.
• Judge’s Court – If you’re looking for a sophisticated escape with just a touch of history, Judge’s Court is for you. This modern take on a historic Georgian building is splendidly done.
• Hotel Indigo – This hotel is the heart of York and is renowned for its beautiful boutique rooms and comfortable beds! It’s the ideal spot for a good night’s sleep after a day exploring!

Still looking for the perfect hotel in York? Check out the map below to find the most convenient option for you.

Other things to do in York

Looking for things to do in York? Here are some more York travel guides to get the most out of your visit!

• Things to do in York when it rains
• Free things to do in York
• Viking things to do in York
• York River Boat Cruises
• Incredible things to do in York at night
• Romantic things to do in York for couples
• Magical things to do in York at Christmas
• Top attractions for your York bucket list
• Complete York city guide
• York Cat Trail
• The Secret City: York
• Treasure Hunt York

Before You Go

So, here is everything you need to know about York Cocoa Works Chocolate Making Experience. Will you try your hand at chocolate making on your next visit to York? Let me know in the comments below!

And if you want more York inspiration ahead of your visit, download your free York Quick Start Planning Guide for a list of the top 10 attractions in York, plus a guide to where to stay, when to visit and more!

Plus, you’ll get four bonus travel planning printables you can use when it comes to planning and packing for any trip!

Until our next adventure,

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