Best Chocolate Experiences in the UK

Chocolate has to be one of the best things in life, and the UK does it splendidly. With big players like Cadbury and smaller artisan creators blessing our tastebuds for centuries, Britain is a paradise for chocolate lovers. From interactive museums and historical tours to luxurious tastings and cosy cafés, join CrossCountry as we explore some of the best places to indulge in the finest chocolate adventures across the nation. 

Cadbury World

Cadbury World has been beloved in Birmingham since the early nineties. They offer a delicious journey packed with fun that takes visitors through the history of one of the UK's most famous and iconic chocolate brands. Families can explore interactive exhibits, watch chocolatiers at work, and even make their own delicious Cadbury treats. Highlights include the 4D Chocolate Adventure, where visitors can fly a Cadbury Creme Egg spaceship and ride a Crunchie rollercoaster, and the Cadbury Chocolate Quest, a ride new to Spring 2024 that tasks visitors with collecting all the ingredients needed for a Dairy Milk. 

Cadbury World can be reached by train from various locations across the UK. There are onward train and bus services from Birmingham New Street, which can be easily accessed from across the UK with CrossCountry. Just hop on a train from Sheffield station, Manchester Piccadilly, Leamington Spa station and more. 

Yorks Chocolate Story

York's Chocolate Story is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The immersive experience teaches visitors about the city's chocolate-making heritage, which many don't know about. The guided tour includes stories about chocolate's ancient origins, the chocolate-making families of York and the chance to see the process in action. There's also plenty of opportunity to taste a variety of chocolates and even create your own personalised bar. We recommend taking part in the Truffle Rolling Tour, which offers visitors the chance to make their own delicious truffles covered in the finest Belgian chocolate.  

Chocolate Story is located in York, a twenty-minute walk or bus journey from York station. To reach York there are various CrossCountry services available from Leeds station, Darlington station and further afield. 

The Chocolatarium

Voted TripAdvisor’s top food experience in the UK, The Chocolatarium is one of the best tourist activities in Edinburgh. Start off with the Tour of Chocolate, which teaches you all about the origins of the sweet treat, how the experts make it and a few taste tests of your own in the Tasting Rooms. This is a great experience to bring the kids along to with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that will keep them entertained and educated about the world of chocolate.  

For a romantic date idea, book a ticket to the Chocolate and Wine Experience. The evening gives chocolate-lovers the chance to try specially selected wines paired with high-quality artisan chocolate, all while learning about the history of cacao. There are non-alcoholic and Vegan options available too. 

The Chocolatarium is a ten minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley and close to a number of nice hotels, including the famous Balmoral Hotel on Princes Street. Catching a train to Edinburgh is easy with CrossCountry, we service multiple routes from key stations like Glasgow Central and Newcastle station. 

Chocolate Utopia

For a more intimate chocolate experience, Chocolate Utopia in Nottingham is a real hidden gem. This charming shop and café offer handcrafted chocolates made on-site, using the finest ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a variety of chocolatey treats, from truffles to hot chocolate, all in a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The expert staff are passionate about chocolate and eager to share their knowledge, making it a must-visit stop for any enthusiast. 

Chocolate Utopia is a ten minute walk from Nottingham station, accessible for an enjoyable day trip from Derby station and Sheffield station. Or for a weekend staycation, we run CrossCountry services from further afield, like Birmingham New Street and Bristol Temple Meads. 

The Chocolate Box Hotel

The Chocolate Box Hotel, also known as the Chocolate Boutique Hotel, in Bournemouth offers a stay like no other. This beautiful hotel features chocolate-themed rooms, where guests can get involved in a range of themed experiences, including chocolate-making workshops and tasting sessions. It's an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a special family treat. 

The Chocolate Box Hotel is a fifteen-minute bus ride, or a thirty-minute walk, from Bournemouth station. This station is accessible from various southern CrossCountry stations, including Southampton Central and Reading station. 

If you’re planning a chocolate adventure around the UK, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.