York's Chocolate Trail

 York Cocoa House

Chocolate was York's sweet way for its city wealth.  Rowntree and Terry began their life in York and are known internationally for their Kit Kats, Aeros, Chocolate Oranges and so on and the Cravens were famous for the confectionery.  Chocolate sweetly linked up to York's social and industrial development in making the city a success.  Chocolate is associated with the city just as much as the Romans, the Vikings and the Railway.

 Florence Wren, near York Theatre Royal

I spent some time participating in the York's Chocolate Trail (downloadable from York Cocoa House).  It's an interesting way to appreciate how much chocolate played a crucial role in York.  I started my trail at an independent confectioners, near the York Theatre Royal, then proceeded to St Helen's Square where once was the Terry's Shop and Tea Room.  The name is visibly still seen on the building which now houses the Swarovski Shop.  Opposite is Betty's Cafe and Tea Room who is renowned for their handcraft chocolates too.  I enjoyed the quietness inside St Martin Le Grand Church on Coney Street which I passed during the trail.

 Mansion House, St Helen's Square, York

 Former Terry's Shop & Tea Room, St Helen's Square, York

 Stained Glass Window at St Martin Le Grand, York

I continued on passing 28 Pavement, where Rowntree had its store, and some chocolatiers that are situated on The Shambles and King's Square.  Fairfax House and Merchant Adventurer's Hall has a connection with the city's chocolate pioneers.  Mary Tuker, another founder, had a shop on Fossgate and this street is known for its confectioners, delicatessens and independent restaurants.  

 

 Joseph Rowntree Plaque at 28 Pavement, York

 

Chocolate Heaven, The Shambles, York

On this occasion I didn't have the opportunity to check out Rowntree Park, All Saints Church and Goddard House, former house of Noel Terry, and Gardens.  Good to save something for next time!  The trail is a mouth-watering way to appreciate the city's sweet history and how this shaped the city!

River Foss, York

 

 Merchant Adventurers' Hall, York

Fairfax House, York