York invites you to celebrate the city’s proud acknowledgment as the “home of chocolate”, showcasing its rich confectionery heritage.
Visit York will be highlighting the city’s array of events and experiences perfect for everyone – making it the must-visit city for indulgence, creativity and family-friendly fun this spring.
York has been entertaining and sharing sweet treats with visitors for centuries, creating brands and timeless classic confectionery that made global names from the likes of Terry’s and the Chocolate Orange and Rowntree’s and KitKat.
Its rivers brought in the vital ingredients, while the railways transported the final products at speed around the country and the artisans became industrial pioneers.
Today, this sweet legacy continues with treats ranging from cakes and fudge still produced in the city, with chocolate remaining a vital part of York’s past, present and future.
Local artisan chocolatiers and independent businesses play a central role with in-store experiences that celebrate York’s thriving food and drink scene. Family-friendly itineraries bring together chocolate-themed events, must-see attractions and seasonal activities, making it easy to plan a complete February half-term and Easter trip.
Indulge further at the immersive York’s Chocolate Story, narrating the captivating history of chocolate with interactive exhibits, delicious tasters along the way and making your own chocolate bar.
No York adventure is truly fulfilled without savouring delights from the city’s premier chocolatiers, including York Cocoa Works, where you can not only taste but also craft your own chocolate bar using rare and flavourful cocoa beans sourced from farms and communities around the world.
Follow your sweet tooth and take a mouth-watering wander through the city and discover the history behind York’s chocolate foundation with the York Chocolate Trail.
For delicious street food and bites head to the Shambles Food Court nestled in the Shambles Market within a setting steeped in historical charm. You’ll find a haven full of gastronomic delights including crepes, brownies and hot chocolate, as well as artisan crafts and stylish gifts available every day of the week.
Did you know? When the wind is blowing in the right direction, you can smell the lingering aroma of chocolate being made across the city – giving it the name “The Chocolate City”!
Where to stay
With so much to do, you’re sure to want to stay longer in the city, and The Milner York is York’s grandest welcome since 1878, a Victorian showstopper always offering a warm Yorkshire welcome. Don’t miss to try their chocolate desserts and delicious Chocolate Afternoon Tea inspired by the city’s rich history.
Travelling in and around York
Public transport remains the easiest and most convenient way to reach the city centre with York’s chocolate attractions just a short distance away. York Railway Station serves as a major transport hub, with regular services with TransPennine Express, from cities across the north of England and Scotland including Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Scarborough, Middlesbrough, Durham, Newcastle and Edinburgh.
Frequent bus services also bring visitors straight into the heart of the city, travelling in and out of the city couldn’t be simpler. You can plan ahead by checking i-Travel York for up-to-date travel information.
If you do drive, using the York Park & Ride service is the best way to travel by car. With six convenient sites located around the city, you can relax on board zero-emission buses and let someone else do the driving into the heart of York.
Find more to do
For in-person ideas, head to the Visit York Visitor Information Centre, at 21 Parliament Street, where the friendly and knowledgeable team can guide your itinerary. As well as expert advice, it’s the place to pick up attraction and travel tickets, guides and maps. You’ll also find locally made sweet treats and souvenirs.
It’s also the place to pick up your Visit York Pass, the city’s official sightseeing pass, giving you entry to 35+ attractions in York and beyond, as well as extra offers!
With a programme of events and indulgent experiences, you’re sure to find something for those perfect memorable day trips and short breaks in the city.
Plan a sweet trip and explore what’s on by visiting the dedicated “This is York: The Chocolate City” hub on the Visit York website, which brings together event listings, itineraries and inspiration all in one place.
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PRESS RELEASE: 16 February 2026
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