Sweets Through The Ages

The Oldest Sweet Shop is brimming with history. But it's not just our beautiful building with a story to tell, the history of the sweets is just as magical!

The OG Confectionary

There was no sugar to be found in the early days of sweet making. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans made their sweet treats using natural ingredients such as honey, fruit, and spices. Nuts and dates coated in honey were used as both sweets and medicine. Medieval times brought the arrival of sugar and the introduction of candied fruits and boiled sweets.

The Victorians Change Everything

In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution saw the introduction of new machinery and mass production. Sugar had also become more affordable and sweet shops became social hubs with glass jars filled with liquorice, humbugs and toffees. Just like the ones you see in The Oldest Sweet Shop today! 

The Rise of Pick n Mix

In the early 20th century, the concept of Pick n Mix was born. Sweet lovers were able to choose exactly what they wanted. This proved to be a fun and affordable way for children to spend their pocket money, and the concept quickly found its way into supermarkets and cinemas. Now known as retro sweets, these pocket money treats are as popular on our Pick n Mix counter now as they have ever been

Sweets in the Modern Era

Today there are an endless number of new and exciting sweets available, but the continued popularity of boiled sweets and other classics like bon bons and sherbets prove that you can't beat the nostalgia of traditional sweets, which is why our customers love a visit to The Oldest Sweet Shop!