York: Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works

Create your own chocolate bar during a lively, hands-on workshop at York Cocoa Works in North Yorkshire. Priced at $28.62 per person and lasting around one hour, this activity offers a delightful way to explore chocolate making in the heart of York’s famous cocoa scene. Attendees get to experiment with white, milk, or dark chocolate, design their own 200g bar, and choose from a variety of flavors and toppings to craft a true personalized chocolate masterpiece.

This workshop is suitable for anyone eager to learn about cocoa origins and tempered chocolate, as well as those who enjoy creative activities. The small group size (typically 6 people, with a potential for 8) helps maintain an intimate and engaging environment. The location at York Cocoa Works is perfect for chocolate lovers, and the experience is accessible for wheelchair users. One thing to keep in mind: the workshop’s durations vary slightly, so checking scheduling options in advance is recommended.

Key Points

• Hands-on chocolate making experience lasting about one hour in York.
• Create a customized 200g chocolate bar with flavors, toppings, and decorations.
• Learn about cocoa origins and the manufacturing process.
• All ingredients and materials included, with the chance to enjoy and take home your chocolate.
• Small group size with personalized attention from guides like Matthew, Holly, or Anabel.
• Participants receive a 10% discount to purchase more chocolates or refreshments after the workshop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meet at York Cocoa House in the Heart of York

The tour begins at York Cocoa House, located at The York Cocoa Works, 10 Castlegate, York YO1 9RG. The meeting point is straightforward, right in the city’s historic center, making it easy to find and accessible for most visitors. The activity ends back at the same location, so there’s no need for additional transport or planning.

The check availability function allows flexible booking, with the option to reserve now and pay later. This makes it easier to fit the workshop into a busy travel schedule or uncertainty about exact timings. Cancellation is free if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for last-minute plans.

Creating Your Own Chocolate Bar: The Hands-On Process

In the workshop, the guide explains the origins of cocoa and how chocolate is made on-site, adding an educational touch to the fun. Attendees sample the shop’s white, milk, and dark chocolates before starting to melt and work with the chocolate.

Participants then mold and decorate their personalized chocolate bars, choosing from a variety of flavors, toppings, and decorations. The tempered chocolate process is demonstrated, ensuring each participant can craft a professional-looking final product. Once the bars are set, they are beautifully wrapped, ready to enjoy at home or share with loved ones.

Many reviews highlight how informative and friendly the guides are—particularly Matthew and Anabel—who make the process accessible and engaging for all ages. The workshop is praised for being fun and educational, with attendees making a superb chocolate bar they can be proud of.

The Location: York Cocoa Works and Its Historic Charm

The workshop takes place at York Cocoa Works, a historic site in Castlegate. This location is central and easy to access, placing you in the middle of York’s lively atmosphere. The venue’s interior is set up to provide a comfortable workspace, with all ingredients ready for use.

The shop and café nearby offer a 10% discount for participants, giving an opportunity to purchase more chocolates or enjoy a hot chocolate afterward. The venue’s friendly staff and informative guides contribute to a positive experience, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.

The Experience: Making and Decorating Your Custom Chocolate Bar

The core of the workshop involves designing your own chocolate bar from scratch. Every participant receives all the ingredients needed to produce a 200g bar. They melt, mold, and add flavors and toppings to create a unique chocolate tailored to their preferences.

The decorating phase is particularly enjoyable, with options like nuts, fruit pieces, or sprinkles. The fun atmosphere is complemented by the knowledgeable guides who answer questions and ensure everyone feels confident in their creations.

Many reviews emphasize how creative and satisfying the process is, with some noting they could make multiple bars if time permitted. The finished chocolate bars are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, ideal for gifting or personal enjoyment.

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The Guide and Group Size: Personal Attention in Small Groups

Guides such as Matthew, Holly, and Anabel are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. They explain the process clearly and answer questions with enthusiasm, making the experience accessible for all ages.

The small group size (generally 6 participants, with a potential for 8) ensures personalized attention and a more interactive environment. Attendees appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to engage directly with the guide throughout the hour.

This setup makes the workshop suitable for families, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions like anniversaries. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise shine through, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The workshop is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can participate comfortably. The duration of about one hour makes it a manageable activity, even during busy sightseeing days.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive on time and check availability in advance, as starting times vary. Since all ingredients are provided, there’s no need to bring anything extra. The price of $28.62 per person includes all materials necessary to create, decorate, and take home a finished chocolate bar.

Post-Workshop Shopping and Future Opportunities

After the workshop, guests can use their exclusive 10% discount to purchase additional chocolates and refreshments from the shop and café. Many reviews mention how delicious the shop’s hot chocolates and chocolate gifts are, making it a good spot for souvenir shopping.

The positive experiences shared by past participants often lead to plans for return visits or upgrading to a masterclass. The staff’s friendly demeanor and the quality of the chocolates make this activity memorable and worth revisiting.

Why the York Chocolate Bar Making Workshop Stands Out

This workshop offers a perfect blend of education and creativity in a friendly, accessible setting. The small group sizes and highly praised guides like Matthew and Anabel ensure that every participant leaves with a beautiful, personalized chocolate bar and a better understanding of the chocolate-making process.

The location at York Cocoa Works adds a historic charm, with the opportunity to shop for high-quality chocolates afterward. The 1-hour duration is ideal for fitting into a day of sightseeing, and the price point makes it an affordable treat for chocolate lovers.

While the workshop is not overly lengthy, it delivers a satisfying, hands-on experience that appeals to all ages. The friendly guides, interactive activities, and delicious results make this a highlight for anyone visiting York with a sweet tooth or an interest in culinary crafts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the workshop suitable for children?
Yes, the workshop is suitable for all ages, including children, who enjoy the creative process of making their own chocolate bars.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity is approximately one hour long, with starting times that vary; it’s best to check availability in advance.

What is included in the price?
The $28.62 fee covers all ingredients and materials needed to create a 200g chocolate bar, which you can take home.

Can I buy more chocolates after the workshop?
Yes, attendees can use a 10% discount to purchase additional chocolates and refreshments from the shop and café.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, York Cocoa Works is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs.

Do I need to prepare anything before the workshop?
No, all materials are provided on-site. Just arrive on time and ready to get creative!

This chocolate-making experience at York Cocoa Works offers a fun, educational, and delicious activity that appeals to families, couples, and groups alike. The small group setting and expert guidance ensure a memorable time, all while producing a personalized chocolate bar to enjoy or gift.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby