York isn’t just about history, medieval streets, and cozy pubs — it’s also a city that offers some delightful hands-on experiences. If you’re a fan of chocolate, you’ll find that York’s chocolate workshops turn a sweet craving into an educational treat. We particularly like the Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works for its fun, personal touch and expert tips, and the Introduction to Chocolate Making class for its in-depth approach to crafting truffles. Both offer a chance to get behind the scenes of York’s sweet fame—home to Kit Kat bars and Terry’s Chocolate Orange—and to take home your own edible masterpiece.
In this list, we’ve chosen two top-rated chocolate experiences, focusing on their unique features, value, and suitability for different kinds of travelers. Whether you want a quick, fun activity or a more comprehensive class, these options cover the bases. Read on for all the details.
1. Chocolate Bar Making Workshop – York Cocoa Works
For around $27.60 per person, this hands-on workshop offers a chance to learn how to make your own chocolate bar from scratch in York. The 1 hour 15 minutes session is ideal for those who love sweets but also want to understand the craft behind a perfect chocolate bar. You’ll learn how to temper chocolate—an essential skill for glossy, stable bars—and experiment with a variety of flavor combinations and toppings. The class setting is intimate, with small groups that foster personalized attention, making it ideal for families with older children or anyone who enjoys tactile, creative activities.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to taste your own creation and take it home, which adds an extra layer of satisfaction. The instructor is friendly and knowledgeable, sharing fun facts about cocoa’s origins and ingredients along the way. The reviews highlight how much people enjoy the relaxed, interactive atmosphere—“I learned so much and got to experiment freely,” said one. The price is reasonable considering you leave with your own custom chocolate bar, making it excellent value for a memorable, practical treat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a quick, engaging experience that combines learning, creativity, and tasty results.
2. Class – Introduction to Chocolate Making at York Cocoa Works
This 2.5-hour class costs around $85.54 per person and offers a more comprehensive look at how chocolate is produced. It’s suited for those who want to go beyond the surface—covering everything from cocoa sourcing to the actual techniques of tempering, ganache making, and packaging their own chocolates. You’ll be provided everything needed for crafting delicious truffles, and you’ll learn about York’s legendary chocolate history, making it both an educational and culinary experience. The class includes sampling various chocolates, which adds flavor to the learning process and connects you to York’s famous chocolate industry.
What’s special about this experience is that you walk away with approximately 300 grams of your own handmade chocolates and recipes to repeat at home, making it excellent value for a detailed, skill-building session. The reviews note the quality of instruction and the joy of creating something edible from scratch. Although the class is longer and slightly pricier, it’s ideal for serious chocolate enthusiasts or those wanting to impress friends with homemade treats. Keep in mind that the small group size and detailed focus make the experience more personal and immersive.
Bottom Line: Best suited for dedicated chocolate fans eager to master truffle-making techniques and learn about York’s confectionery history firsthand.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two workshops, think about your priorities. If you want a quick, fun, and hands-on activity—especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want a taste of chocolate-making—the Chocolate Bar Making Workshop (see more) is your best bet. It’s affordable, relaxed, and leaves you with a delicious souvenir.
However, if you’re craving a deeper dive into chocolate craftsmanship and are willing to spend more time and money, the Introduction to Chocolate Making class (more info) offers a more complete experience, perfect for those who want to learn the secrets of ganache and tempering, and enjoy a more immersive workshop.
Both options are fantastic, but your choice should match your interests, schedule, and budget. Be sure to book early, especially during peak seasons, as these popular classes fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
York’s chocolate workshops provide more than just sweet treats—they’re an interactive way to connect with the city’s famous confectionery roots. For a quick, fun activity with the family, the Chocolate Bar Making Workshop delivers a memorable, hands-on experience. For those who want to deepen their chocolate skills and bring home more than just a taste, the Introduction to Chocolate Making class offers a detailed, artisanal approach.
No matter which you pick, these experiences are a delightful way to add an authentic, edible souvenir to your trip. Book in advance, and enjoy discovering the sweet side of York with a fun, flavorful class.
