The Belgians might have fancy chocolates, the French might have petit-fours, but we British have proved adept in producing everyday affordable sweet treats. Here are a few of our stories about these delights and their history ...
The first solid chocolate bar came into our lives in 1847, the invention of JS Fry and Sons in Bristol, founded by Quakers. Then in 1866, the first mass-produced chocolate bar, Fry's Chocolate Cream, was launched.
The origins of shortbread in Scotland can be traced back to the 12th centur, with the refinement of shortbread to closer to its contemporary flavour popularly credited to Mary, Queen of Scots in the 16th century.
It was one of the most iconic British TV ads ever, and spanned four decades. A mysterious James Bond-style man dressed in all black facing danger at every turn to deliver something of vital importance to a romantically anticipatory woman – a box of Cadbury's Milk Tray chocolates.
Huntley & Palmers was a leading British firm of biscuit makers, originally based in Reading. The company created one of the world's first global brands and ran what was once the world’s largest biscuit factory.
Though best known for its former steel industry, Sheffield is also the heartland of Liquorice Allsorts, invented by acident here in 1899 and still produced in the city in Bassetts' factory.
Bakewell in the Peak District of Derbyshire is home to around 4000 people. Though best known for its famed tart - the town's rich heritage goes back to Saxon times when it was known as Baedeca's Well and, later, Bathwell, due to the many springs in the area.
