Discover scoops of sweet treats with an extra serving of history at this charming little Yorkshire establishment.
Nestled on the High Street of Pateley Bridge, you’ll find a record-breaking store with bags of flavour. Trading since 1827, The Oldest Sweet Shop in the World wears its heritage with pride, from its name to the vintage till that adorns the counter.

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Having once served as a humble barn, The Oldest Sweet Shop has been satisfying sweet tooths for nearly two centuries. They’ve featured in a whole host of different publications – including Guinness World Records – and appeared in national TV shows with everyone from Robbie Coltrane to Paul Hollywood.
Inside, it’s the epitome of Yorkshire quaintness, with rows upon rows of classic and colourful sweets to gawk at. Displayed in retro jars, with chocolate delights in the glass cabinet, it’s enough to set mouths watering on sight. It literally is like being a kid in a candy store!
Their traditional approach goes far beyond the highly Instagrammable interior, though. Their confectionery is crafted from original 19th-century recipes and made to the highest quality.
The staff also boast unrivalled knowledge of their trade and are always on hand to help you find your favourites, new and old. So, from bonbons to pear drops, liquorice to gummies, whatever confectionery you’re craving, you won’t be disappointed.

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Whether you’re spoiling yourself or looking for drool-worthy gifts, it’s worth a trip to experience this sweet little slice of yesteryear. And if you want a taste without leaving the comfort of home, the good news is they have an online store and have been making the most delightful deliveries for over a decade.
You can find The Oldest Sweet Shop in the World at 39 High Street, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JZ. They’re open 10am to 5pm Wednesday to Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sundays in winter, and 10am to 5pm on Monday to Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sundays in summer.
Cover image © Copyright Yorkshire-List 2025







