The UK’s sweetest spots: A chocoholic’s coach guide for World Chocolate Day

Because why should Switzerland have all the fun?

7 July marks World Chocolate Day. A totally legitimate, not-made-up holiday that gives us all the excuse we need to gorge on chocolate treats without guilt. And what better way to celebrate than by travelling the UK in search of the best? Even better, you can skip the faff of driving and let us do the heavy lifting. Air-conditioned coaches, no parking nightmares, and plenty of room to nap off your sugar crash. Win-win.

Below, we’ve rounded up the UK’s top chocolatey destinations worth hopping on a coach for. Whether you like your chocolate artisan and ethically sourced, or simply smothered on a waffle, we’ve got you covered.

1. York – The self-proclaimed chocolate capital

Welcome to York: the city that gave us Terry’s Chocolate Orange and Rowntree’s. Basically, if you’ve ever eaten a KitKat, you've got York to thank.

Must-Do:

• York’s Chocolate Story – A museum experience that actually smells good. Learn the history, make your own chocolate lolly, and try not to embarrass yourself in the tasting room.
  
  
• Cocoa Joe’s – A hidden gem doing small-batch chocolates that look like jewellery and taste like they belong in a vault.
  

Coach stop: York Station
Pair with: A slow wander through The Shambles while pretending you’re in a Harry Potter film, chocolate in hand.

2. Birmingham – Home of Cadbury World (Yes, that’s a real place)

You know that dream where you fall into a vat of melted chocolate and it’s not horrifying? Birmingham is the closest you’ll get.

Must-Do:

• Cadbury World – A glorified chocolate theme park that’s oddly educational. You’ll come for the free samples, stay for the melted Dairy Milk tap.
  
  
• The Chocolate Quarter – Luxury handmade chocolates crafted by people who take cocoa more seriously than most take their careers. Expect pralines that whisper sweet nothings and gift boxes you’ll “accidentally” keep for yourself.
  

Coach stop: Birmingham Coach Station
Bring: An elastic waistband and a healthy respect for Augustus Gloop.

3. Brighton – Chocolate, but make it bohemian

Brighton has long been the go-to for quirky seaside escapes. Turns out, it’s also where chocolate gets artsy.

Must-Do:

• Be Chocolat by Michel Clement – Daily hand‑made chocolates from a true gourmand, using the finest beans and sustainable packaging. It’s artisanal enough to warrant a small bow on your takeaway box
  
  
• Montezuma’s – Organic, inventive, and the kind of place that offers chilli and lime truffles unironically.
  

Coach stop: Pool Valley Coach Station
Don’t miss: Chocolate-dipped doughnuts on the pier. Possibly while dodging seagulls. Romantic, in a messy sort of way.

4. Edinburgh – Gothic charm meets ganache

Sure, Edinburgh is known for castles and questionable weather, but it also hides a surprising number of chocolate delights beneath those cobbled streets.

Must-Do:

• The Chocolatarium – Yes, it's real. Part tasting tour, part hands-on workshop, part enabler of your sweet tooth.
  
  
• Edward & Irwyn – Makers of some of the most beautiful, floral-infused, grown-up chocolate in existence. Definitely not for kids.
  

Coach stop: Edinburgh Bus Station
Mood: Brooding, windswept, holding a handcrafted lavender truffle like a 19th-century poet.

5. London – For the decadent and the deranged

Of course London’s on the list. It’s a city where you can eat a £12 brownie and somehow feel grateful for the experience.

Must-Do:

• Melt Chocolates (Notting Hill & Holland Park) – Stylish, artisan, and surprisingly accessible. Think fresh, handmade truffles and rich hot chocolate served in minimalist luxury. It’s bougie, but not bankrupting. Bonus: you can see the chocolatiers at work, so you can pretend it’s educational..
  
  
• Dark Sugars (Brick Lane) – Pure indulgence. Giant slabs, cocoa-dusted truffles, and the kind of hot chocolate that doubles as a life event.
  

Coach stop: London Victoria Coach Station
Top tip: Bring a second stomach. Or a small suitcase.

So, where to first?

This World Chocolate Day, ditch the stress of airports, fuel prices, and road rage. Book a seat with National Express and glide chocolate-first into some of the UK’s tastiest destinations.

Because chocolate tastes better when someone else is doing the driving.

Explore more from Inspire