Walk in Wonka’s Footsteps at These British Filming Locations & Chocolate Experiences

by Scott Hartbeck
Last updated: 9:45 AM ET, Mon December 18, 2023

Fans of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be happy to know they can experience the wild and wonderful world of Willy Wonka during their next trip to Britain.

The newly released film Wonka is based on the 1964 novel written by British author Roald Dahl, and it tells the tale of Willy Wonka’s early days as an eccentric chocolatier, counting several notable British sights as backdrops.

From actual film shooting locations to chocolate-centric attractions, you will find a wonderful Wonka-esque experience waiting for you at any of the following places in Britain.

Radcliffe Camera and All Souls College, Oxford University. Oxford, UK (Arsty / iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Sweet Set-Jetting

Located in Southwest England, Bath is an elegant city home to graceful gardens & bridges, romantic riverscapes and the historic Roman Bath and Thermae Bath Spa. The Colonnades, Bath Abbey (and the floral roundabout Orange Grove in front of it), Bath Street and Parade Gardens all appear in the film.

Known around the world for its namesake university, Oxford is a bustling city in the heart of England. Radcliffe Camera—a working library of the University of Oxford located in a stunning Baroque building—appears in WONKA as does nearby Catte Street and Sheldonian Theatre.

In the southeastern section of London, the Rivoli Ballroom and Eltham Palace appear in the film. North of London in St. Albans, the Ye Olde Fighting Cocks pub, Verulamium Park and Abbey Mill Lane were also filming locations for Wonka.

Delicious Experiences

Britain's contribution to the world of chocolate is undeniable, with some of the world's most adored brands having their roots here. The following are just a few of the best chocolate shops & attractions in Britain that you can visit—all guaranteed to leave a great taste in your mouth.

Charbonnel et Walker – London, England

London’s oldest chocolate shop, Charbonnel et Walker dates back to 1875 and has multiple luxurious locations across the city. The original location is located in the elegant Royal Arcade on Old Bond Street, and that's the one chocolate lovers should visit. Once there, sample some of their renowned truffles or their famed range of dark chocolates.

The Chocolatarium – Edinburgh, Scotland

Make your own personalized Scottish-themed chocolates, then head to the Chocolatarium's tasting room in order to sample a wide array of delights from both Scottish and international chocolatiers. Expect interesting flavors like haggis chocolate, gin chocolate and much more.

Dark Sugars – London, England

Famed for decadent hot chocolates, Dark Sugars also specializes in chocolate creations like dark chocolate with popping candy and white chocolate truffles with nutmeg. The shop's flavors are inspired by the owner’s home in Ghana, with creations reflecting British and West African influences. Located on Brick Lane in East London, Dark Sugars also has a flagship Cacao House and ice cream shop in Greenwich.

The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York, commonly known as York Minster,.

York’s Chocolate Story – York, England

As if you needed another reason to visit this walled cathedral city in northern England? At one point, York was home to several of the biggest chocolate companies in Britain, and in fact, the Kit-Kat bar was born here. During a visit to York's Chocolate Story, you will learn all about the rich history of York’s chocolate-making families and get to try your hand at making some yourself.

Halen Mon – Anglesey, Wales

Halen Mon is famed around Britain for its remarkable sea salt and after taking their fascinating tour, you can sample some of their mouthwatering sea salted fudge and chocolate bars.

Chocolate and Whisky Tour at The Clydeside Distillery – Glasgow, Scotland

Opened in 2017, the Clydeside Distillery brought distilling back into the center of Glasgow, becoming the first dedicated single malt distillery there for over 100 years. Book their Chocolate and Whisky Tour, so sample their whisky paired with sensational artisan chocolates.

Harrods Chocolate Hall – London, England

This iconic department store is famed for its Harrods Gold Bar, which has been pleasing chocolate fans for over 20 years. Soon, Harrods Chocolate Hall will be home to The Chocolaterie, which will see chefs make everything from bonbons and chocolate bars to chocolate-dipped fruit before visitors' eyes.

Dr Choc’s Windsor Chocolate Factory – Windsor, England

One of the smallest chocolate factories you’ll ever see, Dr. Choc's is located near Windsor Castle, using only the finest ingredients in its classic & inventive chocolates (flavors like salted caramel and lavender are popular). Book a tasting class for the ultimate experience.

Cadbury World – Birmingham, England

For nearly 200 years, Cadbury has been bringing smiles to faces with its ever-popular chocolate. At Cadbury World, you are able to step into the scrumptious world of Britain's most popular chocolate maker. There will be plenty of samples as you learn the history of the brand and its beloved bars.