Their Story
In 1889, as the English Victorian era was nearing its end, John and Rebecca Whitaker opened a grocery shop in a small village in North Yorkshire, called Cross Hills, helped by their children Reg and Ida.
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Several years later, it was Ida, who persuaded her father to change the shop into a baker’s and confectioners, and in 1903, she began making chocolates, thus writing the first chapter of Whitakers Chocolates’ story
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​n 1926, the shop was moved to its present location in Skipton and after World War II, Reg’s wife – Claire, continued running the family shop, also overseeing the development of a chocolate factory on the site of the old bakery.
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Today, Whitakers are the largest distributors of personalised chocolates, supplying products to some of the finest hotels, restaurants and cruise ships around the world.
Visit Skipton: Gateway to the Dales and Home of:
Whitakers Chocolates
Skipton is an historic market town famous for its well preserved Castle, charming cobbled streets, award winning shops and pubs and bustling open air market that's been running since medieval times
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Built in the 18th Century, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is testament to Britains Industrial genius, playing a vital role in the industrial revolution this incredible engineering feat transformed trade and transport with Skipton playing a vital role.
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Today the canal offers a glimpse into the past, with picturesque walks and scenic cruises
Nearby Bolton Abbey dates back to the 11th Century and is a popular summer day trip and camp out spot for families.
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The nearby Embassy & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway offers daily trips as well as a magical "Polar Express" Experience each Christmas, where guests enjoy cookies and hot chocolate as well as a visit from the big man himself who delivers a magical bell as a keep sake for each child.
