World’s Oldest Sweet Shop in Pateley Bridge

Step Inside the World’s Oldest Sweet Shop in Pateley Bridge

Fancy a trip back in time?

Hidden away in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales town of Pateley Bridge is a shop unlike any other. Officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continuously operating sweet shop, it has been serving customers since 1827.

Nearly 200 years later, visitors still walk through the door and experience the same sense of wonder.

A Yorkshire Attraction Full of Character

Housed in a building dating back to 1661, the shop is packed with history. Traditional sweet jars line the shelves, vintage scales sit on the counter and an antique cash register reminds visitors of a bygone era.

It’s easy to see why around 20,000 people visit every year.

A Sweet Trip Down Memory Lane

For many visitors, the biggest challenge isn’t finding something they like—it’s deciding what to buy.

Popular favourites include:

• Pear Drops
• Rhubarb and Custards
• Humbugs
• Sherbet Lemons
• Cola Cubes
• Wine Gums

Alongside the classics, you’ll also find modern treats and gift ideas for all ages.

More Than Just a Sweet Shop

The Oldest Sweet Shop has survived two World Wars, economic downturns and even a global pandemic.

Today, local brothers Ben and James Howie are helping preserve this unique piece of Yorkshire heritage while introducing it to a new generation of visitors.

Their goal is simple: keep the shop thriving for another 200 years.

Make It Part of Your Yorkshire Day Out

Whether you’re exploring Nidderdale, visiting the Yorkshire Dales or enjoying a day out in Pateley Bridge, this historic sweet shop is well worth a stop.

Browse the shelves, relive childhood memories and discover why visitors travel from across the UK—and around the world—to experience one of Yorkshire’s most charming attractions.

Have you visited the World’s Oldest Sweet Shop? Let us know your favourite traditional sweet.