British Sweets
British sweets aren’t just about sugar - they’re little bites of home for us expats. From Fruit Pastilles to Walker’s Nonsuch Toffees, these treats bring back memories of corner shops, school tuck boxes, and cheeky trades in the playground. I’m Aaron Armstrong, owner of The Great British Shop in Halifax, and I know firsthand how much these sweets mean to folks across Canada. Whether it’s Wine Gums with no wine or a Sherbet Fountain that leaves your face puckered, these aren’t just snacks - they’re a taste of childhood.
Here’s what makes them special:
- Boiled Sweets & Mints: Classics like Fox’s Glacier Mints and Murray Mints - perfect for slow savouring.
- Toffees & Fudge: Rich, buttery treats like Walker’s Nonsuch Toffees or Bonds Clotted Cream Fudge.
- Chewy & Fruity Sweets: Think Rowntree’s Fruit Pastilles or Maynards Bassetts Jelly Babies - chewy, tangy, and packed with flavour.
- Novelty & Pick 'n' Mix: Fun options like Swizzels Love Hearts and Flying Saucers - nostalgia in every bite.
- Premium Travel Sweets: Elegant tins from Simpkins or M&S Percy Pigs for a grown-up treat.
Missing home? These sweets can be delivered across Canada, so you can enjoy a proper taste of Britain wherever you are. Whether it’s a rainy day or a special occasion, there’s nothing like opening a parcel filled with your favourites. Free shipping on orders over $99 - go ahead, treat yourself.
Top 10 Popular British Candy EVERYONE Must Try
Boiled Sweets & Mints
When it comes to British sweets, boiled treats hold a special kind of magic - they’re steeped in history and wrapped in nostalgia. These are the real classics, the kind of sweets that feel like a warm hug from the past. Forget the flashy, modern sweets with their over-the-top packaging; boiled sweets are the dependable old friends that have been around forever. They’re the ones your gran would pull out of her handbag, wrapped in a crinkly paper bag, and hand to you with a wink.
Boiled sweets are a proper British tradition, delivering layers of flavour as they slowly melt away. And mints? Well, they’re practically medicinal - especially after you’ve popped your third Trebor Extra Strong Mint in a row.
Let’s take a closer look at these timeless treats, from the must-have mints to the pocket sweets that might remind you of grandad’s cardigan stash.
Classic Mints
First up, we’ve got the iconic Fox’s Glacier Mints. These minty gems have been freshening breath and clearing sinuses for generations. If you’re in the mood for something fruity, the Fox’s Glacier Fruits deliver a bright, citrusy punch.
For a stronger minty hit, you can’t go wrong with the Trebor Extra Strong Mints. Prefer something a bit gentler? The Trebor Softmints are smooth and refreshing without the intense kick. And if spearmint’s your thing, the Trebor Spearmint Rolls offer a classic flavour that never gets old.
Don’t forget the Murray Mints - the famous “too-good-to-hurry” mints that encourage you to slow down and savour the moment. Then there’s the delightful range of Simpkins Drops, which come in flavours like Mixed Mint, Citrus Ginger, and Lemon Honey & Camomile. Fancy something a bit different? The Butterscotch tastes like a little piece of sunshine, while the Coffee might just make you reconsider your next espresso.
Grandad’s Pocket Sweets
Now, let’s talk about the sweets that come with a side of nostalgia - the ones you’d find tucked away in grandad’s cardigan pocket.
Polo Mints are the undeniable champions here. Known as “the mint with the hole,” they’ve been a go-to for their crunch, portability, and satisfying flavour. The Spearmint variety offers a bit of extra zing, while the sugar-free version lets you indulge without the guilt.
Then we’ve got Bonds Mint Imperials - those little minty spheres that sometimes clump together, turning your treat into a fun edible puzzle. And who could forget Bonds Mint Humbugs? With their charming stripes and evolving flavour, they’re a joy to savour from start to finish.
The beauty of these boiled sweets lies in their simplicity. No flashy colours, no over-the-top gimmicks - just pure, concentrated flavour perfected over decades. Whether you’re treating yourself or sending a care package to a fellow expat, these classic British sweets are guaranteed to bring a smile. And if you decide to dig into the tin while binge-watching your favourite telly, don’t worry - we won’t judge.
Toffees & Fudge
Let’s dive into the sweet world of indulgence - those irresistible toffees and fudges that feel like they’ve been plucked straight from your nan’s hidden stash. These aren’t just any sweets; they’re rich, buttery treasures that deserve to be savoured, not gobbled. Whether it’s the satisfying snap of a toffee or the creamy melt of a fudge, these treats are pure bliss.
British toffees and fudges have that magical ability to whisk you back to childhood. Remember sneaking a treat from the tin or finding one tucked into your lunchbox on a dreary school day? Made with real butter, cream, and recipes that have stood the test of time, these confections are little bites of nostalgia. Let’s take a closer look at what makes them so special.
Walker's Nonsuch Toffees
First up, the legends of British toffee: Walker's Nonsuch. These classics have been delighting sweet tooths since 1894, crafted with traditional methods that keep their charm alive. The Walker's Nonsuch Salted Caramel Toffees strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, while the Walker's Nonsuch English Creamy Toffees deliver that timeless buttery chew we all crave.
Fancy something a bit different? The Walker's Nonsuch Liquorice Toffees offer a bold, nostalgic flavour. And if you’re the indecisive type (no judgment), the Walker's Nonsuch Assorted Toffees provide a delightful mix to keep things interesting.
What makes Walker's toffees so special is their firm, chewy texture. They’re not the kind of sweet you rush through - they make you slow down, savour, and appreciate every buttery, caramelised bite.
Creamy Fudge Options
While toffees are the dependable old favourites, fudge is like their posh cousin - rich, creamy, and oh-so-indulgent. British fudge, especially the good stuff, is known for its velvety texture and melt-in-your-mouth magic.
Take the Bonds Clotted Cream Fudge, for example. It’s smooth, rich, and guaranteed to transport you to memories of seaside holidays and village fêtes. Then there’s the Werther's Original range - those individually wrapped nuggets of caramel heaven. They’re perfect for sharing, though no one will blame you if you keep them all to yourself. Their creamy caramel flavour and silky texture make them a comforting staple for any sweet stash.
What sets proper British fudge apart is its handmade quality. Often crafted in small batches, it has that authentic, homemade charm that mass-produced versions just can’t replicate. But beware - if you don’t hide your stash, it might mysteriously vanish. Stocking up is always a good idea, especially for those moments when you need a little taste of home. And hey, you’re an adult now, so no one’s stopping you from having an extra piece (or three).
The best part? You don’t need to hop on a plane to enjoy these treats. With shipping across Canada, you’re just a few days away from a proper British indulgence.
Chewy & Fruity Sweets
Let’s keep this trip down memory lane going with the chewy, fruity sweets that turned school breaks into full-blown trading sessions. Remember swapping a Wine Gum for a Jelly Tot? That was the kind of high-stakes barter system only kids could master.
British chewy sweets are more than just sugary snacks - they’re a punch of tangy, fruity goodness in every bite. Some were so sour they’d make your face scrunch up like you’d just bitten into a lemon, but that was half the fun. With real fruity flavours and a texture that was just the right kind of chewy, these sweets were built to last - rolling them around in your mouth to stretch out the joy was practically a sport.
Let’s dive into the classics, starting with the big hitters from Rowntree’s and Maynards Bassetts.
Rowntree's & Maynards Bassetts
First up, the legends of the chewy sweet world. Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles were those little bursts of fruity magic - sweet and tart at the same time. Everyone had their favourites. The black ones? Always divisive. But the orange and strawberry? Absolute winners.
Then there were Rowntree's Jelly Tots, tiny but packed with flavour. Perfect for sharing... or not. And let’s not forget Rowntree's Tropical Tots, which gave us a taste of the exotic - well, as exotic as an eight-year-old could imagine.
For those who liked a bit more of a challenge, Rowntree's Fruit Gums were the chewy champions. These weren’t sweets you could rush through - they demanded commitment. And then there were Rowntree's Wine Gums, the ultimate playground currency. Despite the fancy name, they were perfectly kid-friendly and highly tradeable.
From the Maynards Bassetts side, we had Maynards Bassetts Wine Gums and the ever-iconic Maynards Bassetts Jelly Babies. Sure, eating a baby-shaped sweet might’ve felt a bit odd for a second, but that didn’t stop anyone from biting their heads off first. The Maynards Bassetts Sports Mix added some fun shapes to the mix, and Maynards Bassetts Liquorice Allsorts were the ultimate love-it-or-hate-it treat - splitting opinions and friendships alike.
While these classics set the bar, Barratt and Millions brought their own quirky flair to the sweet scene.
Barratt & Millions
Now we’re into the quirky and wonderfully British territory. Barratt Dolly Mix was like a bag of surprises - jelly bits, sugar-coated pieces, and those odd little coconut strips that somehow worked together. Barratt Milk Bottles were pure comfort sweets, with their creamy vanilla flavour and satisfying chew.
Then there was the Barratt Sherbet Fountain, which was less of a sweet and more of an adventure. That liquorice stick paired with fizzy sherbet powder? Messy, chaotic, and absolutely brilliant. And for something a bit more traditional, Barratt Nougat Bars offered a chewy treat with a flavour that lingered.
Finally, we have the tiny but mighty Millions Apple and Millions Cola. These tiny sweets packed a serious punch of flavour. With so many in a pack, they were perfect for sharing - or for making your stash last longer than anyone else’s.
What makes these chewy treats so special is their boldness. They’re not trying to be fancy or subtle - they’re unapologetically fruity, tangy, and fun. Whether you’re reliving old memories or introducing your Canadian mates to these British gems, they bring a taste of home that’s hard to beat.
And the best part? Now that you’re an adult, you can skip the playground politics and keep a secret stash of Jelly Tots or Wine Gums all for yourself. Pure, chewy happiness whenever you need it.
sbb-itb-decb2b4
Novelty & Pick 'n' Mix Sweets
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the novelty treats and pick 'n' mix treasures that turned every shop visit into an adventure. These weren’t just sweets - they were conversation pieces, schoolyard bargaining chips, and, let’s face it, the reason your pockets were always mysteriously sticky.
British novelty sweets have always been known for their quirky flavours, playful designs, and the warm wave of nostalgia they bring. Who could forget the thrill of standing in front of a pick 'n' mix station, bag in hand, carefully selecting your favourites, only to walk away with a sugary jackpot?
Swizzels & Flying Saucers
Let’s kick things off with the legends of the novelty aisle: Swizzels. Their famous Swizzels Love Hearts have been sparking smiles for generations with their cheeky messages like "BE MINE", "KISS ME", or even the more modern "TEXT ME." Perfect for sharing, trading, or just enjoying a bit of lighthearted fun.
If you’re looking to make a bigger statement, there’s always Giant Love Hearts - the oversized version that says it all, louder and prouder.
Then there’s the divisive Swizzels Parma Violets. With their floral flavour, they’re either a sophisticated treat or, as some might say, a reminder of your gran’s soap. Love them or leave them, they’ve got a charm that’s hard to ignore.
And who could forget Bonds Flying Saucers? These pastel-coloured rice paper shells filled with fizzy sherbet were crowned the most popular retro sweet in a 2004 UK poll. One bite of that tangy sherbet and you’re instantly transported back to carefree school days.
Bon Bons & Pear Drops
Now onto the chewy champions and hard sweet legends of the pick 'n' mix world. Bonds Strawberry Bon Bons are a classic for a reason - their chewy texture, dusting of icing sugar, and burst of strawberry flavour were practically made for sticky hands and happy faces.
For something a bit tangier, Bonds Blue Raz Bon Bons pack a punch with their blue raspberry zing, earning them a rightful spot in the hall of sweet-tooth fame.
And then there are Bonds Pear Drops, the hard sweets that taste exactly like pears. These little gems have been a staple in corner shop jars for decades, offering a long-lasting treat perfect for road trips or whenever you’re in the mood for something that sticks around.
What makes these novelty and pick 'n' mix sweets so special is their unapologetic sense of fun. They’re not here to impress with sophistication - they’re here to remind you that it’s perfectly fine to indulge your inner child. So go ahead, recreate that ideal pick 'n' mix bag without the pressure of choosing just one favourite.
Now that we’ve savoured these playful classics, let’s turn our attention to some premium travel sweets that bring a touch of elegance to your nostalgic indulgence.
Premium Travel Sweets
After revelling in the nostalgia of pick 'n' mix, it’s time to shift gears and indulge in something a touch more sophisticated. These premium British treats take the joy of childhood sweets and give them a grown-up twist, perfect for expats craving a taste of home with a dash of elegance. Think chic tins and refined flavours that make it perfectly acceptable to polish off the whole lot without a hint of guilt.
Whether you’re gearing up for a long road trip across the Prairies or simply looking for a treat to pair with your evening cuppa, these luxury sweets strike just the right chord between comfort and class.
Simpkins Luxury Tins
When it comes to premium travel sweets, Simpkins is a name that’s hard to beat. Known for their top-notch quality and timeless flavours, these tins are a staple for anyone who appreciates a bit of indulgence on the go.
For British expats in Canada, a few flavours seem to hit especially close to home. The Simpkins Ginger Fruit Drops and Simpkins Mulled Wine are favourites, offering that warm, comforting taste that feels just right during those long, chilly Canadian winters.
If you’re after something a bit more refined, the Simpkins Lemon, Honey & Chamomile delivers a soothing and sophisticated blend, while the Simpkins Citrus Lemon & Sour Cherry balances sweet and tart beautifully. For those who prefer the classics, Simpkins Butterscotch and Simpkins Barley Sugar are timeless options that never fail to please.
These tins are more than just sweets - they’re a little taste of home, wrapped up in a polished package. And speaking of British icons, let’s not forget another beloved name.
M&S Confectionery
Marks & Spencer has been a go-to for quality for as long as most of us can remember, and their confectionery range is no exception. These treats are a delightful nod to British sweet-making, packed with all the nostalgia of childhood favourites but made for grown-ups to enjoy.
At the top of the list is the legendary M&S Percy Pig range. These cheerful gummy sweets have become a bit of a cultural phenomenon, guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone who’s ever had them. And let’s not overlook the M&S Colin the Caterpillar gummies - bite-sized, portable versions of the beloved Colin cake that are just as fun as they are tasty.
Living in Canada doesn’t mean you have to miss out on these little luxuries. Whether you’re hitting the road for a cross-country adventure or curling up at home, these Simpkins tins and M&S confections make any moment feel a bit more special.
The magic of these premium travel sweets is their ability to transform the everyday into something worth savouring - a sweet reminder that treating yourself to quality is always a good idea.
Order Now for Canada-Wide Delivery
Ready to bring a little taste of home straight to your doorstep? Whether you’re nestled in the mountains of Vancouver or braving the blustery winds of St. John’s, we’re here to deliver a slice of Britain to you, no matter where you are in Canada. Let’s face it, the local shops just can’t scratch that nostalgic itch.
Ordering is as easy as pie. Head over to our online store, pick out your favourites, pop them in your cart, and check out. We accept all the usual payment options, and rest assured, your payments are secure. Most orders show up within 5-7 business days - just enough time to clear a spot in the cupboard.
The real magic? That moment when the parcel arrives. Maybe it’s one of those dreary Canadian days - grey skies, drizzle, the works - and then, boom, there’s a box at your door. Inside? Jelly Babies, Murray Mints, or that Sherbet Fountain you tossed in on a whim. It’s like a little care package from back home.
Treat yourself. Picture sharing a bag of Fruit Pastilles on a road trip to the cottage or surprising a fellow Brit with a proper Percy Pig package for their birthday. And hey, no judgement here if you decide to keep that tin of Simpkins all to yourself. You’re an adult; you’ve earned it.
Oh, and here’s the cherry on top: free shipping on orders over $99. So, why not toss in an extra bag or two? Call it an emergency stash - or just a Tuesday treat. Same difference, right?
Craving a taste of home? Load up your cart, and we’ll handle the rest. Straight to your door. Go on, you deserve it.
FAQs
What makes British sweets so special compared to other candies?
British sweets have a way of tugging at the heartstrings with their nostalgic charm and distinct flavours. While North American candies often go big with bold and tangy notes, British confections take a gentler approach. They lean into subtler, more delicate flavours paired with a comforting sweetness that feels like a warm hug. Made with traditional recipes and ingredients, they capture the essence of simpler times - think corner shops, tuck boxes, and your nan’s sweet jar brimming with treats.
Whether it’s the chewy goodness of Wine Gums or the rich creaminess of a classic toffee, these sweets aren’t just something to nibble on. They’re a bite-sized reminder of home, perfect for anyone yearning to relive those cherished moments of the past.
How can I get my favourite British sweets delivered in Canada?
If you’re missing the taste of British sweets, there’s no need to hop on a plane - you can get your fix right here in Canada. The Great British Shop makes it easy to indulge in all your favourite treats with just a few clicks. They’ve got everything from classic boiled sweets and rich toffees to chewy delights and nostalgic pick 'n' mix. Best of all, they deliver right to your doorstep, no matter where you are in Canada.
Whether you’re looking to relive childhood memories or simply stock up on some proper sweets, they’ve got the goods to satisfy your cravings.
What are the most nostalgic British sweets that UK expats in Canada miss?
For Brits living in Canada, classic British sweets are like a sugary portal to their childhood. Think of Fox’s Glacier Mints, Polo mints, Murray Mints, or the tangy delight of Rhubarb & Custard boiled sweets - these are the flavours that defined simpler times and have a way of tugging at the heartstrings.
Then there are the chewy classics like Rowntree’s Fruit Pastilles, Jelly Babies, and the fizzy fun of Barratt Sherbet Fountains. These are the sweets that remind you of school tuck shops or those cheeky trips to the corner shop when you’d spend your pocket money on a bag full of treats.
And who could overlook the rich, buttery goodness of Walker’s Nonsuch Toffees or the creamy indulgence of Bonds Clotted Cream Fudge? These were the sweets your nan always seemed to have tucked away in her sweet jar, ready to spoil you rotten. For many expats, these aren’t just candies - they’re little bites of home, packed with memories and comfort.
Leave a comment