The Chocolatarium

The Chocolatarium | Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to The Chocolatarium, a delightful chocolate experience nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. This unique attraction is a must-visit for chocolate enthusiasts of all ages, offering a perfect blend of education, hands-on fun, and indulgence. What sets The Chocolatarium apart is its immersive journey into the world of chocolate, from learning about its rich history to creating your own chocolate bar.

Voted the #1 Best Food Experience in the UK in 2022, it’s a testament to the quality and creativity of the experiences offered here. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is a sweet adventure you won’t want to miss!

Location

The Chocolatarium is located at 3-5 Cranston Street, Edinburgh, EH8 8BE, just off the iconic Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town. This central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. It’s approximately a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, roughly halfway down the Royal Mile between the castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Nearby landmarks include the Scottish Parliament and St Giles’ Cathedral, making it a convenient stop on any Edinburgh itinerary. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps.

Opening Hours

The Chocolatarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that the attraction is closed on 25 December, 26 December, and 1 January. For the most up-to-date information, especially during holidays or special events, visitors are encouraged to check the official website at The Chocolatarium.

How to Get There

The Chocolatarium’s central location makes it easily accessible by various means of transport:

• Public Transport: Take buses along the Royal Mile, such as Lothian Buses routes 23, 35, or 45, which stop near the attraction. Alternatively, use the tram to nearby stops like St Andrew Square or York Place, from where it’s a short walk to Cranston Street.
• Walking: If you’re already exploring the Royal Mile, simply walk towards Holyrood Palace and turn onto Cranston Street. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle.
• Driving: Parking in Edinburgh’s city center can be limited, so public transport is recommended. If driving, use city center car parks and plan ahead. Apps like Waze can help with real-time traffic updates.

Best Time to Visit

To enjoy a less crowded experience, visit on weekdays, preferably early in the morning when it opens at 10:00 AM. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier, so arriving early ensures a more relaxed visit. Since the attraction is indoors, it’s a great option for rainy days, and the chocolate-making activities are fun year-round.

Tickets and Costs

The Chocolatarium offers several experiences with varying prices:

• Tour of Chocolate: £24.50 for adults (ages 16+). This is the standard 90-minute tour where you learn about chocolate, make your own bar, and taste a variety of chocolates.
• Truffle-Making Experience: £29.50
• Chocolate & Other Experience: £39.50
• Chocolate & Other Experience: £39.50

Prices for children (ages 6-16) and any available discounts (e.g., for groups, students, or seniors) are not explicitly listed online, so visitors should check the official website or contact the attraction directly for details. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as tours can sell out. Tickets can be purchased online at The Chocolatarium.

What to Expect

At The Chocolatarium, visitors embark on a 90-minute guided tour that takes them through the fascinating world of chocolate. You’ll discover how chocolate is made, from the cacao bean to the final product, and even get to create your own chocolate bar with a choice of over 40 different toppings, including unique flavors like haggis and gin. The tour concludes with a tasting session in the Tasting Room, where you can sample a wide variety of Scottish and international chocolates.

For those looking for a more specialized experience, there are also truffle-making classes and unique pairings of chocolate with other. The attraction also features a gift shop where you can purchase handcrafted chocolates to take home. Expect a typical visit to last around 90 minutes, with additional time for browsing the shop.

Experience	Duration	Key Activities
Tour of Chocolate	90 minutes	Learn chocolate history, make a chocolate bar, taste 40+ chocolates
Truffle-Making Experience	~90 minutes	Learn truffle-making techniques, create truffles
Chocolate & Other Experience	~90 minutes	Pair artisan chocolates
Chocolate & Other Experience	~90 minutes	Pair artisan chocolates

Safety and Accessibility

The Chocolatarium is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. For those with dietary requirements, including allergies and vegan diets, the attraction strives to accommodate, but please note that some experiences may involve allergens. Visitors with severe allergies should contact the attraction in advance. For accessibility, including wheelchair access, visitors are advised to contact The Chocolatarium directly to ensure their needs can be met, as specific details are not readily available online. The attraction is suitable for children aged 6 and above, with engaging activities for families.

History and Background

The Chocolatarium was founded in 2019 by Jenny, a world traveler and entrepreneur, who brought her passion for chocolate to life in this micro chocolate factory. Located just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town, this attraction quickly became a beloved destination, offering visitors a deep dive into the world of chocolate. From its inception, The Chocolatarium has been dedicated to providing educational and hands-on chocolate experiences, making it a unique and engaging spot for both locals and tourists. A fun fact: the tour includes learning about the 5,000-year history of chocolate, from its origins with the Aztecs, who called cacao the “food of the gods,” to modern-day treats.

Nearby Attractions

The Chocolatarium’s location on the Royal Mile means it’s surrounded by some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks, perfect for a full day of exploration:

• Edinburgh Castle: A historic fortress with stunning views of the city, about a 10-minute walk away.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, with beautiful gardens, roughly 10 minutes away.
• Scottish Parliament Building: A modern architectural marvel, a short walk from the attraction.
• St Giles’ Cathedral: A historic church with rich cultural significance, located along the Royal Mile.
• Royal Mile: A bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and other attractions, ideal for a scenic stroll.

Combine your visit with these sites for a comprehensive Edinburgh experience, with walking times between attractions typically under 15 minutes.

Practical Tips

• Book in Advance: Tours can sell out, especially during peak seasons, so reserve your spot at The Chocolatarium.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Chocolate-making can get messy, so dress accordingly.
• Check Dietary Needs: Inform the staff of any allergies or dietary restrictions when booking.
• Arrive Early: Arrive a few minutes before your tour to ensure a smooth start.
• Visit on Weekdays: For a less crowded experience, aim for early morning weekday visits.
• Explore the Gift Shop: Browse the shop post-tour for unique chocolate souvenirs, including Scottish and international varieties.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of The Chocolatarium?

The Chocolatarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on 25 December, 26 December, and 1 January. For the most current schedule, check The Chocolatarium.

How much does it cost to visit The Chocolatarium?

Ticket prices vary by experience. The standard Tour of Chocolate is £24.50 for adults. Other options include the Truffle-Making Experience (£29.50), Chocolate & other Experience (£39.50), and Chocolate & other Experience (£39.50). Children’s prices and discounts are available on the official website.

Is The Chocolatarium suitable for children?

Yes, The Chocolatarium is suitable for children aged 6 and above. The tours are engaging and educational, with hands-on activities like making your own chocolate bar.

Are there any discounts available for The Chocolatarium?

Discounts may be available for groups, students, or seniors. Check The Chocolatarium or contact the attraction directly for details.

How long does it take to visit The Chocolatarium?

The standard Tour of Chocolate lasts approximately 90 minutes. Visitors may also want to spend additional time in the gift shop.

Is photography allowed at The Chocolatarium?

Photography is generally allowed, but it’s best to confirm with staff upon arrival, as some areas may have restrictions.

Are there guided tours available at The Chocolatarium?

Yes, all experiences at The Chocolatarium are guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into chocolate-making and its history.

What’s the best way to get to The Chocolatarium from the city center?

The Chocolatarium is on Cranston Street, just off the Royal Mile. It’s easily accessible on foot from landmarks like Edinburgh Castle or the Scottish Parliament. Public transport options include buses along the Royal Mile or trams to nearby stops like St Andrew Square.

Are there dining options near The Chocolatarium?

Yes, there are numerous dining options along the Royal Mile, from traditional Scottish pubs to international restaurants. The attraction also has a gift shop with chocolate treats.