One always hears about the fabled old fashioned sweet shops, but it was not until I stepped into South London vintage confectioner, Hope & Greenwood, that I really understood what all the fuss is about.
Upon entry, all three senses are immediately stimulated. A vintage entry bell tinkles as you swing open the door and the sweet aroma of chocolate and boiled sugar engulfs you as your eyes feast on shelves stacked with glass jars brimming with brightly-coloured boiled sweets and the counters bursting with handmade chocolates, truffles and fudges displayed in 1950s press glassed cake stands.
By the counter sits a large, old-fashioned pair of scales which each order is weighed on before being wrapped in striped paper bags. The splendidly anachronistic post war decor, complete with black and white photos, aged cabinets and bright banners, makes you feel nostalgic for a time most of us have never known.
Even the most committed treats fan would be pushed to name the abundance of goodies, most of which have titles only Willy Wonka himself could have come up with. Surrounded by Sherbet pipes, fizz bombs and cola cubes; visiting this shop is like re living a childhood fantasy.
In addition to the store I visited in Dulwich and their second location in Covent Garden, you can also buy H&G confectionery in Selfridges, John Lewis Foodhalls, Fortnum and Mason, Harrods, Liberty, House of Fraser, Fenwick and Conran and the Hope and Greenwood online shop.
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