Dormouse Chocolates is an independent bean-to-bar chocolate maker based in Manchester, founded in 2014 by Isobel Carse. The brand is known for its small-batch, handcrafted chocolates, complete transparency in sourcing, and strong ethical commitment to cacao growers. Their range includes dark, milk, and white chocolates, often labeled as single origin or single estate, with the region and cacao percentage clearly indicated. Dormouse pays particular attention to experimental flavor combinations - from classic varieties to collaborations with tea brands such as Cha-ology, blending cacao with matcha or houjicha tea. Their studio at Deansgate Mews in Manchester serves as both a workshop and a tasting space, allowing visitors to experience the chocolate-making process firsthand. Today, Dormouse Chocolates is recognized as a pioneer of the British bean-to-bar movement and a model of authentic artisanal craftsmanship in the contemporary chocolate industry.
Awards
Academy of Chocolate - Gold
(2022, 2021, 2020, 2018, 2017)
Thorntons is a chocolate company established in 1911 in Sheffield, England, by Joseph William Thornton. It specializes in the production of chocolate, toffee, and other confectionery products. Thorntons operates both its own branded retail stores and an accompanying online store, catering to a broad range of chocolate lovers. In 2015, the company was acquired by Ferrero, an Italian confectionery giant.
Choc Amor is a chocolate producer located in Lancashire, England. The company specializes in creating handmade chocolates with unique flavor combinations. Choc Amor also offers chocolate-making workshops and has received multiple awards for their products at national and international competitions.
Awards
Great Taste Awards - 2 Stars
(2023, 2022)
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
(2019, 2018)
Kakaw Spices is a chocolate producer based in Kendal. The company specializes in artisanal chocolates and incorporates a variety of spices to create unique flavor profiles. Kakaw Spices emphasizes using high-quality, ethically-sourced ingredients in their products. They offer a range of chocolates, including bars, truffles, and drinking chocolates.
Born Chocolate is a chocolate producer based in Stockport, UK. The company focuses on creating high-quality, handcrafted chocolates. They source their ingredients carefully to ensure premium flavors. Born Chocolate offers a variety of products, including chocolate bars, truffles, and bespoke chocolate gifts.
Hot Cocoa is an artisan chocolate brand based in Knutsford, UK, operating from the Knutsford Indoor Market. They specialize in handcrafted chocolate products, including their popular "OG" in-house range and gourmet bonbons. In addition to their own creations, they curate a selection of artisan chocolate brands, greeting cards, and eco-friendly gifts, focusing on high-quality ingredients and a personalized, small-batch approach.
Jacqueline's Homemade Chocolates & Sweet Treats is based in Blackburn. The business focuses on handcrafted chocolates and various sweet treats, offering a range of products including truffles, fudge, and seasonal chocolate items. The company emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients and artisanal techniques.
Kakoa specializes in luxury vegan chocolates, crafting high-quality, dairy-free confections using premium ingredients. Their products range from classic truffles to innovative plant-based flavors, offering a rich and indulgent chocolate experience.
Pure Cocoa Fine Chocolates is a chocolate producer based in Stockport. The company specializes in crafting high-quality, artisanal chocolates using traditional techniques. They emphasize the use of ethically sourced cocoa beans. Pure Cocoa Fine Chocolates offers a variety of products, including truffles, bars, and seasonal chocolate items. The company also provides bespoke chocolate-making workshops and private tastings.
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot,
nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable.
For the “Top 11 Northwestern English Chocolates” list until June 10, 2026, 0 ratings were recorded, of which 0 were recognized by the system as legitimate.
TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods,
instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.
The initial list of top producers was compiled based on available reviews, awards, local recommendations, media and blog coverage, and consumer reviews.
The list will be updated with ratings from TasteAtlas local ambassadors and TasteAtlas users.
