A new exhibition invites you to discover the key role chocolate played in the revival of Greenwich.

Step back in time to the 18th century, and discover the history and appeal of chocolate with a recreation of Grace and Thomas Tosier’s famous ‘royal’ Chocolate House.

From its origins in Central America to becoming the mark of sophistication amongst London’s Enlightenment movement’s movers and shakers, this new exhibition traces the journey of chocolate and its impact on Georgian Greenwich society. Discover the complex history of chocolate and its role at the heart of new cultural and scientific conversations of the time.  

Find out how Greenwich became a popular destination for sophisticated people, and a hub for astronomy, science and culture, with Sir Christopher Wren’s iconic architectural project, the Royal Hospital for Seamen at its centre.  

As part of the exhibition, you will be able to venture into a recreation of the Tosier Chocolate House, which was run by Grace Tosier, and was once located on the edge of Blackheath in what became known as Chocolate Row. Moreover, the Discover Greenwich Café will be running a buy one get one free hot chocolate offer.

Tickets can be booked now from 29 March as part of a Painted Hall ticket or walk-ups welcome for Discover Greenwich tickets available from the Visitor Centre.

Programme

Meet the Past: Explore our grounds and meet a historical interpreter dressed as Grace Tosier, the proprietor of the Chocolate House. Strike up a conversation and learn about the Georgian era!
Date: Sunday 25 August
Time: 11am–4pm

Explore the what’s on page for our programme of chocolate-themed events.

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Image credit: A caricature of Lloyds Coffee House (ca. 1690s), Alamy Stock Photo