Family trip to Cadbury World

As a child, I never went to Cadbury World, but it was always somewhere I wanted to go. We used out Tesco Clubcard points to take the boys for a fun family day out. My inner child was buzzing – and I have to say, it did not disappoint!

On arrival, we received a couple of free bars each – Cadbury Caramel and Twirl – and then it was straight through to the Aztec Jungle. We travelled back in time 1,000 years to Mexico to learn about the Mayan Indians and the origins of the cocoa bean.

We then went forward in time to Bull street, meeting John Cadbury and seeing what life was like in Victorian times. The mocked-up shop even had some of the very first Cadbury products. After a short film, things then got exciting.

Watching a chocolate demonstration, we got to see how the bars (or individual chocolates like Roses) used to be made – with the tempering, moulding and shelling process – and then we got a taste for ourselves! We all received a pot of delicious melted Cadbury milk chocolate and two toppings of our choice from the selection. I chose Oreo crumb and Fudge; Alfie picked Fudge and mini marshmallows; and Ash went for Oreo crumb and white chocolate Buttons. So so yummy! We also saw the super realistic chocolate Christmas dinner – complete with all the trimmings – that we had seen on TV. Alfie also loved the Jude Bellingham shirt, made from chocolate.

There were also two cool interactive experiences – the Cadbury chocolate quest game, where we had to zap the ingredients with the laser guns as we travelled through the 3D sets… to win more chocolate bars, These were Dairy Milk bars this time. The 4D chocolate adventure was a cinema experience with moving seats and special effects.

And If all that wasn’t enough, there were two ‘Do It Yourself’ experiences with experts. First, we practised our piping skills with some chocolate doodling… or I did, as Alfie didn’t know what to do! Then we had a go at chocolate tempering, using the palette knifes… definitely easier said than done!

My favourite part was the Bournville experience – learning about the history of the village, the Cadbury family heritage and all the memorabilia from over the ears. My grandad used to work at the factory, so it all had some added poignance. I loved that there some items in the cabinets that I recognised from home – including a small Bournville truck and several mugs. There was also the mini Dairy Milk dispenser which I remember a friend having – another thing I always wanted!

That said, visiting the shop was a real highlight too and I have to say, everything was so reasonably priced. There were special offers on individual bars, share-size bars and merchandise. Alfie loaded a basket up (definitely my son) and I was pleasantly surprised to find out he had spent £12 – it looked as though it could have exceeded £60! We also bought the boys cuddly toys (a Freddo frog and Mr Cadbury’s Parrot). I bought a few larger bars, a bulk load of Curly Wurlys and Fudge bars – IYKYK – the Fudge bars were 10 for £1.60, which was a bargain. Of course, even though it was February, the Easter eggs were out.

And just in case I hadn’t indulged enough already, on our way out, we went to the café, I ordered ‘The Works’ white hot chocolate which came topped with marshmallows, whipped cream, a Cadbury’s Flake and a Freddo… and weighed in at a whopping 700-something calories. Believe me, it was well worth it. The café served some amazing drinks (hot chocolates, freakshakes and customisable options), delicious bakes and sweet treats and even a chocolate pizza.

Unfortunately, during our visit, we missed the Freddo magic show which was in the tent next to the play area and on at various intervals throughout the day. But it really was an incredible day out – ending with a quick trip to the play area before the heavens opened. There’s so much to do, see, learn and take in – and it really is fun for all the family. Alfie is already desperate to go back – and he’s not even finished his sweets stash yet! We will definitely return.

Love, Lucy xx