Sugar, Skill and Shiftwork: York’s Confectionery Workers
From 26 September 2025 – September 2026
Included in general admission | Book now

York Castle Museum is proud to present a new community exhibition, Sugar, Skill and Shiftwork: York’s Confectionery Workers, celebrating the history of confectionery in York and the people that contributed towards the world-famous industries’ success during its heyday.  

This exhibition shares the voices and experiences of the confectionery community, from factory workers, engineers, designers, packers and others, including personal memories, stories and reflections as they recall working life in York’s sweet factories; such as Rowntree’s, Terry’s and Craven’s. 

In the 100th anniversary of Joseph Rowntree (1836 – 1925), this special exhibition highlights the legacy of confectionery businesses in York and features over 50 objects from York Museums Trust and items loaned by the public. Expect to see photographs and objects including nostalgic confectionery boxes, wrappers and packets, worker’s dress, recipe books and items related to unions and workers’ rights. 

With special thanks to members of the public who contributed their stories, memories, photographs and objects towards the exhibition, and to York Oral History Society who shared their work with us.  

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