Charbonnel et Walker: London's Historic Luxury Chocolatier in the Royal Arcade
Discover 150 years of British chocolate mastery at Charbonnel et Walker, London’s iconic luxury chocolatier in the elegant Royal Arcade.
Charbonnel et Walker, established in 1875, is Britain’s first luxury chocolatier, nestled in London’s elegant Royal Arcade on Old Bond Street. Renowned for its handcrafted chocolates and iconic truffles like the Pink Marc de Champagne, this historic shop combines traditional recipes with exquisite packaging, offering a decadent experience steeped in royal heritage and refined taste.
A brief summary to Charbonnel et Walker
- One, 28 The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, London, W1S 4BT, GB
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Try the iconic Pink Marc de Champagne truffles, a signature delicacy filled with Marc de Champagne ganache.
- Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience in the intimate boutique setting.
- Consider purchasing the Boîte Blanche gift box for a traditional and elegant chocolate selection.
- Explore seasonal collections like the English Rose & Violet creams for a quintessentially British flavor.
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Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central or Jubilee Line to Bond Street station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk through Mayfair’s elegant streets to the Royal Arcade. Frequent services run every 2-5 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London Underground pricing applies.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Old Bond Street, including routes 7, 8, 10, and 73. From the nearest stops, expect a 5-10 minute walk to the Royal Arcade. Buses run frequently during the day with fares payable by contactless or Oyster card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £8-£15. Note that parking is limited in the area, so drop-off is recommended.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Charbonnel et Walker location weather suitability
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Discover more about Charbonnel et Walker
Origins Rooted in Royal Patronage and Parisian Craftsmanship
Founded in 1875, Charbonnel et Walker emerged from a unique partnership between Madame Charbonnel, trained in Parisian chocolate artistry, and Mrs Walker, a skilled creator of exquisite gift boxes. Encouraged by Edward VII, then Prince of Wales, these two women combined their talents to establish what would become Britain’s first luxury chocolatier. Their first shop opened on London’s exclusive Bond Street, setting the stage for a legacy of refined confectionery that continues today in the Royal Arcade on Old Bond Street.Timeless Craftsmanship and Signature Chocolates
Charbonnel et Walker is celebrated for maintaining traditional chocolate-making techniques, using only the finest dark couverture and handcrafting many chocolates to original recipes over a century old. The shop’s offerings include a variety of elegant chocolates enrobed in plain, milk, or white chocolate, often decorated with signature swirls, nuts, or delicate embellishments. Among the most famous are the Pink Marc de Champagne truffles, filled with decadent Marc de Champagne, and the milk and dark sea salt caramel truffles, prized for their rich, balanced flavors.Luxurious Presentation and Gift-Giving Tradition
Presentation is paramount at Charbonnel et Walker. Chocolates are packaged in beautifully crafted boxes, often hand-tied with luxurious satin ribbons, making them perfect gifts. The Boîte Blanche, introduced in 1909, remains a classic choice for those seeking an elegant and traditional chocolate box. This attention to detail reflects the brand’s heritage of serving royalty, aristocracy, and notable figures, including Princess Diana and Sir Alec Guinness.A Historic Locale in London’s Royal Arcade
The shop’s location within the Royal Arcade, one of London’s most elegant shopping arcades, enhances its charm and exclusivity. The arcade itself is a refined setting that complements the luxurious character of Charbonnel et Walker, offering visitors an immersive experience of classic London elegance alongside the finest chocolates.Enduring Legacy and Modern Appeal
While rooted in tradition, Charbonnel et Walker continues to innovate with new truffle flavors and seasonal collections, appealing to both loyal patrons and new generations. Their chocolates are available in select high-end stores worldwide, yet the Old Bond Street shop remains a pilgrimage site for chocolate connoisseurs seeking authentic British luxury confectionery.Cultural Significance and Royal Warrant
From 1970 to 2022, Charbonnel et Walker proudly held a Royal Warrant as official chocolate makers to Queen Elizabeth II, underscoring their status as a cherished British institution. This royal connection adds to the allure and prestige of the brand, making a visit to their shop not just a shopping trip but a journey into the history of British luxury and craftsmanship.Explore the best of what Charbonnel et Walker has to offer
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