Whatever the time of year, chocolate is irresistible.  Whether it is for seasonal gifts at Christmas, Easter or Valentines Day, Romantic celebrations, or simply something to cheer yourself up, chocolate is always the perfect answer. So where can you find the best chocolate shops in London?  We highlight some of the best.

Artisan du Chocolat is definitely one to try.  With shops in Westbourne Grove and Lower Sloane Street, it is a paradise for anyone who loves chocolate. Easily accessible by tube from hotels near Oxford Street, Artisan du Chocolat produce their own chocolate direct from ground beans rather than buying in couvature (processed chocolate) from other companies. There are even chocolate treats suitable for people on special diets such as chocolates made from buffalo and almond milks, and sugar free dark and milk chocolate.  For something really special you can book a special tutored tasting session exploring everything from cocoa pulp juice to bars, couture chocolates in all kinds of flavours, chocolate ice cream and even chocolate cocktails.  Definitely an occasion to treasure! 

Not too far from elegant Regency House Hotel London is Choccywoccydoodah that sounds somewhat crazy, but it is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.  Located in Fouberts Place, Carnaby Street W1, this is an art and design focused chocolaterie with no limits on the imagination. Take a look at their incredibly fantastical chocolate cakes, or try their chocolate popcorn.  Anyone celebrating Halloween might find the life size skull containing over 3 kilos of solid chocolate irresistible. Popular delights include Lovebirds, Choccywoccyfrogy, Choccywoccysaurus, popcorn lollies and dipped candied orange slices.

Book a stay in hotels near Covent Garden London and head over to Brick Lane in the East End for a visit to Dark Sugars.  You will certainly not be disappointed. The scent of Ghanaian cocoa beans positively draws you in, along with the sight of piles of truffles in every possible taste including unusual ones like Jamaican rum or cardamon and orange.  There are medijool dates dipped in chocolate, likewise ginger and mango.  Worth considering are the uncut truffle shards which can purchased in a pick and mix box to give plenty of variety.  Every product has a vegan variation which makes it ideal when seeking gifts for a special person. 

Strolling along Bond Street’s Royal Arcade, the sight of Charbonnel et Walker is guaranteed to make you want to enter its doors.  This is one of the very few chocolatiers to hold a royal warrant from Her Majesty the Queen which means that these products are often served up on royal occasions.  Charbonnel et Walker have been trading here for over a hundred years and have gained a devoted following among chocoholics.

Rococo Chocolate started life on Kings Road back in 1983.  It has since expanded onto sites in Belgravia and Marylebone.  Highly imaginative, these stores almost resemble a Willy Wonka’s chocolate fantasy.  Just think of a crate of Praline Quail Eggs, a Cat that got the Cream collection, Popping Marc de Champagne Ganache or Bee bars.