Retro sweets are not longer too difficult to get hold off, but Hope and Greenwood are in a class of their own. Describing themselves as “purveyors of splendid confectionery”, their two London shops are beautifully decorated to recreate the sweet shops of days gone by, but for shoppers elsewhere they also have an online shop.

They sell an impressive selection including jellies, chocolates, toffees sherbet and lollies. Sweets are available in bags or what they describe as “rations” which are traditional-looking jars. With Valentines Day on the horizon, they are offering themed gifts including Love Hearts, mallow hearts and for the more sophisticated tastes, Rose and Violet creams.

Their website is full of humour in its use old-fashioned language and vintage images (see the “Jolly Gifts section in particular) making it a joy to visit. So for online orders and details about the shops, visit Hope and Greenwood.