Charbonnel et Walker (Royal Arcade)

What to expect

Charbonnel et Walker is one of Britain's oldest chocolate makers, started in 1875 by two women, Mrs Walker and Madame Charbonnel, with encouragement from the then Prince of Wales, later Edward VII. The name has stayed on the boxes ever since, and the house is still known for its truffles.

The shop sits in the Royal Arcade, the covered arcade off Old Bond Street. It is a small, quiet place rather than an attraction: you look at the cabinets, choose a box and leave. The range runs from truffles and after-dinner chocolates to drinking chocolate and gift hampers, including flavours such as ginger and orange, mint, sea salt and marc de champagne, plus some vegan options.

Don't miss

• Truffle boxes in the shop cabinets
• The Royal Arcade itself
• Marc de champagne and sea salt truffles
• Drinking chocolate and gift hampers

Tips for your visit

• Come for a box to take home or to give as a gift rather than for a long visit; ten minutes is enough.
• Combine it with a stroll along Old Bond Street and the other shops of the West End, such as Fortnum & Mason.
• Ask staff about flavours before choosing: the range includes alcohol-free and vegan options.