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This Easter, discover the history and irresistible appeal of chocolate at the Old Royal Naval College with the launch of their new immersive exhibition, Chocolate House Greenwich. The 18th Century was hot chocolate’s heyday and visitors can now step back in time to discover its key role in the revival of Greenwich and experience a recreation of Grace and Thomas Tosier’s famous ‘royal’ Chocolate House.

From its origins in Central America to becoming the mark of sophistication amongst London’s Enlightenment movement’s movers and shakers, this new exhibition traces the journey of chocolate and its impact on Georgian Greenwich society. Discover the complex history of chocolate and its role at the heart of new cultural and scientific conversations of the time.  

In the early 18th Century, Greenwich became a popular destination for those in search of elegant surroundings, and was a hub for astronomy, science and culture, with Sir Christopher Wren’s iconic architectural project (now the Old Royal Naval College) at its centre. The Tosier Chocolate House, located in what became known as Chocolate Row, became a social space for the leading figures of the day, run by Grace Tosier – which is recreated in the exhibition. Chocolate House Greenwich will reveal the architects, astronomers, scientists – and chocolate makers – that made Greenwich a centre of innovation in Georgian Britian.

Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in this historic Chocolate House, favoured by courtiers and ambassadors of the time. The audio and visual experience, created by Unusual Expo and actorwriter Jonathan Coote, presents the flamboyant proprieter of the original Greenwich Chocolate House Grace Tosier – who ran this social hub while her husband Thomas ran the chocolate kitchen at Hampton Court for King George I. Listen in on the great minds of the day including architect and astronomer Sir Christopher Wren, writer and diarist John Evelyn, the first Astronomer Royal John Flamsteed, and playwright and architect John Vanbrugh.

As part of the exhibition, you will be able to venture into a recreation of the Tosier Chocolate House, which was run by Grace Tosier, and was once located on the edge of Blackheath in what became known as Chocolate Row. 

Programme:
Spirited Decadence: The Art of Chocolate and Gin Tasting - Book Now
Date: Friday 19th April 
Time: 5:30pm to 9:30pm
A London tasting experience like no other, where chocolate connoisseurs and gin enthusiasts unite for an unforgettable event presented in partnership with leading artisan British producers in the historical heart of Greenwich. Find out more. 
* Suitable for ages 18+