The Cocoa Yard

"The Cocoa Yard in Nantwich originated during the late 19th-century Temperance Movement, a period marked by efforts to counteract the widespread consumption of alcohol."

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(How ironic...!) In Nantwich, this movement led to the establishment of "cocoa houses" as alternatives to pubs, with the aim of providing social spaces that promoted temperance. "The Three Cups Cocoa House," later renamed "The Victoria Cocoa House," served as a central hub, offering non-alcoholic beverages, reading rooms, and meeting spaces.

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Over the years, the Cocoa Yard's purpose evolved beyond its initial temperance focus. The buildings within the yard were repurposed to serve various civic functions. Historical records also reveal that the site contained residential properties and was used by local tradespeople.

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"Key architectural elements have been retained as a nod to its past. Notably, the tall chimney, a remnant of a former cooper's kiln, stands as a prominent landmark, symbolizing the yard's industrial heritage. The metal archway bearing the words "COCOA YARD" also remains, serving as a visual link to the site's historical identity."

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Found in the centre of The Cocoa Yard, The Millennium Clock is a feature of the new development within the Cocoa Yard. This clock was commissioned to mark the turn of the millennium, and is a piece of public art that adds a contemporary layer to the historical site. It acts as a focal point within the new development, and is a modern contrast to the older features like the chimney and the archway.

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​The Cocoa Yard now stands as a testament to Nantwich's evolving history, showcasing its journey from a centre of social reform to a modern, multi-functional space, while still retaining the physical marks of its origins. Visitors to Nantwich can walk on through in the daytime, and take a peek into several artisanal high street shops. As of late 2024, one of these shops (beginning as a pop-up) became...

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Nantwich Gin & Quality Spirits

4 Cocoa Yard, Nantwich, CW5 5BL

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Please do pop in and browse our shelves. We not only stock our full Nantwich Gin range, but we also collaborate with fantastic U.K. spirits producers with unique stories and products. We'll have the gin samples and plenty of ideas for gifts and goodies at the ready. Come on in and say hello! We are so excited to be a part of the Cocoa Yard and its rich history, and also to join the community of Nantwich's high street shops.