Helmsley has been dominated by its castle since the 1120s, and the ruins that still overlook the River Rye saw out one of the longest sieges of the English Civil War.
A castle raised by an abbey's founder
The first castle at Helmsley was built by Walter Espec after 1120, the same man who founded nearby Rievaulx Abbey. It was later rebuilt in stone by the de Ros family, who added a grand hall and kitchen in the late 13th century under William de Ros.
A siege that took months to end
Helmsley Castle was a Royalist stronghold in the First English Civil War. Besieged by Parliamentarian forces from September 1644, it didn't surrender until 22 November that year — a siege lasting two to three months before the garrison gave in.
Sweets still arrive the same way as everywhere else
Helmsley's history is built on castle walls and sieges, not confectionery — so pick 'n' mix, bulk bags and trade cases for the town come by delivery, the same as the rest of North Yorkshire and the UK.
25,000+ customers, and counting
We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Helmsley and the rest of North Yorkshire included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.
Frequently asked questions
Do you deliver sweets to Helmsley?
Yes — the same as the rest of the UK, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.
How long did Helmsley Castle resist the Parliamentarian siege?
It was besieged from September 1644 and held out for two to three months before surrendering on 22 November 1644.
Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Helmsley?
Yes — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Helmsley addresses.
Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.